MEDICINES
Pharma & healthcare funds top mutual fund return charts with over 19% gains. Should investors invest now or wait for a correction?
Pharma and healthcare mutual funds have topped return charts in 2026 with over 19% gains. While strong sector growth supports the outlook, experts caution against chasing the rally and advise investors to assess valuations, risks and portfolio exposure.
Sichuan Neautus shares surge 119% in Hong Kong IPO debut
Sichuan Neautus Traditional Chinese Medicine shares soared in their Hong Kong debut after the company raised HK$262 million through an IPO. Strong retail investor demand, reflected in massive oversubscription, drove the stock sharply higher despite weakness in the broader market.
BDR Pharma to acquire Acme’s oral solid formulations business
BDR Pharma will acquire a controlling stake in Acme Formulation’s oral solid formulations business from existing shareholders, led by private equity firm PAG. The deal will strengthen BDR’s contract development and manufacturing (CDMO) platform by adding capabilities in thyroid, women’s healthcare and general medicines.
Delhi air pollution: Health experts warn of health risks as even healthy people report symptoms
Doctors from AIIMS and Apollo Hospitals report that Delhi's severe air pollution causes respiratory issues among healthy individuals. Dr. Vijay Hadda emphasizes that green crackers only partially mitigate harmful emissions from conventional firecrackers. Young people aged 20-50 are also complaining of symptoms, indicating widespread health effects. Continuous exposure to high pollution levels can lead to persistent symptoms appearing within hours.
Over 1,300 anti-cancer drugs to get cheaper
India's National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority is set to cap trade margins on anti-cancer drugs starting November 2026. The initiative aims to save around ₹2,500 crore annually for cancer patients. The list includes 1,366 drug brands, with substantial price reductions for several high-cost medications. However, some patented drugs will maintain their prices despite the changes. Patients and medical institutions are directed to display revised prices prominently.
NASA is hiring astronauts for future Moon missions: Who can apply, what tests must you pass and how to get selected?
NASA is recruiting its next class of astronauts, with selected candidates potentially preparing for future Moon missions and living at a lunar base. The agency is accepting applications from qualified US citizens, including candidates with master's-level nursing degrees. Here's a look at the eligibility criteria, experience requirements, $164,395 starting salary and application deadline.
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NASA job applications: $164,395 salary for astronaut posts as selected candidates can live on Moon and Mars; check direct link, eligibility and deadline
NASA astronaut applications: NASA has opened applications for its next astronaut class, with selected candidates potentially getting the opportunity to live and work on a future Moon base and participate in missions to Mars. Here's a look at the $164,395 annual salary, eligibility criteria, application requirements and December 3 deadline.
Cancer drug prices revised from today; patients may save Rs 3,540 crore annually
The government has revised the prices of 1,364 anti-cancer medicine formulations effective from November 9. This decision aims to limit trade margins and reduce consumer costs for cancer drugs. According to official reports, this measure is expected to save consumers Rs 3,540.38 crore each year.
Morepen Laboratories launches Desloratadine (Rx) generic drug product in US market
Morepen Laboratories has launched its prescription generic product Desloratadine in the United States market. This launch is managed through the company's subsidiary, Morpen Bio. Inc. The product will be available in 100-count and 500-count packs to consumers. Additionally, Morepen has submitted an Abbreviated New Drug Application for Sitagliptin Phosphate Tablets to the US FDA. The submission is currently undergoing regulatory review, which is an important step for their expansion.
Pharma industry steps up API investments to cut import dependence, move up value chain
India's pharmaceutical sector is shifting towards high-value medicines and reducing reliance on imports through local manufacturing. Investments in active pharmaceutical ingredients and advanced therapies are on the rise to meet new healthcare demands. Industry leaders highlight the significance of supply-chain resilience and advancements in manufacturing capabilities. Recent data indicates strong domestic market growth and increasing pharmaceutical exports.
Rich countries benefitted more from COVID-19 vaccine's return on investment than poor ones: Study
COVID-19 vaccines generated economic benefits worth USD 60 to USD 809 for every dollar invested in their development and distribution, a global study of 173 countries has found. However, high-income countries gained more due to earlier access and faster rollouts, while delayed vaccine availability limited benefits in poorer nations.
UPSC Success Stories: He cracked AIIMS at 16, cleared UPSC at 22, and left IAS at 24 to build a nearly ₹2,000 crore startup
At just 16, Roman Saini achieved a remarkable feat by clearing the AIIMS entrance examination, and later, he conquered the UPSC Civil Services Examination. Along with his co-founders, he launched Unacademy, a platform dedicated to democratizing education. What began as a YouTube channel has transformed into a valuable online learning hub, boasting a valuation of ₹1,700 crore to ₹1,897 crore following its acquisition by upGrad.
