Wed Dec 31 17:24:30 UTC 2025: News Article:
Tamil Nadu Pharmacies Display QR Codes for Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting
CHENNAI, December 31, 2025 – Pharmacies across Tamil Nadu are now displaying QR codes enabling the public to easily report suspected adverse drug reactions, following instructions from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). The initiative, spearheaded by the Tamil Nadu Chemists and Druggists Association (TNCDA), involves equipping approximately 42,000 chemist shops with the codes.
The CDSCO’s directive to State Licensing Authorities and Union Territory Drug Licensing Authorities aims to strengthen patient safety and pharmacovigilance nationwide. In addition to the QR code, a toll-free number for the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (1800-180-3024) is also being prominently displayed.
According to the TNCDA, Tamil Nadu is the first state to implement the QR code system. Scanning the code allows consumers to directly report any experienced or suspected adverse effects of medications, bolstering pharmacovigilance practices.
While praising the new initiative, S.A. Ramesh, president of TNCDA, expressed concern over the unchecked online sale of medicines, particularly antibiotics and psychotropic drugs. He warned that easy online access to such drugs hinders the reporting of complaints, including side effects, and exacerbates the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), an issue the TNCDA has been actively raising awareness about.
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