October 01, Colombo (LNW): Government measures to regulate the prices of 13 high-cost medicines are expected to generate savings of around Rs. 5.7 billion, according to the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA).
NMRA Chairman and specialist Dr Ananda Wijewickrama said the estimated figure represented the overall financial benefit expected from the latest price reductions, with the actual savings varying from patient to patient depending on the medicines they require.
Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo today (01), Dr Wijewickrama said the price reductions primarily cover medicines commonly prescribed for long-term treatment.
The move is expected to ease some of the financial pressure faced by patients who need to purchase these medicines regularly, particularly those managing chronic conditions requiring continued treatment.