Now, an app to compare price, quality of medicines

Kochi: The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has rolled out an app for consumers to compare the prices and quality of medicines, and even lodge complaints.

The app, named 'Pharma Sahi Daam', was recently launched as part of the silver jubilee celebrations of the NPPA. The app is available for download on Google Play Store.

Consumers can compare the price and formulations of the medicines, as well as lodge any complaints about the quality of medicines through the app.

Companies levying different prices for medicines with the same quality and formulations have led to complaints being raised. In such a scenario, the NPPA, through this app, aims to provide a platform for the consumer to directly check the prices.

The NPPA is also implementing a new database management system as part of making the day-to-day procedures of medicine manufacturing companies and medical shops transparent.

By implementing the Integrated Pharmaceutical Database Management System (IPDMS), the objective is to ensure centralised monitoring of the pharma market in the country.

Price regulation

Similar to the price regulation for cancer medicines, there is a proposal to expand the price control on 139 drug formulations. This includes medicines used to treat blood pressure and diabetes.

Though major manufacturing companies and those involved in distribution have expressed concerns, the report on this is under the consideration of the Union Health Ministry.