The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has notified the retail prices of several new drug formulations, including widely prescribed combinations for pain relief and diabetes management. The order, issued on September 15, 2025, under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013 (DPCO), fixes maximum retail prices (MRP) for manufacturers and marketers, exclusive of GST.
Key Formulations and Prices
- Aceclofenac, Paracetamol & Thiocolchicoside tablets: Rs 27.49 (8 mg) and Rs 18.43 (4 mg) per tablet (Innova Captab Ltd./Macleods Pharmaceuticals).
- Ibuprofen & Paracetamol suspension: Rs 0.55 per ml (Shiva Biogenetic Pharmaceuticals/Mankind Prime Labs).
- Dapagliflozin, Glimepiride & Metformin (ER) tablets: Rs 10.80 - Rs 11.70 per tablet (Akums Drugs/Blue Cross Laboratories).
- Sitagliptin, Glimepiride & Metformin tablets: Rs 13.24 - Rs 15.00 per tablet (Exemed Pharmaceuticals/Alembic Pharmaceuticals).
- Sitagliptin, Empagliflozin & Metformin (ER) tablets: Rs 30.00 - Rs 34.50 per tablet (Exemed Pharmaceuticals/Macleods Pharmaceuticals).
Compliance & Penalties
The NPPA clarified that manufacturers may add GST only if it is payable. They must also notify updated price lists to NPPA, State Drug Controllers, and dealers through the Integrated Pharmaceutical Database Management System (IPDMS).
Retailers and dealers are mandated to display the latest price lists prominently at their premises. Any violation - including overcharging - will invite recovery of the overcharged amount with interest under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.
Why It Matters
The move is aimed at preventing overpricing of essential combination drugs, many of which are prescribed for chronic conditions like diabetes, pain management, and musculoskeletal disorders. By fixing MRPs, the NPPA seeks to ensure affordability and transparency in the pharmaceutical market.
Official copy of the notification has been attached
CAclubindia
