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Telangana issues advisory to retail, wholesale medical shops amid prescription medicines misuse in gyms

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, October 27th 2025 at 7:04 GMT by Daily
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Telangana Issues Advisory to Medical Shops to Curb Prescription‑Medicine Misuse in Gyms

In a decisive move to protect public health and curb the growing misuse of prescription drugs in fitness establishments, the Telangana state government has issued a comprehensive advisory to all retail and wholesale medical shops. The directive, announced earlier this month, specifically targets the sale of anabolic steroids, performance‑enhancing agents, and other prescription medicines that have become popular among gym goers seeking rapid muscle gains or enhanced athletic performance. It underscores the state's commitment to enforcing pharmaceutical regulations and preventing the illicit distribution of controlled substances.

Why the Advisory?

Telangana’s gym‑culture has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, with more fitness centers popping up in urban and semi‑urban areas. Alongside the boom in physical fitness has been a concerning trend: the illicit use of prescription drugs—particularly anabolic steroids—by individuals who believe these substances can help them achieve a leaner, more muscular physique more quickly. Reports from local health departments and police units have highlighted that a significant proportion of gym‑related health complaints involve drug misuse, including cases of steroid‑induced liver damage, hypertension, and psychological disturbances.

The advisory comes in response to data collected by the Telangana Department of Health and Family Welfare, which identified a spike in the number of prescriptions for steroids and other performance‑enhancing drugs. It also reflects an urgent public‑health priority: the need to ensure that pharmacies adhere strictly to the Pharmacy Act and do not become unwitting suppliers of drugs that can jeopardize the well‑being of their customers.

Key Provisions of the Advisory

1. Strict Prescription Verification
   Medical shops are instructed to verify every prescription before dispensing any medication, especially those classified as controlled substances under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. Pharmacies must check the authenticity of the prescribing doctor’s registration, the validity of the prescription, and ensure that no drugs are sold without a proper prescription.

2. Record‑Keeping and Audit Trails
   The advisory mandates that pharmacies maintain detailed logs of all prescription sales, especially those involving anabolic steroids, diuretics, and growth‑hormone preparations. These logs will be subject to random audits by the state’s Drug Control Board.

3. Immediate Reporting of Suspicious Activities
   Retailers are required to report any suspicious behavior—such as repeated purchases of the same drug without a legitimate medical need—to the Drug Control Board within 48 hours. Failure to report can result in penalties.

4. Training and Awareness
   All pharmacy staff must undergo a mandatory training program focused on the legal implications of selling controlled substances and the health risks associated with steroid misuse. The Department of Pharmacy Education will oversee the curriculum and deliver the training sessions.

5. Penalties for Non‑Compliance
   The advisory sets out a graduated penalty structure. Minor infractions may result in warnings or fines, while repeated violations can lead to temporary suspension or permanent revocation of the pharmacy license. Additionally, pharmacists who facilitate the sale of prescription drugs without a proper prescription may face criminal charges under the Narcotics Control Act.

Supporting Government Measures

The advisory is part of a broader, multi‑agency initiative launched by the Telangana government to regulate gym operations and prevent drug misuse. Recent actions include:

• Gym Licensing Overhaul
  The state has tightened its gym licensing process, now requiring gyms to demonstrate compliance with health and safety guidelines and to report any drug‑related incidents.

• Public Awareness Campaigns
  Through collaboration with local NGOs and community health workers, the state has launched campaigns aimed at educating gym patrons about the dangers of steroid misuse, the legal ramifications, and the availability of legal, safe supplements.

• Strengthened Enforcement
  Law enforcement agencies, in coordination with the State Drug Control Board, have increased inspections of both gyms and pharmacies. Several pharmacies have already been fined for failing to adhere to prescription protocols.

What Does the Advisory Mean for Pharmacy Owners?

Pharmacy owners must read the advisory carefully and adjust their operational protocols accordingly. This includes:

• Installing clear “no prescription” signage.
• Updating point‑of‑sale software to flag controlled substances and require prescription verification before dispensing.
• Conducting quarterly internal compliance checks.
• Engaging with local pharmacists’ associations to stay updated on best practices and legal requirements.

Owners who fail to implement these changes risk significant financial penalties and potential closure of their businesses.

Looking Ahead

The Telangana government’s directive underscores a growing awareness that the health of its citizens extends beyond the visible walls of hospitals and clinics. By targeting pharmacies—often the first line of contact for prescription medicines—the state is attempting to intercept potential misuse before it takes root in the wider community. The advisory also sends a clear message: the legal and ethical responsibilities of medical professionals and pharmacy retailers are non‑negotiable in the fight against drug abuse.

As the state rolls out enforcement mechanisms, stakeholders in the pharmaceutical and fitness industries are urged to collaborate, share best practices, and uphold the highest standards of professional conduct. The collective effort promises not only to protect individual health but also to foster a culture of responsibility and transparency across Telangana’s growing fitness landscape.