BS RAWAT
NEW DELHI: The Indian Medical  Association (IMA) has sought a reconsideration of the Government’s policy banning Oxytocin production in private facilities. IMA has raised this demand on behalf of young mothers and the obstetricians saying that thousands of lives can be saved if the Government pulls back from its current position.

The doctors body has said that the Government is responsible for shortages in Oxytocin supply and the resultant unfortunate consequences.

The Union Health Ministry imposed a ban on the retail sale and private manufacture of oxytocin last year.

Dr. Santanu Sen, national president, IMA, said, ‘’The misuse could be prevented through strict control in sale and the end use of the drug.’’

He said, "Most of the veterinary use comes from illegal import of Oxytocin from neighbouring countries. Restricting the manufacture instead of the end use is illogical.’’

Dr R.V. Asokan, Honorary Secretary General,  IMA, told DTMT, ‘’ We have no objection to Karnataka Antibiotics and Pharmaceuticals Limited (KAPL) manufacturing Oxytocin exclusively for veterinary use, if indicated, but curtailing the manufacture of a life saving drug will create artificial bottlenecks and shortages.’’

He asked if a single public sector company would be competent to supply to the oxytocin needs of the entire nation.

The drug, a synthetic version of a human hormone, is a life-saver for women during child birth. It is the only drug available to control bleeding after delivery.  It is quite natural that doctors, especially obstetricians, are concerned over supply bottlenecks of this essential drug.