Drug Price Complaint: According to information released by the government, prices of 679 brands have been reduced by more than 50 percent. The highest price reduction among these was 96.45 percent.

How much cheaper cancer medicines have become

Cancer Medicine Price Cut In India: The prices of several cancer-treating drugs have been reduced starting today, November 9th. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has fixed trade margins on the maximum retail price (MRP) of 137 anti-cancer drugs. This decision was made based on the recommendations of an expert committee constituted under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), a department of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The new prices are effective from Monday, November 9th, 2026.

Following this change, the prices of 1,364 anti-cancer formulations have decreased. As of November 8, 2026, 85 pharmaceutical companies have reported revised MRPs for 121 drugs. This means that patients and their families are now required to check the new price printed on the packaging when purchasing these drugs.

679 brands see over 50% price reduction

According to information released by the government, prices of 679 brands have been reduced by more than 50 percent. The highest price reduction was reported at 96.45 percent. Consumers are expected to save approximately ₹3,540.38 crore annually due to the reduced drug prices. This change is especially important for those who require long-term medication during cancer treatment. The reduction in drug prices can have a direct impact on treatment costs.

How to check the new price?

If you are purchasing any of these anti-cancer drugs, first check the revised MRP printed on the package. Additionally, drug price information can be checked through the "Pharma Sahi Daam" mobile app. Drug price information is also available on the NPPA website. Therefore, if you have any doubts about the price of a drug, you can check the MRP printed on the package and available online information before purchasing. Most importantly, no chemist or hospital pharmacy can sell a drug at a price higher than the revised MRP.

Where should I complain if the shopkeeper asks for more money?

If a shopkeeper or hospital pharmacy charges a drug price higher than the established MRP, consumers can file a complaint. For overcharging or any other drug price-related issue, consumers can file a complaint through the "Pharma Jan Samadhan" portal. They can also contact the NPPA helpline at 1800-111-255. In such cases, always check the MRP printed on the drug package. If you are charged more than that, you can use the complaint option.

How are the prices of medicines determined?

The Drug Price Control Order (DPCO) plays a key role in determining drug prices. Under the DPCO of 2013, the government sets the ceiling prices for essential medicines included in the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM). The ceiling prices for these essential medicines are determined based on market prices. Selling medicines above these ceiling prices is illegal.

The Ministry of Health compiles the list of Essential Medicines. It considers safety, effectiveness, and cost. Common diseases in the country and the health needs of the population are also considered when developing this list. This list is periodically reviewed, and new medicines are added as needed. However, the government has relatively little direct control over the prices of medicines not included in this list.

Keep these things in mind while buying medicine.

When purchasing anti-cancer drugs, always check the MRP printed on the pack. If you have any doubts about the price, it can be verified through the Pharma Sahi Daam app or the NPPA website. A complaint can be lodged if a chemist or hospital pharmacy charges more than the revised MRP. Following the implementation of the new prices, revised MRPs have been released for 1,364 anti-cancer formulations. According to the government, this will result in an estimated annual savings of approximately ₹3,540.38 crore for consumers. Therefore, when purchasing cancer drugs, it is important to use the new MRP printed on the pack instead of the old price.