Big relief for cancer patients! The prices of 137 medicines have increased, the new prices will be applicable from November 9

The government’s decision to cap the trade margin will see a major reduction in the prices of 137 anti-cancer drugs from November 9. This will save the customers approximately Rs. 3,502.31 crore will be saved. According to an official statement issued by the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has fixed trade margin limits on 137 anti-cancer drugs. The decision was taken following recommendations made on October 17 by an expert committee constituted under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).

According to the statement, so far 76 pharmaceutical companies have submitted revised maximum retail prices (MRP) for 1,225 formulations of 121 drugs. Of these, 1,031 formulations have seen price reductions. Prices of around 600 brands have fallen by more than 50 percent, with the largest drop being 96.45 percent. Around 10-15 branded drugs, which are yet to be introduced in India, will also be subject to price cap under Trade Margin Rationalization (TMR) once they hit the market.

Which drug reduced its price by how much?

This decision has brought down the prices of many important drugs used in the treatment of cancer.

1. RPG Life Sciences’ capsule drug ‘Palbopro’ (Palbociclib 125 mg) used in the treatment of breast cancer is priced at Rs. 40,421.33 to Rs. 2,720 has been done.
2. Arvincare Pharma’s tablet ‘Abirone’ (abiraterone acetate 250 mg) used in the treatment of prostate cancer is priced at Rs. 41,250 down to Rs. 3,218.23 has been done.
3. The price of Zydus Lifesciences’ injection ‘Brixta’ (Bevacizumab 100 mg), used in the treatment of lung and cervical cancer, has come down to Rs 3,318 from Rs 25,995.
4. Reliance Life Sciences’ ‘Danostiorel’ (Denosumab 60 mg) is priced at Rs. 24,955 down to Rs. 6,240 has been done.
5. Lupine Ltd’s injection ‘Lupiher 2’ (pertuzumab 420 mg), used in the treatment of breast cancer, will now cost Rs 37,358.30 as against Rs 83,520.

According to the statement, retailers, drug distributors and hospitals will have to display the revised price list on their premises and websites. The State Drug Controllers have been entrusted with the responsibility of monitoring the compliance of this order.