Hyderabad:TheDrugs Control Administration (DCA), Telangana, has issued an advisory to all retail and wholesale medical shops across the state following reports of gyms and fitness centres illegally procuring and sellinganabolic-androgenic steroids and cardiac stimulants like mephentermine injectionsto gym-goers, who are reportedly misusing these prescription medicines for bodybuilding purposes. Officials warned that the misuseof prescription medicines such as Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids, Mephentermine Sulphate Injections, etc., for bodybuilding purposes can lead to serious adverse effects, including cardiovascular disorders, hormonal imbalance, psychiatric disturbances, and, in some cases, even death. The DCA reminded alllicensees that Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids and Cardiac Stimulants like Mephentermine Injection, etc., are ‘Prescription Medicines’, and shall mandatorily be sold only against a valid prescription issued by a Registered Medical Practitioner. The administration further cautioned thatany illegal sale,diversion, or distribution of such prescription medicines for non-therapeutic or abusive purposes constitutes a serious violation of the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Rules thereunder, and shall be dealt with strictlyand offenders will face stringent actions including cancellation of drug licences and prosecution. Read also:Telangana: Medical shop seized, licence cancelled for illegal sale of Schedule H1 drugs Medical shops have been instructed toutmost vigilance in dispensing such medicines and to maintain proper prescription records as mandated under the Rules.