Ayush Ministry Cracks Down on Misleading Drug Ads

The Union Ayush ministry has declared it illegal to advertise Ayurvedic, Siddha, Unani, and Homeopathy drugs claiming miracle cures. Such ads can mislead and endanger public health. The ministry emphasizes that the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act prohibits such advertisements. Violations incur penalties, with use mandated under medical supervision.

The Union Ayush ministry has taken a firm stand against advertisements touting 'miraculous' cures through Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and Homeopathy drugs. These claims, the ministry asserts, pose a risk to public health by offering unverified promises.

In a public notice, the ministry clarified that it neither endorses any Ayurvedic, Siddha, Unani, and Homeopathic (ASU&H) companies, nor approves any of their medicines for sale. The authority to grant manufacturing licenses lies with state and Union Territory Licensing Authorities.

Under the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954, such advertisements are strictly prohibited and subject to penalties. The ministry advises that ASU drugs be used only under medical supervision, with cautionary labels mandated on such products.