From April 1, 2025, the prices of more than 900 essential medicines are set to increase across India by 1.74%, impacting patients suffering from diabetes, heart disease, infections, and high blood pressure. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has approved this hike based on the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) increase, allowing pharmaceutical companies to adjust their retail prices accordingly.

• Azithromycin (250 mg) – ₹11.87 per tablet

• Azithromycin (500 mg) – ₹23.98 per tablet

• Amoxicillin + Clavulanic Acid Dry Syrup – ₹2.09 per ml

• Acyclovir (200 mg) – ₹7.74 per tablet

• Acyclovir (400 mg) – ₹13.90 per tablet

• Hydroxychloroquine (200 mg) – ₹6.47 per tablet

• Hydroxychloroquine (400 mg) – ₹14.04 per tablet

• Diclofenac – ₹2.09 per tablet

• Ibuprofen (200 mg) – ₹0.72 per tablet

• Ibuprofen (400 mg) – ₹1.22 per tablet

• Dapagliflozin + Metformin Hydrochloride + Glimepiride – ₹12.74 per tablet

• Bare-metal stent – ₹10,692.69

• Drug-eluting stent – ₹38,933.14

The hike will hit middle and lower-income groups the hardest, increasing healthcare costs at a time when inflation is already affecting household budgets. Patients who rely on daily medication for chronic diseases will have to spend significantly more.

The government claims that this price adjustment is necessary to ensure pharmaceutical companies continue production despite rising costs. However, concerns remain about affordability for common citizens.

• Use Jan Aushadhi Centres – These government-run pharmacies provide medicines at subsidized rates.

• Buy in Bulk – Purchasing larger packs may help save on per-unit costs.

• Opt for Generic Medicines – Consult your doctor for cheaper generic alternatives instead of branded drugs.