IMA issues guidelines on use of painkillers

The Indian Medical Association has issued a set of guidelines on prescription and use of painkillers and non-steroidal drugs.

The association said the guidelines were an attempt at clearing common misconceptions about their use, safety and efficacy.

“The government (Centre) is envisaging that AYUSH doctors be given the right to prescribe over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol and aspirin. However, the same may not be in public interest as they have little knowledge about when not to use these drugs,” said IMA president A. Marthanda Pillai.

Pointing out that improper use of drugs such as asprin, paracetamol, nimesulide and ibuprofen could affect the liver, kidney and heart, Dr. Pillai said, “It is incorrect to classify such drugs as safe or unsafe. If used for the right duration they are effective and provide relief.” The Union Health Ministry has decied to allow AYUSH doctors to not only prescribe allopathic medicines but also carry out some allopathic procedures.

The draft of the National Health Policy 2015, available in the public domain, mentions creation “of a mandatory bridge course that gives (AYUSH practitioners) at least the competencies of mid-level care provide with respect to allopathic remedies.” In an effort at mainstreaming the policy, it has sought to train AYUSH professionals “to help them perform national programme functions.”

Dr. Pillai said: “Our stand is very clear that as per the Medical Council of India Act only allopathic practitioners can prescribe modern medicine. We have represented to the government that medical termination of pregnancy can be done only by qualified, trained professionals as a failed MTP can lead to imprisonment of the doctor.”