Gyms in Telangana caught selling steroids, cardiac drugs illegally: DCA

The Drugs Control Administration, Telangana, has found gyms and fitness centres illegally selling steroids and stimulants like Mephentermine for bodybuilding. The DCA warned that such misuse can cause severe health issues and urged public vigilance through its toll-free complaint number

Hyderabad: Certain gyms and fitness centres were found to be illegally procuring and selling anabolic-androgenic steroids and cardiac stimulants like Mephentermine injection to gym-goers, who were misusing these prescription medicines for bodybuilding purposes, the Drugs Control Administration, Telangana, has said.

Abuse of these prescription medicines for bodybuilding purposes can lead to serious adverse effects, including cardiovascular disorders, hormonal imbalance, psychiatric disturbances, and, in some cases, even death, the DCA said in a press release.

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The DCA reminded the licensees that anabolic androgenic steroids and cardiac stimulants should be sold only against a valid prescription issued by a Registered Medical Practitioner. Any illegal sale, diversion, or distribution of such prescription medicines for non-therapeutic or abusive purposes constitutes a serious violation of the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and would be dealt with strictly.

Medical shops were advised to exercise vigilance in dispensing such medicines and to maintain proper prescription records as mandated under the Rules.

The public can report complaints regarding illegal activities related to medicines, as well as any other suspected manufacturing activities concerning drugs, including narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, to the toll-free number 1800-599-6969, from 10.30 am to 5 pm on all working days.