By Chandan Singh | Page 3 News Worldwide | New Delhi
Health Department launches strict enforcement drive after temperature-sensitive injections were allegedly stored at room temperature; recall process initiated
New Delhi: Acting on the directions of Delhi Health Minister Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh, the Delhi Government’s Drugs Control Department has seized 31,700 Oxytocin Injection IP 5 IU/ml vials from a pharmaceutical premises in Patparganj Industrial Area after they were allegedly found stored at room temperature instead of the mandatory 2°C to 8°C cold chain.
The inspection, conducted under a special enforcement drive, revealed that the temperature-sensitive stock had reportedly remained outside the prescribed storage conditions since its procurement in May 2026, raising concerns over the medicine’s potency and patient safety.
Officials observed that the stock was not maintained in compliance with Rule 65(17) of the Drugs Rules, 1945. Although a functional refrigerator was available at the premises, no medicines requiring cold storage were found inside.
Considering the critical therapeutic use of oxytocin and the potential loss of efficacy due to improper storage, the department seized the entire stock under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 to prevent any possible risk to public health.
Authorities have also collected details of supplies made from the affected batch to facilitate stop-sale and recall measures, wherever required. Legal proceedings have been initiated against the concerned establishment.
“The Delhi Government has zero tolerance for any compromise with the quality, safety and efficacy of medicines. Patient safety will remain our highest priority,” Health Minister Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh said.
The Minister added that inspections and surprise enforcement drives will be intensified across the National Capital, warning that any violation of statutory storage and quality norms involving medicines will invite strict legal action.