Who are Dominic Roy and Cooper Bruce? Tulane University students discover new muscle attachment that could reshape hip surgery
In a groundbreaking discovery, Tulane University students Dominic Roy and Cooper Bruce uncovered a new muscle attachment during a cadaver dissection. This pelvic structure holds potential implications for understanding hip pain and surgical procedures. Collaborating with Dr. R Shane Tubbs, they validated their findings through further examinations. This breakthrough could reshape treatment strategies for hip-related ailments, igniting Roy and Bruce's aspirations to enter the medical field.
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.
2026 Midterm election results Senate: Melania Trump skips Donald Trump's election night party; here's what she was doing as Republicans lost Congress
US First Lady Melania Trump was notably absent from Donald Trump's election-night gathering at the White House as Republicans suffered a major setback in the midterm election results, losing control of both the Senate and House. Instead of joining the President, Melania focused on her independent diplomatic initiative to secure a ceasefire in Russia-controlled Oleshky, Ukraine.
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.
US Midterm Elections 2026: From Ami Bera to Pia Dandiya, Meet Indian-Americans who won amid Democratic blue sweep
The 2026 US Midterm Elections marked a transformational shift within Congress, as the Democrats regained control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. A wave of Indian-American candidates, including Ami Bera and Pramila Jayapal, celebrated remarkable victories at congressional and state levels, championing critical issues like immigration reform.
Iran lifts Hormuz transit curbs for ships from India, China, Iraq and Qatar, could ease pressure on India’s oil and gas supply
Iran has announced the lifting of transit restrictions for vessels from India, China, Iraq, and Qatar. This decision aims to enhance regional cooperation and facilitate trade, particularly in medicines from India. Iranian officials have noted that American forces do not intercept these ships, showing Tehran's strategic interests.
Low vitamin C intake during pregnancy linked with negative emotions in infants: Study
Mothers with lower vitamin C intake during pregnancy were more likely to have fussy infants at six months. Supplemental vitamin C intake can mediate these negative emotions and support healthy brain development. The study analyzed data from over 300 pregnant women, focusing on nutrition and maternal mental health. Researchers suggest that this nutritional change is easily modifiable and can benefit families significantly.
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.
Iran says Indian ships exempt from Strait of Hormuz restrictions, urges military to consider Qatar peace proposal
Iran has exempted Indian vessels from restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, along with ships from China, Iraq, and Qatar. The exemption aims to facilitate India's medicine imports while acknowledging China's political and economic relations. Senior Iranian leaders are advocating for a Qatari-brokered proposal to prevent renewed conflict with the United States. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, despite assessments suggesting a renewed conflict may be likely.
Dhanteras 2026: Why Lord Dhanvantari Is Worshipped Alongside Goddess Lakshmi — The Ayurveda Connection Explained
Dhanteras is a vibrant festival that celebrates prosperity and well-being, honoring Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari. Coinciding with Dhanvantari Jayanti, this day highlights the importance of good health as foundational to success. Festivities include acts of devotion, special prayers, and rituals focused on wealth and wellness. In 2026, Dhanteras will be observed on November 6, just ahead of the grand Diwali celebrations.
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.
Sun Pharma’s specialty portfolio, Organon deal to drive growth
Sun Pharmaceutical achieved notable revenue growth in the September quarter, driven by strong performance in India and specialty medicines. The company anticipates medium-term growth from therapies like Ilumya and ongoing innovative projects. Although profitability was affected by acquisition and litigation costs, the domestic market share increased to 8.6% from last year. R&D investments are expected to rise in the second half of FY27 as development accelerates.
India’s medicine sales grow in double digits for four straight quarters, led by chronic care drugs
Over the past four quarters, India's medicine sales have increased significantly due to rising demand in chronic care segments. The growth rate reached 12% year-on-year in the September quarter, showing a positive trend in the industry. Larger pharmaceutical companies have benefited from the shutdown of many non-compliant smaller units. Budgets were also boosted by a reduction in GST on medicines.
Karnataka govt pauses circular on medicine price disclosure by hospitals
In a significant move, the Karnataka government declared it would not proceed with a disputed circular aimed at mandating hospitals to disclose medicine pricing information. This decision emerged during a High Court review related to the circular's compliance and repercussions. The proposal required hospitals to clearly present procurement costs, MRP, and patient billing in their invoices.
India’s drug pricing policy must balance affordability, medicine availability and pharma industry growth
The Government of India has recently capped trade margins on anti-cancer medicines at 30%. This decision has reignited the ongoing discussion about drug pricing and accessibility. The existing regulatory framework aims to provide affordable medicines while supporting the pharmaceutical industry. Ensuring pricing transparency and targeted interventions can help address excessive margins in the supply chain. The ultimate goal remains to enhance patients' access to quality medicines at reasonable prices.
Anti-cancer medicines: How to protect the patient today without weakening India's healthcare capacity for tomorrow
India should examine trade margins across medicines, medical devices and consumables using a common, scientifically credible method - not a one-size-fits-all formula - to identify where and how intervention is needed. Meaningful stakeholder consultation must form part of this exercise to help design a framework that is both effective and workable. It can ensure that unjustified margins are addressed while recognising legitimate differences in clinical settings, infrastructure, safety requirements, geographical reach and the cost of delivering quality care.
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