![]() For example, the packaging is defined OTC drugs have to be sold in the original packaging so that the consumer can easily identify the drug. Importantly, there are rules and regulations for that specific category. The consequence of having it as OTC is that people will be able to buy these two medicines at any shop and not only from licensed chemists. It is evident that in order to promote wide use of zinc and ORS these should be available as over the counter (OTC) drugs. Why does this state of affairs persist? We explore some of the regulatory and other issues which prevent access to zinc in India. The lack of availability in public health facilities points to the fact that zinc was probably not procured at all, or if procured it was not done in sufficient quantities. Only 34.2% of children with diarrhea in India receive ORS and a miniscule 1% are prescribed zinc during an episode of diarrhea. Yet, unfortunately, it is hardly available in the public and private health facilities in India. Recognizing the importance of this, the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) has included ORS and zinc in the list of medicines to be available at the subcenters. More importantly, there are no other alternatives to this treatment. The treatment is effective, safe, cheap, and easily tolerated by children. If given early on during an episode of diarrhea it would help save 50% of children who would otherwise die. The evidence for the use of ORS and zinc as first-line treatment in children in resource limited countries is overwhelming. The Integrated Management of Neonatal and Childhood Illness (IMNCI) advocates the use of these two drugs in the treatment of acute diarrhea. Zinc was included in the National Programme for the treatment of Diarrhea in 2007. ![]() Oral rehydration solution (ORS) and oral zinc have been recommended for the treatment of acute diarrhea in children by the Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP) National task force for use of ORS and zinc in the year 2003 and later endorsed in 2006. ![]() Diarrhea kills nearly 650 children below the age of 5 years each day in India.
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