Prices Inflated for Flu Anti-Viral Drugs

Some pharmacies in Chennai are selling Tamiflu (oseltamivir), the anti-viral medication used to treat H1N1 flu, at inflated prices, say reports.   While the state government has permitted only a few private pharmacies to sell the medication, a handful of unauthorized pharmacies are making a quick buck by selling the anti-viral medication at exorbitant rates.

A senior official in the directorate of public health said they had received information of some pharmacies hoarding H1N1 drugs and selling it at a higher price. While 10 capsules of the drug cost around `200, officials said they have received complaints that some pharmacies are `600 for a strip of 10 capsules. The tablets are supplied free of cost at government hospitals.

Many people have been taking the drug, instead of approaching a doctor for treatment for a cold or a fever. Medical experts said there was no need to consume the drug if not prescribed by a physician.

"Only pharmacies that have the schedule X license are permitted to sell Tamiflu. It is possible that these unauthorized pharmacies are procuring the drug directly from the manufacturers and selling it illegally to the public," said a senior health official.



Source-Medindia