DRUGS
Cancer drug prices to fall by up to 96% from November 9; consumers set to save Rs 3,502 crore annually
Starting November 9, consumers in India will benefit from significantly reduced prices on 137 anti-cancer drugs. The government has capped trade margins on these medications, leading to an estimated annual savings of Rs 3,502.31 crore for consumers. Price reductions have been reported across 1,225 formulations, with some reductions exceeding 50 percent.
Scientists gave mice an existing asthma drug before exposing them to peanut extract; 95% were protected from severe allergic reactions in the experiment
Researchers at Northwestern University found that the asthma drug Zileuton reduces allergic reactions in mice fed peanut extract. The study indicates that Zileuton could block the inflammation that leads to anaphylaxis. While it works in mice, clinical trials in humans are just beginning. This research highlights a new biological pathway related to food allergies and the immune response.
Russell Brand, a rape and sexual assault convict, has been a drug and alcohol addict in the past; here’s what we know about his notorious past
Russell Brand faced conviction for the rape of one woman and for sexually assaulting three others in a recent court ruling. While he was acquitted on two other rape counts and an attempted indecent assault charge, he has been remanded in custody without bail due to concerns of him fleeing the jurisdiction.
FDA flags persistent data-integrity lapses, insanitary conditions at Indian drug facilities
The US FDA continues to identify serious data integrity issues in Indian pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities. During inspections, inspectors found discarded documents related to key manufacturing processes, highlighting compliance concerns. To ensure safe medicines, drugmakers are urged to scrutinize their supply chains and monitor suppliers effectively. Additionally, human errors contributed significantly to production incidents, affecting operations and batch release timelines.
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I was offered coke at 11: Dafne Keen reveals the 'peer pressure' to do drugs she faced at Hollywood parties as a child actor
Dafne Keen, best known for playing Laura/X-23 alongside Hugh Jackman in Logan, has revealed that she was offered cocaine at Hollywood wrap parties when she was just 11, 12 and 13. Speaking on the Inside of You podcast, the 21-year-old actress explained how witnessing drug and alcohol culture as a child made her avoid substances. She also recalled lying about being high as a teenager to escape peer pressure to drink.
Centre proposes 10 new entry points for drug imports into India, Noida airport included
The Centre has proposed expanding India's authorised import network for pharmaceuticals and medical devices by adding ten new locations. These include Noida International Airport and several inland container depots across industrial hubs in India. This expansion aims to simplify the import process and reduce transportation costs for companies. The health ministry has invited public feedback on the draft amendment to Drugs Rules, 1945.
Dr Reddy's Laboratories receives ANVISA approval for generic semaglutide injection in Brazil
Dr Reddy’s Laboratories obtained marketing authorisation from Brazil’s ANVISA for a generic semaglutide injection. The product will be available as a pre-filled, multi-dose pen in two dosages for weekly administration. This drug targets treatment for type 2 diabetes alongside diet and exercise, particularly in patient groups needing alternative therapies. Brazil's diabetes prevalence creates significant market demand, estimated at approximately $244.6 million.
Govt plans instant ban on manufacturing of drugs failing key quality tests
Pharma companies could have their drug licenses suspended immediately if quality tests indicate failure. The health ministry's proposed changes aim to protect public health by enforcing swift action on substandard medications. Regulators would take action upon receiving a government analyst's report declaring a drug not of standard quality. Manufacturers would need to perform a root cause analysis and implement corrective actions to lift the suspension.
Punjab: Rahul Gandhi targets CM Bhagwant Mann over 'Nasha', says AAP govt run from Delhi
Rahul Gandhi launched the Congress campaign in Sangrur, criticizing Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's handling of addiction issues. He claimed that Mann's alleged alcohol use undermines efforts to combat substance abuse in Punjab. Gandhi accused AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal of controlling the Punjab government from Delhi, asserting that the state needs local leadership. He also challenged Union Home Minister Amit Shah's promises regarding drug eradication by 2029.
With most drug candidates failing in humans, India’s draft rules bet on the wrong science in animal lab testing
Recent draft rules in India threaten advancements in non-animal testing for drug development and safety. The new regulations may prioritize animal testing over innovative human-based methods, despite their proven reliability. Efforts to incorporate non-animal methodologies into national standards have gained support from various government initiatives. Significant funding has been allocated to promote alternative testing methods throughout the country.
'Mann smelled of alcohol in Parliament by 11 am', Rahul Gandhi launches all-out attack on AAP at Sangrur rally
Rahul Gandhi launched a campaign rally in Sangrur where he criticised Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Aam Aadmi Party for failing to address drug issues. He recalled earlier discussions about Punjab's drug crisis and asserted that AAP made promises but has not delivered results. Gandhi also expressed his disdain for BJP's tactics in Parliament, challenging Prime Minister Modi to debate openly on national issues.
‘Punjab’s remote control is in Delhi’: Rahul Gandhi attacks AAP, Bhagwant Mann over drugs; challenges PM for an open debate
Rahul Gandhi held an 'Insaaf Rally' in Sangrur, where he criticized the Aam Aadmi Party's governance in Punjab. He questioned Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's effectiveness in combating drug abuse, emphasizing that Punjab needs a state-focused government. Gandhi recalled his concern for slain singer Sidhu Moose Wala, highlighting the threats faced by talented individuals in the state.
NPPA updates list of reduced MRP of 1,085 anti-cancer drugs
The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority updated the maximum retail price for 1,085 anti-cancer medicines. This revision follows a previous decrease of prices for 543 anti-cancer drugs announced on October 28. The updated list contains prices based on information submitted by pharmaceutical companies up to November 3. The NPPA will continuously update this list as more manufacturers submit revised prices.
Wockhardt seeks 14-year data shield for India-made drugs
Mumbai-based Wockhardt has struck success in its innovative research on a range of antibiotic drugs, bridging a global pipeline gap for difficult-to-treat infections. In May this year, the company secured approvals from Indian and US drug regulators for a breakthrough drug, Zaynich (cefepime + zidebactam), to treat complicated urinary tract infection, including acute pyelonephritis or severe kidney infections. Wockhardt has showcased six drugs to treat antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Cancer drug prices fell in 2019 too, but mark-ups of up to 700% are back
The government's latest cancer drug price cuts may offer patients some relief, but the impact could be short-lived. An analysis of medicines covered in the 2019 exercise found that mark-ups had risen to as much as 700% by 2026, raising questions about whether one-time price cuts can keep cancer treatment affordable.
Blood pressure drug recall: FDA flags thousands of bottles after pills fail quality tests; here's what to check
A major recall has been initiated for certain blood pressure medications produced by Macleods Pharma USA. Patients are urged to verify their medications against specific lot numbers and reach out to their pharmacists. The FDA indicates that this recall stems from issues with dissolution specifications. Failure to comply with proper guidelines could pose serious health risks from unmanaged hypertension.
High Court restrains NPPA from action against AstraZeneca
The Delhi High Court has issued a temporary restraining order against the NPPA's actions toward AstraZeneca Pharma. This order remains in effect until the next hearing date, January 11. AstraZeneca has argued that its product may not fall under controlled drug prices. The NPPA has accused AstraZeneca of overcharging for the inhaler from May 2016 to November 2025. AstraZeneca denies these allegations and claims compliance with the price regulations.
"AAP finished in Punjab, Kejriwal and Mann brought about its collapse": Kunwar Vijay Pratap after joining BJP
Kunwar Vijay Pratap, along with two other AAP rebels, joined the BJP after resigning from the Assembly. He criticized the Aam Aadmi Party for its collapse in Punjab, stating it no longer exists. The resignations come ahead of the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections, with AAP recently announcing its first list of candidates. Singh emphasized his concerns about crime and drug issues in the state.
UC innovations make TIME’s Best Inventions of 2026: How a pancreatic cancer drug and smarter wheelchair are changing lives?
From a pancreatic cancer drug that targets KRAS mutations to a smarter power wheelchair, University of California research is reaching beyond laboratories. Daraxonrasib, developed from discoveries at UCSF, received FDA approval in August. Meanwhile, UC Berkeley alumnus Tony Hong’s Strutt ev¹ uses sensors and voice controls to make everyday mobility easier.
Sun Pharma ordered to halt eye drug production at Assam plant over quality lapses: Report
Indian regulators have ordered Sun Pharmaceutical Industries to stop manufacturing ophthalmic products at the Assam facility. This decision followed the discovery of failures in the company's quality management system. A joint inspection cited lapses that affected drug safety and quality, leading to a recall of several eye-drop brands. Significant adverse cases have raised concerns regarding product contamination, prompting further investigation.
NPPA list brings little relief: No price cut for 25% cancer drugs
Nearly one in four cancer drug packs in the NPPA’s revised price list will see no reduction in MRP, even as the overall average cut across 643 packs is 38.22%. Several high-cost patented medicines remain unchanged, prompting patient advocates to question how much relief the trade-margin cap will actually deliver when the new prices take effect on November 9.
India's pharma exports rise 4.9% to USD 16.14 bn in H1; shipments to Europe up nearly 10%: Pharmexcil
India's pharmaceutical exports increased nearly 5 percent, reaching USD 16.13 billion in the first half of the fiscal year. Growth was driven by strong demand from Europe, ASEAN, and Latin America. Shipments included drug formulations, biologicals, bulk drugs, and surgical products. Exports to key regions, particularly Europe and ASEAN, rose significantly during this period. Industry leaders emphasized the need for India to enhance its pharmaceutical innovation and manufacturing capabilities.
Cancer drug price cuts leave costly brands untouched
Prices of several anti-cancer drugs are set to fall significantly starting November 9, offering some financial relief. However, the prices of top-selling patented treatments will remain unchanged after the revision by the NPPA. Generic cancer drugs will experience steep reductions, with some seeing over a 10-fold decrease in price. The Supreme Court is hearing petitions aimed at regulating high trade margins charged by hospitals.
Cancer care can be cheaper: 6 steps to cut drug costs
India has capped trade margins at 30% on 137 non-scheduled anti-cancer drugs to reduce treatment costs. Experts call for standardised care, quality checks, cost-effective medicines and pooled procurement to improve affordability.
Anthropic's Claude cut Enveda's drug records' review time by 89%
Colorado-based biotechnology company Enveda developed a CMC Document Processor to help reviewers identify errors, inconsistencies and potential quality issues across these records.
US military says strike on suspected drug-trafficking vessel in Eastern Pacific kills five
On Tuesday, the US military executed an air strike on a vessel believed to be involved in drug trafficking. This operation resulted in the death of five individuals who were on board the targeted vessel.
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