Fake AI-generated prescriptions are fueling illegal online drug sales: Chemists warn PM Modi of 'grave threat to public health'

The All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) has flagged what it describes as a “grave threat to public health” arising from the misuse of artificial intelligence to generate fake medical prescriptions. The organisation has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging urgent regulatory action.

The move follows a Times of India (TOI) investigation exposing how AI platforms can be used to create fabricated prescriptions, enabling the online purchase of antibiotics, psychotropic drugs, and other restricted medicines with minimal verification.

AI Prescriptions Bypass Safeguards, Chemists Warn

In its letter, the national chemists’ body alleged that certain online platforms are accepting AI-generated prescriptions, which often carry fabricated hospital names and details. This practice allows the unlawful sale of opioids, Schedule H and Schedule X medicines, and even banned drugs.


“On online platforms, it is practically impossible to differentiate between genuine prescriptions and AI-generated fake documents,” the AIOCD stated. In contrast, offline chemists maintain human oversight, verifying prescriptions physically and interacting with patients to ensure authenticity.

Regulatory Loopholes Exploited by E-Pharmacies

The organisation criticised unregulated e-pharmacy platforms operating under the cover of GSR 817(E) and GSR 220(E) notifications, which relate to online sale and home delivery of medicines under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. AIOCD argued that these platforms misuse these provisions to justify online sales without effective prescription verification.

“The misuse of AI-generated prescriptions, coupled with unregulated online dispensing, can seriously compromise patient safety and undermine the integrity of India’s drug regulatory system,” said Rajiv Singhal, AIOCD general secretary, speaking to TOI.

Urgent Measures Requested from Regulators

AIOCD has called on the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) to take immediate steps, including:

• Withdrawing GSR 817(E) and GSR 220(E) notifications
• Shutting down illegal and unregulated e-pharmacy platforms by blocking their websites and payment gateways
• Prohibiting the use of AI or any digital tool to generate medical prescriptions
• Declaring AI-generated prescriptions illegal and invalid nationwide
• Ensuring that law-abiding offline chemists are not penalised for technological frauds or systemic failures

Public Health Risks Highlighted

The chemists’ organisation warned that the unregulated use of AI-generated prescriptions could worsen antimicrobial resistance and increase misuse of psychotropic drugs. It also added that offline chemists’ discretion and patient interaction are critical safeguards missing in online platforms.

Inputs from TOI