NEW DELHI: The country's top drug advisory board has backed the health ministry 's decision to ban 343 fixed-dose combinations, some of which were commonly used drugs used in treatment of cold and cough. However, it has recommended lifting the ban on six other products and instead allowing them with certain restrictions for specific indications or quantities.

The report was prepared by a sub-committee of the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB). "The DTAB has accepted the recommendations made in the report and will send it to the health ministry," said a senior official. Once the suggestions are approved by the ministry, it will notify a fresh order.

In March 2016, the Centre had banned several fixed dose combination drugs, including some popular cough syrups based on codeine , saying they involved health risks and safer alternatives were available.

