The Delhi High Court has directed the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) not to take any coercive action against AstraZeneca Pharma India Limited in connection with an alleged overcharging demand of approximately ₹151.19 crore relating to its Symbicort Turbuhaler 160/4.5 inhaler.
In an order dated October 29, 2026, the Court directed NPPA to refrain from taking coercive steps until the next date of hearing, scheduled for January 11, 2027.
The matter relates to an NPPA notice issued on July 29, 2026, alleging overcharging under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013 (DPCO), in connection with the sale of Symbicort Turbuhaler 160/4.5. The allegations cover the period from May 2016 to November 2025.
According to AstraZeneca's regulatory disclosure dated November 2, 2026, the company had earlier received a show-cause notice dated September 11, 2025, followed by the subsequent demand and reminder from NPPA. AstraZeneca challenged the demand before the Delhi High Court.
The amount involved is approximately ₹151.19 crore, comprising the alleged overcharged amount and interest calculated up to October 30, 2026.
The interim direction provides temporary protection to AstraZeneca from coercive recovery action by NPPA pending further proceedings. The matter is scheduled to be heard again on January 11, 2027.
