1,364 cancer drug prices revised; consumers set to save Rs 3,540 crore a year

Revised Maximum Retail Prices (MRPs) of 1,364 anti-cancer formulations came into effect from Monday, with consumers expected to save Rs 3,540.38 crore annually, according to an official release.

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), which functions under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, capped trade margins on the MRP of 137 anti-cancer drugs. The decision was based on recommendations submitted on October 17, 2026, by an Expert Committee constituted by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.

As of November 8, 2026, 85 pharmaceutical companies had reported revised MRPs for 1,364 anti-cancer formulations across 121 drugs, according to the ministry.

Price reductions of more than 50 per cent have been reported for 679 brands. The highest reduction was 96.45 per cent, the Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers said in the release.

The ministry said chemists and hospital pharmacies are not permitted to charge more than the revised MRP.

Consumers can check medicine prices through the revised MRP printed on product packs, the ‘Pharma Sahi Daam’ mobile application or the official NPPA website, nppa.gov.in.

Complaints about overcharging and other medicine pricing issues can be submitted through the Pharma Jan Samadhan portal. Consumers can also contact the NPPA helpline at 1800-111-255, the release added.