NPPA Caps Margins on 137 Cancer Medicines; Revised Prices From November 2026

Cancer patients and their families struggling with the high cost of treatment may get major relief, with preparations underway to reduce the prices of 137 medicines. New prices are set to come into effect from 9 November 2026.

According to a decision by the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), the trade margin on 137 identified non-scheduled anti-cancer medicines has been capped at 30 percent of the maximum retail price, or MRP. The aim of the move is to make cancer medicines more affordable for patients.

The decision covers non-scheduled anti-cancer medicines. Some expensive medicines, including certain immunotherapy and targeted cancer drugs, are also included in its scope.

According to the claims made about the decision, the prices of some medicines could see a significant reduction. However, it is not necessary that the prices of all the medicines will fall by 70 percent. The actual reduction will vary from one medicine to another. It will depend on the medicine’s existing price and the margins applied across its supply chain.

The expected reduction has been placed in the range of 20 to 70 percent, but the exact cut will depend on the current price of each medicine. Drug companies, hospitals and retail sellers will have to implement the revised prices from 9 November 2026.

The authorities have also made arrangements for monitoring the prices. Patients will be able to check the revised rates on the NPPA website and through the Pharma Sahi Daam app.

The government has said that the purpose of the initiative is to reduce the financial burden of cancer treatment while maintaining the availability of essential medicines. Patients have been advised to check the new MRP applicable from 9 November before buying their medicines.