New Delhi, August 4, 2025 –
In a move that brings *major relief to patients across India, especially those battling **chronic health conditions, the *Central Government has announced a *significant reduction in prices of 35 essential medicines. This includes life-saving drugs for *blood pressure, diabetes, cardiac issues, antibiotics, and pain relief.
The announcement came through the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, which officially notified the revised retail prices.
Essential Drugs Now More Affordable
The revised prices are expected to benefit *millions of Indians, particularly those with **long-term medical needs. Medicines whose prices have dropped include those manufactured by *top pharma companies such as Dr. Reddy’s and Cadila Pharmaceuticals.
Examples from the price list:
- Aceclofenac + Paracetamol + Trypsin Chymotrypsin Tablets (Dr. Reddy’s): ₹13 per tablet
- Same formulation (Cadila): ₹15.01 per tablet
- Atorvastatin (40 mg) + Clopidogrel (75 mg): ₹25.61 per tablet
Also included in the list:
- Cholecalciferol drops (used for Vitamin D deficiency)
- Cefixime-Paracetamol oral suspension for children
- Diclofenac injection (1 ml): ₹31.77
These changes will substantially lower out-of-pocket expenses for families and senior citizens, particularly those managing BP, diabetes, and chronic pain.
Strict Guidelines for Pharmacies and Retailers
NPPA has directed all medical retailers and wholesalers to display the updated price list prominently in their stores. Selling above the notified price will attract strict penalties, including:
- Recovery of overcharged amount with interest
- Legal action under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013
- Provisions of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955
Additionally, companies must update pricing data via the Integrated Pharmaceutical Database Management System (IPDMS) and submit it to NPPA and respective State Drug Controllers.
The new prices do not include GST, which will be added separately at billing.
A Welcome Step for Public Health
Experts say this decision is a much-needed intervention to make *basic healthcare more accessible and affordable. It also signals the government’s commitment to regulating medicine costs in an *equitable and transparent manner.
This move not only reduces the financial burden on households but also improves *compliance among patients, especially those who often skip doses due to *high costs.