Torrent Pharma Confirms Shelcal 500 Counterfeit Batch; Strengthens Anti-Counterfeit Measures

On September 26, 2024, media reports mentioned that the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), East Zone, Kolkata, had identified one batch (GDXD0581) of Shelcal 500, among other drugs from different pharmaceutical companies, as being of non-standard quality (NSQ). To verify the legitimacy of the sample collected by CDSCO, Torrent Pharmaceuticals conducted a comparative analysis with their controlled sample of the same batch. The analysis confirmed that the sample seized by CDSCO was not produced by Torrent but was instead counterfeit and of spurious origin.

As part of its anti-counterfeit measures, Torrent uses QR codes on Shelcal packaging, providing batch manufacturing details to confirm the product’s authenticity. This QR code was missing from the seized sample. Torrent’s investigation, which included examining the sample’s physical appearance, QR code, and labelling, concluded that the NSQ sample was counterfeit, while their controlled sample met all the pre-defined standards.

Torrent has formally submitted its findings and report to CDSCO, confirming that the seized sample is counterfeit. Torrent is reassured that every batch it manufactures undergoes strict quality testing and adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and regulatory standards.

About Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd

Torrent Pharma ranks 5th in the Indian pharmaceutical market and is a leader in key therapeutic areas such as cardiovascular (CV), gastrointestinal (GI), central nervous system (CNS), vitamins, minerals, and nutrition (VMN), as well as cosmo-dermatology. Around 75% of its revenue in India comes from chronic and sub-chronic therapies. Torrent has a global presence in more than 50 countries and is the top-ranked Indian pharma company in Brazil and Germany. The company has invested heavily in advanced R&D facilities, employing over 750 scientists.

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