Mumbai, Aug. 19 : Speculation that India might follow some European nations in banning Nimesulide mounted on stock exchanges today amid jitters over the damage it could inflict on firms that rely heavily on the drug. Among those that could take a hit are Dr. Reddy's Laboratories (DRL), whose Nise tablets are made from the formulation. The drug accounted for 15 per cent of its sales at Rs 59 crore, an increase of 32 per cent compared with Rs 44.5 crore in the previous financial year. The possibility of a ban being clamped by the Drug Controller's Office has gained ground after European nations led by Finland began pulling the popular anti-inflammatory drug off the shelves. The Finish government's temporary withdrawal was followed by Spain, which cautioned its citizens against popping the drug. The measures, industry watchers say, have been prompted by reports of side effects on gastro-intestinal tract. Nimesulide, marketed in 40 countries, is made from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) class of compounds. Other leading molecules in this category are diclofenac sodium (ibuprofen, pyroxicam). In India, other drug manufacturers marketing Nimesulide are Astra Zeneca, Cipla, Nicholas Piramal, Zydus Cadila, Ipca Labs, Wockhardt and a clutch of others. An official from one of these companies said it was premature to comment. 'It would tantamount to speculation since no adverse impact or side-effect of Nimesulide has been reported in India yet.' He argued that it has proved to be the most effective, and the one with least side effects vis a vis similar drugs.