NPPA Caps Trade Margins On 137 Anti-Cancer Drugs

National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) capped trade margins on MRP of 137 anti-cancer drugs, based on the recommendations of Expert Committee constituted by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) under Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. The revised prices of these drugs come into effect from today. As on date, 76 pharmaceutical companies have reported revised MRP for 1225 anti-cancer formulations, covering 121 drugs.

Reduction in the MRP have been reported in 1031 formulations of anti-cancer medicines, with 600 brands reporting above 50% reduction and the highest reduction being 96.45%. Further, out of the 137 identified anti-cancer drugs, there are 10-15 drugs which are yet to be launched in India. However, Trade Margin Rationalization (TMR) will be applicable on these drugs also as and when they are launched.  As a result of the price reductions to be effected from today, the estimated annual savings to consumers would be ₹3,502.31 crore.

TMR of non-scheduled anti-cancer medicines is an important step taken by the Government in its continued efforts to improve affordability and accessibility of essential anti-cancer medicines for cancer care.