### Urgent Health Measure: India Bans Nimesulide Oral Doses Above 100 mg In a significant public health decision, the Indian government has imposed a nationwide ban on the manufacture, sale, and distribution of oral formulations of the painkiller Nimesulide that exceed 100 mg. This action follows recommendations from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and aims to mitigate serious health risks associated with higher doses of the drug, particularly concerning liver and kidney damage. The ban is also intended to protect wildlife, specifically vultures, from harmful exposure to veterinary uses of Nimesulide [https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2026/jan/01/nimesulide-oral-doses-above-100-mg-banned-over-safety-concern, https://telanganatoday.com/union-health-ministry-bans-nimesulide-above-100-mg-to-prevent-health-risks-and-environmental-damage]. ### Structure of the Ban and Its Implications 1. **Scope of the Ban**: - The ban specifically targets oral formulations of Nimesulide exceeding 100 mg, while lower doses and non-oral forms (like gels and creams) remain unaffected [https://www.latestly.com/agency-news/india-news-nimesulide-banned-centre-prohibits-sale-of-oral-painkiller-doses-above-100-mg-in-immediate-release-form-7258619.html]. 2. **Health Risks Identified**: - The ICMR has highlighted potential health risks, including liver toxicity and kidney impairment, particularly in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and those with pre-existing health conditions [https://indianexpress.com/article/health-wellness/health-ministry-bans-nimesulide-oral-tablets-syrups-100-mg-removes-cough-syrups-otc-sales-10448496]. 3. **Environmental Concerns**: - The ban also addresses environmental issues, particularly the impact of veterinary use of Nimesulide on vulture populations, which have been adversely affected by the drug [https://telanganatoday.com/union-health-ministry-bans-nimesulide-above-100-mg-to-prevent-health-risks-and-environmental-damage]. 4. **Regulatory Framework**: - The prohibition is enforced under Section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, following expert consultations with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) [https://ehealth.eletsonline.com/2025/12/health-ministry-prohibits-immediate-release-nimesulide-oral-doses-above-100-mg-citing-safety-risks]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Health Risks**: - The ICMR's recommendations are based on extensive research indicating that Nimesulide can lead to severe liver damage, especially in high doses. This has prompted the government to act decisively to protect public health [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/health/3746018-nimesulide-ban-protecting-public-health]. - **Environmental Impact**: - The use of Nimesulide in veterinary medicine has been linked to the decline of vulture populations in India, which are critical to the ecosystem [https://telanganatoday.com/union-health-ministry-bans-nimesulide-above-100-mg-to-prevent-health-risks-and-environmental-damage]. ### Conclusion: A Necessary Step for Public Health The Indian government's ban on Nimesulide oral formulations above 100 mg is a crucial step towards safeguarding public health and the environment. 1. **Immediate Action**: The ban is effective immediately, reflecting the urgency of addressing the identified health risks. 2. **Focus on Vulnerable Groups**: Special attention is given to protecting vulnerable populations from the adverse effects of high-dose Nimesulide. 3. **Environmental Protection**: The decision also aims to mitigate environmental damage, particularly to wildlife. In summary, this ban not only addresses pressing health concerns but also demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship, marking a significant public health initiative in India [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/headlines/3746437-india-bans-high-dose-nimesulide-to-safeguard-public-health].