DCA seizes illegal heart stimulant drugs sold to bodybuilders in Hyderabad

Hyderabad: The Drugs Control Administration (DCA) of Telangana has cracked down on the illegal stocking and sale of Mephentermine Sulphate injections in Asifnagar and Karwan, Hyderabad. The substance, a cardiac stimulant, was being sold at exorbitant prices to gym-goers for abuse in bodybuilding. Following credible information, Hyderabad Zone officials conducted raids on September 27 and 28, seizing 210 vials valued at approximately Rs. 65,000.

The illicit injections were reportedly supplied by Atif Khan of Asifnagar and Ajay Singh of Karwan. Mephentermine is primarily used to manage hypotension during surgical procedures but has been misused to enhance physical performance. The abuse of this drug can lead to severe health risks, including psychosis and cardiovascular disorders.

G. Prasad, Assistant Director, Ranga Reddy; T. Rajamouli, Assistant Director, Hyderabad; and other DCA officials were involved in the operation. The illegal sale and distribution of such substances violate the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, with offenders facing potential imprisonment of up to five years.

Counterfeit nutraceuticals seized in Secunderabad

In a separate incident, the DCA also seized counterfeit Ferrigen-XT and Proferron XT tablets, falsely marketed as food products or nutraceuticals, in Bandimet, Secunderabad, and Khammam, respectively. Both products, manufactured under a food license, were found to contain ingredients classified as drugs under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.

The Ferrigen-XT tablets were linked to Maxtra Laboratories, while the Proferron XT tablets were associated with Macsol Lifescience. These products were not manufactured according to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and did not meet the quality standards of the Indian Pharmacopoeia, posing significant health risks to consumers.

DCA officials, including M. Surendranath and Ch. Anil Kumar conducted these raids, highlighting that manufacturing and selling drugs without a valid license is a serious offense punishable by law.

The public is encouraged to report any suspicious drug manufacturing activities to the DCA’s toll-free number, 1800-599-6969, which is available from 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on working days.