What is the Delhi High Court ruling on Zydus Lifesciences' cancer drug?

The Delhi High Court permitted Zydus Lifesciences to manufacture and sell a biosimilar version of the cancer drug Nivolumab, making it significantly cheaper.

Why is Nivolumab important for cancer treatment in India?

Nivolumab is a successful immunotherapy drug effective against various cancers like lung, renal, and head and neck cancers, improving patient outcomes.

How much cheaper will Zydus's Nivolumab biosimilar be?

Zydus Lifesciences claims its biosimilar version could be up to 70% cheaper than the original patented drug, with annual treatment costs significantly reduced.

Home / Health / Cancer Drug Price Slashed: Zydus Wins High Court Battle

Cancer Drug Price Slashed: Zydus Wins High Court Battle

18 Jan

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Summary

Delhi High Court allowed Zydus Lifesciences to sell a cheaper biosimilar cancer drug.
The original drug, Nivolumab, is effective against lung, renal, and other cancers.
Zydus's biosimilar could be up to 70% cheaper than the patented version.

Cancer Drug Price Slashed: Zydus Wins High Court Battle

In a significant victory for patients, the Delhi High Court has authorized Zydus Lifesciences to manufacture and market a biosimilar version of the cancer drug Nivolumab. This landmark decision, reached on January 12, 2026, is expected to drastically reduce the cost of immunotherapy treatments in India.

Nivolumab, known for its efficacy against lung, renal, head and neck, and other cancers, was patented by Bristol Myers-Squibb (BMS) in India, with the patent set to expire in May 2026. Zydus Lifesciences had challenged BMS's patent, arguing that its biosimilar, Tishtha, would be approximately 70% cheaper.

The High Court's division bench prioritized public interest, noting that withholding such a life-saving therapy could cause irreparable prejudice to countless lives. This ruling enables Zydus to offer the drug at a substantially lower price point, potentially making it one-third to one-fourth of the current cost, thereby enhancing accessibility for Indian patients.