In a major step toward affordable healthcare, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has slashed retail prices of 35 essential medicines. The updated price list includes widely used formulations for diabetes, heart conditions, infections, inflammation, and psychiatric care. The move will especially benefit chronic disease patients, with key drugs like empagliflozin, atorvastatin, and amoxicillin now priced lower. The order mandates retailers to display new prices, with penalties for overcharging under DPCO rules.

Key highlights

Broad range of drugs included

• Covers anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular, antibiotic, anti-diabetic, and psychiatric medicines.

• Pediatric oral suspensions and critical injectables like Diclofenac also included.

Notified formulations and new prices

• Aceclofenac + Paracetamol + Trypsin tablet priced at ₹13 (Dr. Reddy's), ₹15.01 (Cadila).

• Atorvastatin 40 mg + Clopidogrel 75 mg priced at ₹25.61.

• Vitamin D (Cholecalciferol) drops and Cefixime-Paracetamol suspensions included.

Price compliance rules in effect

• Retailers must prominently display the updated price list.

• Overcharging attracts penalties under DPCO, 2013 and Essential Commodities Act, 1955.

• Prices are exclusive of GST; manufacturers must update Form V via IPDMS.

NPPA continues regulatory enforcement

• Any older pricing orders stand cancelled by this notification.

• NPPA works under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers to ensure fair pricing.

• Manufacturers must share price updates with NPPA and state regulators.

The revised prices are expected to ease out-of-pocket spending for millions of patients dependent on daily medications. With clear enforcement guidelines and digital price monitoring, this move strengthens transparency and access — keeping medicine affordable without compromising availability.