The Directorate General of Central Health Services (DGCHS) has instructed Central government hospitals to prescribe medicines only by their generic names, according to an official direction issued in Chennai.
The National Medical Commission (NMC) had released ethical guidelines for registered doctors about three years ago, making it a key requirement to prescribe only generic-name medicines and warning of legal action for violations.
The move had earlier drawn objections from multiple quarters, with concerns raised over how the quality of generic medicines would be ensured. Critics argued that smaller manufacturers may not match the production standards of well-known pharmaceutical companies.
The Indian Medical Association had cautioned that poor-quality medicines could lead to delays in recovery and possible side effects, and urged that quality regulation be strengthened before enforcing such rules. The NMC later said the provision would be kept on hold temporarily.
Now, citing the 2023 guidance, the DGCHS has reiterated that Central government hospitals should follow the generic-only prescribing requirement.
