The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has approved a significant 50% increase in the ceiling prices of two essential cancer medications, Carboplatin and Cisplatin injections, amid rising concerns over potential shortages. The decision, taken during the NPPA's 147th meeting on Thursday, aims to ensure the continued availability of these critical chemotherapy drugs, which are vital for treating various cancers.
Reason Behind the Price Revision
The price revision was necessitated by escalating costs of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and supply chain disruptions. Manufacturers had reported sharp volatility in API prices, prompting the NPPA to invoke its extraordinary powers under Para 19 of the Drug Price Control Order (DPCO), 2013. The regulator also held discussions with manufacturers to address supply concerns and maintain drug availability.
New Ceiling Prices
Under the revised pricing, the ceiling price of Carboplatin 10 mg/ml injection has been increased from Rs 60.49 per ml to Rs 90.74 per ml. Similarly, the ceiling price of Cisplatin 1 mg/ml injection has been raised from Rs 7.26 per ml to Rs 10.89 per ml. These new prices will be reviewed after six months or earlier if necessary.
Other Drug Price Revisions
In addition to the cancer drugs, the NPPA also approved a one-time 50% increase in ceiling prices of Anti-Tetanus Immunoglobulin (ATIG) 250 IU and 500 IU injections. This move comes after manufacturers flagged viability concerns. Furthermore, the authority revised the ceiling prices of three key childhood vaccines: BCG, Measles, and Measles-Rubella vaccines, citing their public health importance and limited number of manufacturers.
Selective Approvals
Out of 82 applications seeking upward price revisions under Para 19 of DPCO, only four formulations were approved. The remaining 78 applications were deferred pending additional information. The NPPA emphasized that the selective approvals were aimed at preventing shortages and ensuring the continued availability of life-saving medicines and vaccines.
The regulator noted that while affordability remains a priority, access to life-saving medicines cannot be compromised by making their production commercially unviable. This balanced approach seeks to protect both patient access and manufacturer sustainability.
