Why in news: The Union Government has banned the manufacture, sale, and distribution of oral formulations of Nimesulide above 100 mg with immediate effect, citing health risks. The move is under Section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
What is Nimesulide?
- Class: Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
- Mechanism of Action: Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis, reducing pain and inflammation.
- Therapeutic Use: Short-term management of acute pain and fever.
- Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, elevated liver enzymes.
- Known Risk: Hepatotoxicity, especially at higher doses or prolonged use.
Reason for Ban
- Oral formulations above 100 mg are considered harmful to human health, particularly liver-related complications.
- Safer alternative analgesics are available in the market.
- Legal Basis: Section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 empowers the government to prohibit drugs harmful to public health.
IAS-2026 - OPTIONAL / GEOGRAPHY / PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION / SOCIOLOGY / ANTHROPOLOGY / ORIENTATION ON 03 & 04-10-2025 
