The government is planning to ban the anti-obesity drug ‘Rimonabant’ in India as the studies show that it has serious psychiatric side effects, including the suicidal tendencies. The patented drug from global pharmaceutical giant Sanofi Aventis, was launched in Europe in 2006, and is considered a potential blockbuster by many.

Many Indian companies also manufacture its generic version, including Sun Pharmaceutical, Torrent Pharmaceuticals, Zydus Cadila and Ranbaxy. Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) Surinder Singh told PTI: “The matter of banning the drug Rimonabant was discussed in Drug Coordination Committee's meeting held on December 10 and again it will be discussed in Drug Technical Advisory Body (DTAB) meeting scheduled on Monday.” Singh said that once DTAB gives a clear signal about banning the drug, the health ministry will issue a notification in this regard.

Following the European drug regulator’s recommendation, the National Health Regulator had issued a notification under which the manufacturers were asked to stop producing Rimonabant immediately. He added, “We have also communicated the same to all state licensing authorities and they have been asked to make sure that the drug is not produced in the country.” Singh said, “However, it would take some time before the issue gets cleared as we have not yet recommended a callback of the drug.”