Zydus Lifesciences launches world's first nivolumab biosimilar in India, boosting cancer treatment affordability

Ahmedabad-based drug maker Zydus Lifesciences has launched the world’s first biosimilar of key oncology drug nivolumab in India. The drug is used to treat multiple types of cancer.

The biosimilar version of the blockbuster drug, patented by US pharmaceutical major Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), will be priced at approximately one-fourth the cost of the innovator drug, thus making it affordable and accessible to a larger number of patients in the country.

To be sold under the name Tishtha, the drug will be priced at Rs 28,950 for 100 mg dosage and Rs 13,950 for 40 mg dosage.


“We believe every patient deserves timely access to affordable, advanced cancer care. With the launch of Tishtha, we are expanding access to immuno-oncology through a patient-centric therapy,” said Sharvil P Patel, managing director, Zydus Lifesciences.

Earlier this month in a crucial verdict in favour of the Indian drug maker, the Delhi High Court cleared the way for Zydus to manufacture and sell the biosimilar, delivering a significant boost to the company just before the patent expires. BMS’ Indian patent for the drug is due to expire on May 2.

A division bench set aside an earlier single-judge order that had temporarily restrained Zydus from making and selling the biosimilar. The HC observed that access to affordable treatment could not be denied to patients, paving the way for Zydus’ nivolumab launch.

Nivolumab, marketed globally as Opdivo, is currently sold in India under patent protection.