Biosimilar nivolumab slashes cost, expands immunotherapy access in India

In the past half-year, Indian oncologists have begun prescribing immunotherapy more often thanks to an affordable biosimilar of nivolumab, a drug effective against about 25 tumour types. Physicians such as Imran Shaikh note a surge of over 50% in prescriptions, with patients now able to afford a cycle for roughly Rs 30,000 instead of more than a lakh. Studies from Tata Memorial Centre indicate that lower doses may work well for Indian patients, further reducing costs.

Nonetheless, only seven checkpoint inhibitors are available in India compared with 35 in China, and hospitals may favor higher-margin original drugs. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority's upcoming margin caps on 137 anti-cancer medicines could save Rs 2,500 crore annually, but whether these savings reach patients depends on pharmacy stocking decisions. Experts stress that broader access will hinge on both price reductions and evidence-based dosing strategies.