New Delhi: In a major relief for patients, the Union Government has reduced the retail prices of 35 essential drugs sold by leading pharmaceutical companies.

The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers has announced price reductions on a broad range of medicines, including anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular, antibiotic, anti-diabetic, and psychiatric drugs.

The move follows a pricing order issued by the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) and is expected to offer relief to consumers, especially those managing chronic health conditions.

Key formulations covered under the latest price control order include fixed-dose combinations such as Aceclofenac, Paracetamol and Trypsin Chymotrypsin; Amoxycillin and Potassium Clavulanate; Atorvastatin combinations; and newer oral anti-diabetic combinations like Empagliflozin, Sitagliptin, and Metformin.

The price of one tablet containing Aceclofenac, Paracetamol, and Trypsin Chymotrypsin, manufactured by Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals and marketed by Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, has been fixed at ₹13. The same formulation marketed by Cadila Pharmaceuticals is now priced at ₹15.01.

Similarly, a tablet combining Atorvastatin 40 mg and Clopidogrel 75 mg, commonly prescribed for cardiovascular conditions, is now priced at ₹25.61.

Oral suspensions for paediatric use, Cefixime and Paracetamol combinations, have also been included, along with critical medications like Cholecalciferol drops for Vitamin D supplementation and Diclofenac Injection, which has been priced at Rs 31.77 per ml.

According to the official order, retailers and dealers are required to prominently display the updated price lists at their premises. Non-compliance with the notified prices may attract penalties under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order (DPCO), 2013, and the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, including the recovery of overcharged amounts along with interest. IANS