During telemedicine consultations, doctors are not permitted to prescribe drugs listed in Schedule X of the Drug and Cosmetic Act, such as anti-cancer drugs, morphine, and codeine, according to the National Medical Commission (NMC).

Only 'over the counter' drugs for common ailments, such as topical antibiotics, antiseptics, antacids, and cough suppressants, can be prescribed via telemedicine, according to NMC's inaugural telemedicine guideline.

Furthermore, NMC recommends that drugs such as antifungal agents, antibiotic eye drops, and antibiotics for a variety of conditions such as conjunctivitis and abscesses be prescribed via video consultation.

The National Medical Commission guidelines for 2023 allow for a variety of communication modes for consulting on 'add-on' drugs that improve existing conditions. These medications can be prescribed through video, audio, or text consultations.

Doctors' e-prescriptions must include their contact information as well as patient information such as name, age, gender, and contact information. The prescription should include the drug name in capital letters, as well as the formulation, dose, frequency, and duration.

Under the new rules, doctors or registered medical practitioners (RMPs) who require telemedicine when a patient prefers an in-person visit will be considered professionally inappropriate.

The guidelines require doctors to retain a digital record of patient data, including records, reports, images, and diagnostics, for three years after the last consultation.

Regarding fees, the new guidelines state that telemedicine consultations should be charged similarly to in-person consultations.