National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM)

What is National List of Essential Medicines?

• The National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM) is a list of medicines that are considered essential for public health.
• It is published by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and forms the basis of Schedule I of DPCO.

Criteria for Inclusion in NLEM:

1. Public Health Importance:

   • Drugs that address major health issues like tuberculosis, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

2. Cost-effectiveness:

   • Affordable medicines that provide maximum benefit at minimum cost.

3. Safety and Efficacy:

   • Medicines proven to be safe, effective, and stable under normal conditions.

4. Availability:

   • Drugs that are readily available in the market.

Significance of NLEM:

• Ensures accessibility and affordability of essential drugs.
• Forms the basis for price regulation under DPCO.
• Focuses on improving healthcare standards and public health outcomes.

Latest NLEM Updates:

• The 2022 version of NLEM includes 384 medicines grouped into therapeutic categories like antibiotics, painkillers, and antivirals.

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