Sri Lanka climbs cost of drugs 40% in the midst of monetary emergency

Sri Lanka has forcefully expanded costs of ordinarily utilized prescription, the second such ascent in about a month and a half, as it battles to manage a financial emergency.

Anti-infection agents, certain pain relievers and prescription for heart conditions are among those hit by a 40% increase.

Sri Lankans have needed to take short courses of drugs or look abroad for provisions.

The public authority says it has no other choice than to expand the expense of drug items.

It follows measures to help slow the depletion of foreign exchange reserves amid a crippling financial crisis.

Among the measures were restrictions or bans on the import of some essential goods, including foods and medicines.

Some fear that even for those willing and able to pay higher prices, some medication is in short supply.