Prices for drugs listed as vital and essential in Russia rose slightly by about 1.6 percent in the early part of 2023, a pace that stayed lower than the general inflation rate. This trend was noted in an interview with the health ministry, where officials discussed the dynamics of pharmaceutical pricing and the safeguards in place to keep essential medicines affordable for the population. The discussion highlighted that price increases are monitored closely and are weighed against the broader goal of ensuring access to medicines that are critical for public health and chronic disease management.
Officials emphasized that the prices of essential medicines are subject to regulation, which helps dampen abrupt or steep increases. The regulatory framework is designed to prevent sudden spikes that could limit patient access or strain household budgets. By maintaining a controlled price environment for vital drugs, the authorities aim to preserve continuity of treatment for patients who depend on these medicines for chronic conditions and life-threatening illnesses alike.
In a related move, the government took steps to broaden the catalogue of essential medicines. On June 10, a formal decision was signed to expand the list, reflecting an ongoing effort to adapt to evolving medical needs and the introduction of new therapies or formulations that can improve patient outcomes. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to align the national essential medicines list with international standards and to ensure that the most impactful treatments remain accessible within the country’s healthcare system.
Beginning on August 13, the updated list of vital and essential medicines entered into effect, incorporating additional dosage forms for several drugs. Notably, there were new forms for glecaprevir and pibrentasvir—a combination antiviral used in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C in pediatric patients. The addition of coated granules for this medication reflects attention to pediatric pharmacology, ensuring that children have practical and accurate dosing options that support effective therapy while considering tolerability and ease of administration in real-world settings.
Beyond these regulatory steps, ongoing efforts continue to address the broader landscape of Russian healthcare. Health authorities monitor trends in life expectancy and overall public health metrics as part of an evidence-based approach to policymaking. Through data-driven analysis and regular evaluation of medication access, the ministry seeks to balance affordability with clinical efficacy, aiming to sustain improvements in population health that can translate into longer, healthier lives for Russians across regions and demographics [Source: Ministry of Health and official press briefings].