‘’All the changes will lead to better and positive growth’’

In India, the pharma industry is fast changing with a new outlook at the healthcare sector. The changes are going to affect the prices as well as availability of medicines in India. There are many changes which shall affect the patients directly as they are the end user of the product. Many Indian pharma companies will soon have to bear the higher costs for sale of products in American markets, as the US health regulator FDA is hiking the fees for generic drug makers by up to 48 per cent from October 13.

This shall reduce the export to US much more. At the same time, the drugs available in India shall cost more. The new drug price control list sees many new drugs added to it and it is going to help patients at one end, but there is a possibility of newer combinations coming into existence which may remain out of the price control. Pharma industry is taking a heavy toll, as many feel it is a political move to approach the forthcoming elections.

As of today, clinical trial guidelines are more based on the available material from other countries and research work. It may be biased, but with the changes occurring now we expect them to be fairer and well documented. Good manufacturing practices are being advised by US FDA and other government authorities, which will result in dual benefits. Patients will get a superior and well documented product.

This again can turnout a bit costly but in today’s scenario wherein we are well exposed to legal issues, it is a better option. Another option now being thought about is the generic drug market. So far in India this has not picked up, but in near future it is going to be a key. Due to all round price hikes many shall opt for this method. We still do not have well regulated guidelines for this. The patient will be happy that the cost is reduced but how they would respond is not sure.

Many still believe in brand value. Pharma industry on the other hand is increasing exports, with stricter control on various issues from manufacturing to packing as per the international standards. This will help all our Indian pharma giants to establish themselves in the international market. All the changes will lead to better and positive growth.

– Dr Jayesh Lele, State Secretary, Indian Medical Association Maharashtra