NPPA Fixes Retail Prices for 39 Drug Formulations

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority fixed the retail prices of 39 new drug formulations on 8 July 2026 under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013. The order covered formulations used in hypertension, diabetes, HIV, heart disease, eye infections, cancer, cardiovascular disorders, epilepsy, pain management, and vitamin deficiencies.

National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority is a regulatory body under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers. It fixes and revises prices of scheduled medicines under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013, and monitors compliance with price control provisions.

Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013

The Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013 is issued under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. Paragraphs 5, 11, and 15 of the order provide the framework for fixation of retail prices for new drug formulations and related price control procedures.

Price fixation and compliance rules

The notified prices are applicable exclusive of Goods and Services Tax. Manufacturers must issue revised price lists through the Integrated Pharmaceutical Database Management System and send copies to State Drug Controllers and dealers. Retailers and dealers must display the price lists prominently in their business premises.

Important Facts for Exams

• Tenecteplase (TNK-tPA) injection is a clot-busting medicine used in thrombolytic therapy.
• The retail price of Tenecteplase (TNK-tPA) injection was fixed at Rs 60,238.27 per vial.
• The retail price fixation order for new drug formulations is different from a price reduction order.
• Non-compliance can lead to deposit of the overcharged amount with applicable interest under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.

Therapeutic coverage of the notified formulations

The 39 formulations include medicines for cardiovascular disorders, anti-infective treatment, oncology, neurology, and nutritional deficiency management. Amlodipine, Bisoprolol, and Telmisartan are used in hypertension treatment, and the fixed retail price for one combination tablet was reported at Rs 14.74 per tablet in some records.

Enforcement and penalty framework

The Essential Commodities Act, 1955 provides the legal basis for action against overcharging in notified medicines. Manufacturers or marketing companies that do not comply with the price order are liable to deposit the overcharged amount along with interest.