ISLAMABAD, Aug 8: The ministry of health has prepared new drugs discounts and price adjustment rules to streamline the system. According to new rules no manufacturer or importer will allow a sum of all discounts, in cash, kind or both, exceeding forty per cent on the trade price.

The ministry has set the rules in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 43 of the Drugs Act, 1976 (XXXI of 1976), with clause (v) of sub-section 92).

These rules have been prepared for those drugs registered with the ministry of health.

The scope of discount will not be applicable in case of supplies to public sector hospital, institution or hospital attached with medical or teaching institution registered with Pakistan Medical and Dental Council or bona fide hospital operating solely for charity purpose and supplying free of cost medicines to patients.

Downward and upward adjustments of the drug prices will take place within the maximum retail price fixed by the federal government.

According to new rules, the company or firm will make upward or downward adjustments in prices, if they so desire, after the expiry of one year from the date of last adjustment.

The minister of health will be informed in advance of the adjustment in prices and the effective date for such adjusted price.

Similarly, there will be no other change in the approved labelling of the drug.

The drug price which is not fixed in accordance with these rules will be re-registered after giving an opportunity of being heard by the concerned company or firm.—APP