Supreme Court criticises centre and DCGI over expired COVID-era approvals for antifungal drug

The Supreme Court has reportedly criticised the Centre and the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) for delays in taking action against pharmaceutical companies allegedly continuing to manufacture and sell Liposomal Amphotericin B under expired emergency permissions granted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The permissions were introduced in 2021 to address shortages of the drug, used to treat mucormycosis or black fungus. The case raises questions about the DCGI’s enforcement of licence conditions and the consequences of continued manufacturing after emergency permissions expire. The Court has not yet ordered a ban or recall; the final directions are awaited.