Zydus vs. Roche: Legal Battle Over Affordable Breast Cancer Treatments in India

Zydus vs. Roche: Legal Conflict Over Breast Cancer Treatments

Introduction

The legal tussle between Zydus Life Sciences and Roche over the biosimilar Sigrima, based on Roche’s Perjeta (Pertuzumab), brings to light the critical need for cost-effective cancer treatments. As HER2+ breast cancer cases rise in India, the importance of affordable biosimilars becomes more pronounced.

Rising HER2+ Breast Cancer Cases

GlobalData's Pharmaceutical Intelligence Centre reports that the number of five-year diagnosed prevalent cases of HER2+ breast cancer in India is expected to grow at an annual rate of 2.43%, from 114,393 in 2024 to 139,486 in 2033. This increase highlights the urgent need for accessible treatments.

Current Treatments and Costs

Available treatments targeting HER2+ include antibodies like trastuzumab and pertuzumab, often used in combination with chemotherapeutic agents for better efficacy. However, the costs of exclusive therapies like Roche’s Herclon, Kadcyla, Perjeta, and Phesgo range from $730 to $6,396, making them inaccessible for many.

Role of Biosimilars

Biosimilars offer a cost-effective alternative, marketed at prices 30-70% lower than innovator drugs. Zydus markets biosimilars for Herclon (Vivitra) and Kadcyla (Ujvira), significantly reducing treatment costs and improving accessibility.

The Legal Battle

Roche's complaint against Zydus alleges unauthorized procurement of reference drugs for clinical trials and patent infringement. Despite this, Zydus' Sigrima received approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and has been permitted for sale since June 2024.

Implications for the Future

The conflict underscores the necessity for affordable alternatives to exclusive targeted therapies. Multinational and local pharmaceutical companies must collaborate to drive innovation, improve accessibility, and raise awareness, ultimately saving lives and improving the quality of care for patients across India.

Conclusion

The Zydus-Roche dispute highlights the broader issue of drug affordability and accessibility in India. As breast cancer cases rise, the availability of cost-effective treatments like biosimilars is crucial. By addressing these challenges, India can better meet the healthcare needs of its population and improve outcomes for breast cancer patients.