Disprin, the notorious drug, was primarily one of the best pain relievers used by millions of people in India. However, the Delhi government in 2015 proscribed the over-the-counter sales of Disprin as it was identified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Now, as per logic, anyone without a medical prescription cannot buy this drug along with other NSAIDs such as Aspirin, Brufen, and Voveran. Uncover the truth of what really happened!
Disprin and its manufacturer
The story that I am about to uncover in front of you has a lot of twists and turns and facts that the general public is unaware of. That Disprin, the infamous pain reliever, is NOT banned in India. The only thing that was forbidden was its over-the-counter sales, as the aspirin-based formulation of Disprin had significant side effects causing gastrointestinal problems, bleeding risks, Reye syndrome, and hypersensitivity.
The Maharashtra FDA (Food and Drug Administration) was the first to recognize these issues and ban its incidental sales within the state. Later, in 2015, other states, including the capital, Delhi, were found banning its over-the-counter sales by also making it a prescribed drug that can be sold only as per the recommendations of a physician or a doctor.
After the regulations were imposed, the parent company or the manufacturer of Disprin, Reckitt Benckiser, removed the word Aspirin from the drug and added Paracetamol as the new catchphrase. Yet it did not make any difference as Aspirin was still the primary component of the drug, which was responsible for causing significant side effects and major health complications, as discussed below. The Delhi government condemned this act by implicating the name change as a violation of law, which certainly did not have a long-term effect. You can always visit Amazon and buy Disprin tablets containing high concentrations of Aspirin.
The law of the land seems to have failed to restrict Amazon and other online pharmacies from selling Disprin as they tend to have different regulations than other physical stores. The turn of events shows the inefficiencies surrounding India’s legal system. What’s the use of such formalities if a drug, which is terminated for over-the-counter sales, is still readily available where consumers like me? You can always find it in online stores!
Reasons why the over-the-counter sales of Disprin was banned in India
There is much to uncover and unpack to effectively know why Aspirin is harmful and why Disprin containing high concentrations was banned in India. So let’s focus on a few of these issues to know their severity and their impact on human well-being –
Possible risks of Reye’s syndrome
Reye’s syndrome is considered a scarce and severe condition that affects the liver and brain and is common in children and teenagers. The syndrome is triggered when Aspirin is used to treat viral infectious diseases like influenza B or dengue in children, which sometimes may lead to severe complications and death.
On average, the fatality rate of Reye’s syndrome is 21%. Still, the rate can significantly vary, considering the stage of the ailment. Generally, the rate ranges from 2% to 80%, depending on Stage I, Stage IV, or V, respectively. However, the condition is sporadic, and the number of recorded cases of Reye’s syndrome has sharply fallen as Aspirin has been responsible for causing other severe viral diseases such as chickenpox and influenza.
Gastrointestinal Risks
Aspirin can severely affect the stomach lining by influencing cyclooxygenase inhibition and causing salicylate toxicity. Cyclooxygenase inhibition is primarily responsible for making the stomach lining vulnerable to serious injury by reducing bicarbonate and mucus secretion. It is further responsible for altering the physiochemical nature of mucus, allowing specific pathogens and irritants to take action without any barrier or restriction. Aspirin also degrades the protective lining in the intestines, which makes digestion difficult and makes the stomach vulnerable to symptoms like chronic pain and discomfort.
Disprin containing a high concentration of Aspirin is responsible for elevating the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and gastric ulcers whenever it is used in high doses and after prolonged unsupervised use. The mucous is a protective barrier in the stomach, primarily made of water, electrolytes, and lipids. However, mucous remains unproduced when Aspirin inhibits releasing COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes.
Frequent Bleeding and Blood Thinning
Aspirin is considered a blood thinner, which inhibits platelet aggregation. It is a process responsible for causing blood clots, which prevents heart attacks and strokes in some instances but significantly enhances the risks of blood colt. The problem tends to be severe in people who have gone through a recent surgery due to injuries or accidents, causing significant bleeding disorders.
