The National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) plans to revise the maximum retail prices (MRP) of 60 essential medicines after considering the appreciation of the US Dollar, NMRA Chairman Specialist Dr Ananda Wijewickrama said.
Dr Wijewickrama said the decision was prompted by the increase in the value of the US Dollar in the local market, which has affected the cost of importing medicines.
He noted that the revision could result in price increases for some medicines included under the controlled pricing mechanism.
Accordingly, the gazette issued in 2023 setting maximum retail prices for 60 essential medicines is expected to be amended.
Meanwhile, he said the NMRA is continuing inspections and raids targeting pharmacies that sell medicines above the approved maximum retail prices. (Newswire)