What you must never ever consume medicines with a red line on the strip without doctor's prescription. Where: In India. When:. The government mandates red vertical lines on prescription-only drugs to distinguish them from over-the-counter medicines. These red-marked drugs fall under Schedule H or H1 category and require a doctor's prescription. Common examples include antibiotics, steroids, and certain painkillers. Taking these without medical supervision can lead to drug resistance, mask health issues, or cause dangerous interactions. Misuse may result in side effects like allergic reactions, hormonal imbalances, and mood changes. Continuous misuse can cause serious health complications, including antibiotic resistance and organ damage. Dr Jagadish Hiremath, a public health expert, warns against self-medication and debunks myths about reusing previously prescribed medicines or increasing dosage for faster relief. (Updated 14 Oct 2025, 16:13 IST; source: link)
Key Points
- What you must never ever consume medicines with a red line on the strip without doctor 's prescription
- Where: In India
- When: