Cancer drug prices slashed: 679 brands see cuts exceeding 50%, consumers to save Rs 3,540 crore
Patients purchasing cancer medicines are set to receive significant financial relief following the implementation of revised maximum retail prices (MRPs) for 1,364 anti-cancer formulations from Monday.
The price revisions are expected to generate annual savings of approximately Rs 3,540.38 crore for consumers, according to an official announcement.
The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, has introduced trade margin caps covering 137 anti-cancer drugs. The decision follows recommendations made by an expert committee constituted by the Directorate General of Health Services under the Union Health Ministry.
The committee submitted its recommendations on October 17, 2026. As of November 8, a total of 85 pharmaceutical companies had reported revised prices covering 1,364 formulations across 121 drugs.
The government said that 679 medicine brands had registered price reductions exceeding 50 per cent. The maximum reported reduction stands at an impressive 96.45 per cent.
The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers clarified that retail pharmacies and hospital dispensaries cannot sell the affected medicines at prices higher than their revised MRPs.
Consumers have been advised to check the updated prices printed on medicine packaging. They can also use the Pharma Sahi Daam mobile application or visit the NPPA’s official website to verify medicine costs.
People who encounter overcharging or other violations can submit complaints through the Pharma Jan Samadhan portal. The NPPA has also provided a toll-free helpline, 1800-111-255, for consumers seeking assistance with medicine pricing issues.