Prices of 1,364 cancer drug formulations cut by up to 96.45%, patients to save Rs 3,540 crore a year

The Centre has taken a key decision to reduce spending on medicines in cancer treatment. Revised maximum retail prices for 1,364 cancer drug formulations have been implemented. A cap has also been placed on the trade margins of 137 anti-cancer drugs. The Centre has expressed hope that the decision will save patients about Rs 3,540.38 crore every year.

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), which works under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, has capped trade margins on the maximum retail price of 137 anti-cancer drugs. The decision is based on the recommendations of an expert committee set up by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). The committee was constituted on October 17, 2026.

According to the ministry, 85 drug companies had by November 8 submitted revised maximum retail prices for 1,364 anti-cancer formulations covering 121 drugs. The prices of 679 brands have been cut by more than 50 per cent. The maximum retail price of some drugs has fallen by as much as 96.45 per cent.

All the revised prices have come into effect from November 9. Patients buying medicines for cancer treatment are therefore expected to get financial relief.

On checking prices, it has been stated that customers can see the revised maximum retail price printed on the medicine packet. Prices of medicines can also be checked on the "Pharma Sahi Daam" mobile app or on the official NPPA website.

Under the rules, no chemist or hospital pharmacy can charge more than the revised maximum retail price. Customers have therefore been urged to check the revised price printed on the packet when buying medicines.