Allergic reactions and Respiratory issues
Disprin-containing Aspirin is also considered a drug responsible for causing allergic reactions and severe respiratory issues such as asthma. It is because sometimes the body treats it as a foreign invader and releases antibodies to eliminate it. When someone retakes Aspirin, antibodies attach to the drug to cause severe allergic reactions. Primarily, people with severe health conditions like asthma and chronic sinusitis are the ones allergic to Aspirin. The common symptoms of Aspirin-induced allergic reactions include flushing, itchy rashes, runny nose, and shortness of breath. The time required for these allergies to take action is approximately 1 hour, depending on the physiology and current health condition of the individual consuming Aspirin.
Consumers need to be aware of the medicine levels of Aspirin as it causes many issues and symptoms that have been primarily discussed. It is simultaneously essential for anyone buying drugs like Disprin containing Aspirin to consult a doctor or a physician first to avoid any unforeseen reactions and consequences. It is advised to take small doses of Disprin first to see if the body can tolerate its harsh symptoms. If not, then you must always prefer a doctor and ask for their guidance to ensure proper treatment and recovery of ailments influencing you to consume Disprin in the first place.
The Fundamental Cause
Apart from all these factors, the most significant reason Disprin was banned is the people who consumed it. In India, medicinal drug consumers sometimes consider themselves physicians and doctors by ignoring the valuable inputs that a 5.5-year MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Medicine) degree holder has to offer. For example, X is a person facing severe headaches. Instead of consulting a physician, X goes to a pharmacy shop to consult the store owner with limited qualifications. Now, the shop owner recommends Disprin without knowing X’s current health condition or underlying health complications. X is now pleased and secure.
Little did X know that he already had underlying digestion issues, which turned X into a mess, questioning what went wrong? Don’t be X and be someone who trusts the doctors over unqualified shop owners who will sell you anything for profit. Moreover, investing a moderate amount to get adequate treatment is crucial rather than investing less now and paying more when severe reactions occur. Simply put, consulting a doctor will save you money, which you will lose significantly if your health conditions deteriorate. You will no longer be the person you never thought you were.
FAQ
1. Why was Disprin banned for over-the-counter sales in India?
Disprin, containing aspirin, was banned from over-the-counter sales in India due to health risks associated with its use, especially when taken without medical supervision. These risks include gastrointestinal issues, bleeding complications, Reye’s syndrome in children, and potential allergic reactions.
2. Is Disprin entirely banned in India?
No, Disprin is not entirely banned in India. However, it has been regulated to prevent over-the-counter sales. Now, it can only be purchased with a prescription from a doctor to ensure safe use and avoid potential health risks.
3. Why does aspirin cause gastrointestinal issues?
Aspirin works by inhibiting enzymes called COX-1 and COX-2, which help protect the stomach lining. This inhibition reduces the production of protective mucus and bicarbonate in the stomach, increasing the risk of gastric ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, and stomach discomfort, especially with prolonged use.
4. What is Reye’s syndrome, and how is it related to aspirin?
Reye’s syndrome is a rare but serious condition that can affect the liver and brain, primarily in children recovering from viral infections. Aspirin has been linked to triggering Reye’s syndrome, which is why health authorities discourage its use in children with viral infections.
5. How does aspirin in Disprin act as a blood thinner?
Aspirin prevents blood clots by inhibiting platelet aggregation, which helps reduce the risk of heart attacks or strokes in certain cases. However, this blood-thinning effect can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in individuals with recent injuries or surgeries.
6. Why was there controversy over Disprin being available on Amazon despite the ban on over-the-counter sales?
Although Disprin was banned from over-the-counter sales in physical stores, it has been available on online platforms like Amazon, which are governed by different regulations. This raised concerns about the enforcement of drug sale regulations and the potential health risks for consumers.
7. What precautions should I take if I am prescribed Disprin?
If prescribed Disprin, consult with your doctor about dosage and potential side effects. Start with a small dose to test for tolerance, and avoid self-medicating, especially if you have a history of gastrointestinal issues, allergies, or recent surgeries. Always consult a doctor if you experience any adverse reactions.
