The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has approved a 50% increase in the prices of 8 essential drugs on October 14. These drugs are majorly used to treat asthma, glaucoma, thalassemia, tuberculosis, and mental health disorders. The apex authority on drug regulations took the decision after manufacturers claimed that price control policies had made the production of these drugs "unviable."

The formulations affected by the price hike are Benzylpenicillin, Atropine injection 06 mg/ml, Streptomycin powder for injection 750 and 1000 mg, Salbutamol tablet 2mg, respirator solution, Pilocarpine 2% drops, Cefadroxil tablet 500 mg for injection, Deferoxamine 500 mg for injection and Lithium tablets 300 mg.

These drugs are part of the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM) and are typically low-cost, making them crucial for public health programs.

• Benzylpenicillin is a crucial drug that is widely used to treat common respiratory ailments.

• Salbutamol tablet 2mg is essential in the treatment of sever conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

• Atropine injection 06 mg/ml is given as general anaesthesia during surgeries to reduce generation of saliva.

• Streptomycin powder is an essential drug used treatment of tuberculosis.

• Deferoxamine 500 mg is a key drug that trats thalassemia patients.

• Pilocarpine 2% drops treats various eye infections including glaucoma.

• Cefadroxil tablet 500 mg is a common drug widely used in many antibiotics that treat skin and throat infections.

• Lithium 300 mg tablets are an integral drug used in the treatment of mental illnesses like bipolar disorder and other manic depressive illnesses.

The NPPA said that the decision was taken in account of increased costs of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) together with production expenses. The authority also noted that some companies had threatened to discontinue production of certain formulations due to the current pricing regulations.

While the government argues that the price hike is necessary so that the essential drugs are readily available, this move is a major set-back for financially weaker patients. This hike would make the medicines unaffordable for many and may result in delayed or reduced treatment.

The NPPA's decision is the latest in a series of price adjustments for essential drugs. In 2019 and 2021, the authority invoked extraordinary powers to approve similar price hikes for other medications.

The move is likely to spark further debate on the balance between ensuring drug availability and affordability in India. As the country continues to grapple with rising healthcare costs, the NPPA's decision will be closely watched by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.