Nepal revokes licenses for 47 immunosuppressant brands, sparking medical concerns

The Department of Drug Administration announced the revocation of licences for 47 immunosuppressant brands, arguing that the drugs may pose safety and quality issues, including potential cross-contamination at facilities lacking dedicated production lines. Of the banned products, 33 are produced in Nepal, 13 in India and one in Bangladesh. Doctors at Bir Hospital and Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital warned that the decision could jeopardise the steady supply of life-saving medication for more than 4,000 kidney-transplant patients and many others with autoimmune diseases.

The agency clarified that stocks already imported or on the market may still be sold, but manufacturers failed to submit required risk assessments. Specialists criticized the lack of consultation with medical experts before the ban, noting that many of the drugs had been considered safe until recently. They cautioned patients against stopping or switching medicines without professional guidance, as interruption can lead to organ rejection and the need for dialysis or another transplant.