New Delhi, March 29: The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority announced an upward revision in the maximum prices for several critical medications, including the potent antibiotic Meropenem and various intravenous fluids. These new price caps, which take effect April 1, 2026, were determined based on the annual Wholesale Price Index adjustment.
The change specifically impacts Meropenem injections packaged in dual chamber bags. Under the updated regulations, the ceiling price for a 500 milligram bag will move to Rs 851.43, while the 1,000 milligram version is set at Rs 1,121.96. These figures represent a marginal increase of approximately 0.65 percent over previous rates and do not include applicable Goods and Services Tax.
Officials stated that the latest revision supersedes earlier price orders for these formulations and aims to maintain price control on essential hospital-use fluids while allowing limited adjustments in line with inflation.
Meropenem serves as a last-resort treatment for critically ill patients facing severe bacterial infections such as septicaemia and hospital-acquired pneumonia. Because of its vital role in intensive care units, the government maintains strict price controls to ensure the medication remains accessible.
The price adjustments also extend to common IV fluids. For instance, a 1,000 ml non-glass container of 5 percent glucose injection is now capped at Rs 97.40. Sodium chloride injections will see prices ranging from Rs 43.07 for 100 ml packs to Rs 100.87 for 1,000 ml packs.
Manufacturers currently selling products above these new limits are required to reduce their prices immediately. Those who fail to comply with the notified ceiling prices may be liable to deposit the overcharged amount along with interest under the Drugs Prices Control Order and the Essential Commodities Act.
