IPC Launches Reference Standards to Enhance Drug Quality

The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) made headlines recently by hosting its first-ever interactive meeting at the Central Drugs Laboratory (CDL) and Central Cosmetics Laboratory (CCL) in Kolkata, West Bengal. This significant gathering aimed to pave the way for improved pharmacopoeial standards and drug quality across the nation, focusing on the theme “IP 2026: Perspectives, Suggestions & Way Forward.”

Experts and stakeholders convened to emphasize the importance of Indian Pharmacopoeia Reference Standards and Impurity Standards in guaranteeing the safety, efficacy, and quality of pharmaceuticals available in India.

Introduction of Nitrosamine Standards

A key highlight of the meeting was the launch of seven new Indian Pharmacopoeia Nitrosamine Impurities Reference Standards. This inaugural rollout by IPC includes seven critical reference standards: N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), N-Nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA), N-Nitrosoethylisopropylamine (NEIPA), N-Nitrosodibutylamine (NDBA), N-Nitrosomethylphenylamine (NMPA), N-Nitrosodiisopropylamine (NDIPA), and N-Nitroso-N-methyl-4-aminobutyric acid (NMBA).

Nitrosamines are recognized as highly potent genotoxic and carcinogenic compounds. They can inadvertently form during the manufacturing, storage, or packaging processes, and may arise from contamination due to various materials involved in pharmaceutical production. The control of these impurities is essential, especially in medications targeting hypertension, gastric disorders, diabetes, and tuberculosis.

Boosting Pharmaceutical Standards

The introduction of these seven reference standards marks a significant advancement in India’s capacity to accurately detect and quantify nitrosamine impurities in pharmaceuticals. This initiative is poised to bolster pharmaceutical testing, method validation, quality assurance, and compliance with regulations. Importantly, it also supports the alignment with international quality standards while fostering self-reliance in crucial reference materials.

Dr. V. Kalaiselvan, Secretary-cum-Scientific Director of the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission, underscored the importance of collaborative efforts with the CDL laboratory in ensuring the quality of medicines during his inaugural address. Notable figures at the event included Dr. Suparna Chatterjee, Professor and Head of Pharmacology at IPGMER Kolkata, and Dr. Rakesh Kumar Rishi, Director of the Central Drugs Laboratory, who both contributed to the discussions.

A Platform for Collaboration

The meeting served as a vital platform for experts from regulatory authorities, laboratories, and the IPC to share insights and contribute suggestions. This collaborative environment aims to strengthen the Indian Pharmacopoeia and enhance the overall quality ecosystem surrounding national drug standards.


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Shalini Singh

Shalini Singh is a journalist specializing in Indian politics and national affairs. With a keen eye for political developments, policy reforms, and democratic discourse, she brings clarity and insight to every piece she writes. Shalini is also associated with ANB National, where she reports on key political narratives and legislative… More »
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