The National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) today announced controlled prices for 350 types of medicines, a move aimed at making essential treatments more affordable for the public.
Speaking to the media, NMRA Chairman Dr. Ananda Wijewickrama said the initiative is designed to enhance public health by ensuring that critical medicines are available at regulated prices. He highlighted that several essential drugs, including those for high blood pressure and cancer, will see substantial price reductions.
For instance, the price of a vial of Paclitaxel (protein-bound particles), used in cancer treatment, has been reduced from Rs. 42,000 to Rs. 26,332.29. A 50ml vial of Nimodipine injection, used to treat general paralysis, will now cost Rs. 4,100.38. Mebendazole 500 mg tablets, marketed as Wormin 500 for intestinal worm infections, have been cut from Rs. 83 to Rs. 50.25.
Dr. Wijewickrama added that the NMRA will continue to regulate prices for newly registered medicines and license renewals. He also announced plans to launch a mobile app enabling consumers to easily access information on medicines and their controlled prices.
To ensure compliance, inspections will be conducted, and pharmacies will be required to display price lists for consumers. Dr. Wijewickrama warned that legal action will be taken against pharmacies that sell medicines above the maximum retail prices.
“The public has the right to check the prices of the medicines they purchase, and pharmacies must adhere to the regulated rates,” he added.
