New Delhi: With the implementation of the new maximum retail price (MRP) of 1,364 cancer drug formulations, consumers will be able to save a total of around Rs 3540.38 crore every year. The move by the government to control trade margin for cancer drugs took effect in the country on Monday, 9th November.
So far 85 pharma companies have submitted updated MRPs for 1364 cancer drug formulations comprising 121 drugs, according to the Department of Pharmaceuticals.
The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers has fixed the trade margin for the MRPs of 137 cancer drugs. This has been decided following the recommendations by an expert committee formed by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
679 Brands Have A Price Reduction Of Greater Than 50%
Out of these formulations, 679 brands are being sold at a price reduction of over 50%. The highest MRP of any brand being reduced is by 96.45%.
This will give much needed relief to cancer patients and their families. The government has estimated that consumers will be able to save around Rs 3,540.38 crore every year.
The move to control prices of non-scheduled cancer drugs will help increase affordability.
How To Find New Prices
Consumers can find the updated MRP printed on the packaging of the drug. They can also check the new price via the Pharma Sahi Daam app or NPPA website.
Chemists and hospital pharmacies will not be able to charge above the new MRP. If you feel you are being overcharged or there is another issue concerning the price of the drug, you can complain using the Pharma Jan Samadhan website or call the NPPA helpline on 1800-111-255.
The NPPA have also published updated price lists on their official website.