In a decisive operation, the Telangana State Drug Control Administration (TGS DCA) confiscated Itramen-200 capsules (Itraconazole 200 mg) from a medical shop at Bandimet, Secunderabad, for selling the drug at inflated prices more than the ceiling fixed by the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA).

Key Details
Product Under Scrutiny:

• The drug under consideration, Itramen-200 Capsules (Itraconazole 200 mg), is marketed by Rivpra Formulations Pvt Ltd, Haridwar, for Menarik Biomerge Pvt Ltd, New Delhi.

• Itraconazole is an antifungal drug and falls under price control drugs as per the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013.

Price Violation:

• The NPPA had already fixed the ceiling price for Itramen-200 Capsules at Rs. 221.2 for 10 capsules. Adding 12% GST, the MRP for 10 capsules could not go beyond Rs. 247.7.

• But the capsules were selling at Rs. 350 for 10 capsules. That is, it was collecting an excess of Rs. 102.23 per strip from the patients and there is blatant disregard to the regulation on price control.

Enforcement Action:

• TGS DCA teams conducted raid at a medical shop situated at Bandimet, Secunderabad, and confiscated overpriced Itramen-200 Capsules.

• In their view, overprice stock contravenes the provisions of the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013.

Impact of Overpricing:

• Overcharging in essential medicines like itraconazole affects mainly the patients suffering from fungal infection, many of whom rely on this life-saving drug at an affordable price.

• All such violations undermine the accessibility of medicines, especially for weaker economic sections.

Role of Government in Price Control:

• To ensure that all essential medicines remain affordable for all, the NPPA regulates the prices.

• The Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013, is a vital framework that aims to curb such malpractices by manufacturers and retailers.

The seizure in Secunderabad is a testament to the vigilance of the Telangana State Drug Control Administration in protecting consumer rights and ensuring compliance with drug pricing regulations. The action sends a strong message to violators, reaffirming the government's commitment to making healthcare accessible and affordable for all.