Archive · 18 Jan 2026
Delhi High Court Allows Cheaper Cancer Drug in India
A Delhi High Court decision has allowed an Indian company, Zydus Lifesciences, to make a cheaper version of a popular cancer drug called Nivolumab.
This drug, currently sold by Bristol Myers-Squibb (BMS), is very effective against many types of cancer but is too expensive for most people in India.
The court decided in favor of Zydus because the drug's patent is about to expire and because making a cheaper version would help many patients.
The biosimilar version could cost up to 70% less, making it much more affordable.
This is good news for people who need this life-saving treatment.
Delhi High Court ruled in favor of Zydus Lifesciences to manufacture a cheaper biosimilar version of Nivolumab.
Nivolumab, sold as Opdivo/Opdyta by BMS, is effective against multiple cancers but is currently very expensive in India.
The patent for Nivolumab in India expires in May 2026, and the court considered public interest in its decision.
Zydus's biosimilar version of Nivolumab could be up to 70% cheaper, significantly reducing treatment costs for patients.
The court's decision was influenced by the imminent patent expiry and the potential to save many lives by making the drug more accessible.
- Who
- Bristol Myers-Squibb (BMS) and Zydus Lifesciences
- What
- Delhi High Court allows Zydus to manufacture a cheaper biosimilar version of Nivolumab
- When
- January 12, 2024 (court decision); Patent expiry in May 2026
- Where
- India
- Why
- To make the cancer drug more affordable and accessible to patients
- Drug Name
- Nivolumab (Opdivo/Opdyta)
- Manufacturer
- Bristol Myers-Squibb (BMS)
- Patent Expiry
- May 2026
- Biosimilar Manufacturer
- Zydus Lifesciences
- Cost Reduction
- Up to 70% cheaper
- Treatment Cost (Current)
- Rs 2-3.5 lakh per month
- Treatment Cost (Biosimilar)
- Rs 3.86-6.46 lakh per year
- Court Decision Date
- January 12