Why Did CDSCO Flag 94 Drug Samples as ‘Not of Standard Quality’ in August?
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Synopsis
In August, the CDSCO flagged 94 drug samples as 'Not of Standard Quality.' This report reveals the intricate regulatory processes involved in drug safety and the ongoing efforts to safeguard public health. Learn more about the implications of these findings and the actions taken against spurious drugs.
Key Takeaways
- 94 drug samples flagged as NSQ in August.
- Testing conducted by Central and State Laboratories.
- NSQ classification based on quality failures.
- Ongoing efforts to remove spurious drugs from the market.
- Transparency maintained through monthly alerts.
New Delhi, Sep 18 (NationPress) The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) on Friday revealed that 94 drug samples tested by both the Central and state regulatory authorities have been categorized as ‘Not of Standard Quality (NSQ)’ in its monthly drug alert for the month of August.
During August, the Central Drugs Laboratories identified 32 drug samples as NSQ, while the State Drugs Testing Laboratories recorded 62 drug samples as NSQ.
In line with routine regulatory surveillance, the list of Not of Standard Quality (NSQ) and spurious drugs is published on the CDSCO portal monthly.
“In August 2025, the Central Drugs Laboratories noted 32 drug samples as Not of Standard Quality (NSQ), and the State Drugs Testing Laboratories highlighted 62 drug samples as NSQ,” the alert stated.
The classification of drug samples as NSQ is based on the failure of the sample to meet specified quality criteria.
This failure pertains specifically to the tested batch of drug products and does not imply that other products in the market are of concern, according to health officials.
Moreover, in August, “three drug samples from Bihar were flagged as spurious, produced by unauthorized manufacturers under the brand name of another company. Investigations are ongoing, and appropriate actions will be enforced as per the Act & Rules,” they noted.
This proactive measure to identify NSQ and spurious medicines is regularly executed in collaboration with state regulators to ensure the removal of these drugs from the market.
In July, the CDSCO identified 143 drug samples tested by Central and state regulatory authorities as NSQ.
In July, the Central drug labs found 46 drug samples as NSQ, while the state drug testing labs reported 97 drug samples as NSQ.
Point of View
We remain committed to delivering unbiased news. The recent identification of 94 drug samples as NSQ by CDSCO underscores the importance of vigilance in public health. Our role is to inform the public while encouraging regulatory bodies to enhance their oversight in ensuring drug safety.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does NSQ stand for?
NSQ stands for 'Not of Standard Quality,' indicating that a drug sample does not meet the required quality standards.
How many drug samples were flagged as NSQ in August?
In August, the CDSCO flagged a total of 94 drug samples as Not of Standard Quality.
What actions are taken against spurious drugs?
When spurious drugs are identified, investigations are initiated, and actions are taken as per the relevant laws and regulations.
Who conducts the testing of drug samples?
Drug samples are tested by both Central and State Drugs Testing Laboratories.
Where can I find the list of NSQ drugs?
The list of Not of Standard Quality drugs is published monthly on the CDSCO's official portal.
