The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has fixed the retail prices of 39 essential medicines, including drugs used to treat high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, HIV, infections and eye conditions.The decision was taken under the Drugs (Price Control) Order (DPCO), 2013 and announced by the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers on July 8.
Officials clarified that the order is meant to set the maximum retail price of these medicines to keep them affordable. It is not a general price cut.
The NPPA has also directed medicine dealers and retailers to display the latest price lists provided by manufacturers. Companies that charge more than the fixed price may have to refund the extra amount along with interest under DPCO rules.
Some medicines with fixed prices
- Amlodipine + Bisoprolol + Telmisartan tablets (for high blood pressure): ₹14.74 per tablet
- Clopidogrel + Aspirin + Atorvastatin capsules (to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke): ₹6.37 per capsule
- Sitagliptin + Metformin + Glimepiride tablets (for Type 2 diabetes): ₹13.27 per tablet
- Nepafenac + Moxifloxacin eye drops (used after eye surgery): ₹68.64 per ml
- Vitamin D3 oral solution: ₹15.88 per ml
- Tenecteplase injection (used to dissolve blood clots during emergencies): ₹60,238.27 per vial
The price control covers medicines used for several common and serious illnesses, helping improve access to essential treatment for patients across the country.