Huge Price Differences in Medicines in UP.. Shocking Details Emerge from Inspections

A major difference between the purchase cost and maximum retail price (MRP) of medicines has been found during inspections of hospital pharmacies in Uttar Pradesh. The Uttar Pradesh Food Safety and Drug Administration (UPFSDA) inspected 214 hospitals, including medical colleges and private hospitals, and examined the prices of 130 medicines. Officials found that 36 medicines had an MRP more than 10 times their purchase price. One injection used to treat bacterial infections was reportedly purchased for ₹74 but carried an MRP of ₹4,980. A cancer injection purchased for ₹7,541 was reportedly listed with an MRP of ₹69,995.

The inspection also found significant price differences in medical equipment. One device purchased for ₹6 was reportedly displayed with an MRP of ₹163. The findings have raised questions over how medicine and medical equipment prices are determined and displayed at hospital pharmacies. However, a difference between purchase price and MRP does not automatically establish a violation, as taxes, distribution expenses and regulated pricing rules can influence the final price. Authorities are expected to examine the cases further to determine whether any pricing or regulatory violations have occurred.