Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala drugs control department has seized performance-enhancing medicines worth Rs 1.5 lakh from 50 gyms across the state as part of a drive to curb the use of such drugs.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, State Health Minister Veena George said the department conducted statewide special inspections to detect and prevent the misuse of unauthorised performance enhancers in gyms. 

The inspection was carried out based on confidential information that gyms were illegally supplying such stimulants to consumers as part of bodybuilding competitions. The minister said cases are being filed against the erring gyms, and strict legal action is being taken against them.

The drugs seized from gyms include medicines used for various diseases, the statement added. 

Officials seized a large quantity of steroids, which require a doctor's prescription, from a gym trainer's house in Thrissur. These drugs can only be legally sold by authorised pharmacies. The use of such medications can lead to serious health problems, the statement said.

The minister has instructed the department to strengthen inspections focusing on gyms. The department has also decided to conduct awareness classes to educate youth about the harmful effects of such drugs.