Cancer Shot India: A new immunotherapy drug has been launched in India, bringing significant relief to lung cancer patients. Let's learn more about it...

New immunotherapy launched in India

Cancer Shot India: In a serious disease like cancer, the treatment method is crucial for the patient and their family. Keeping this in mind, a new immunotherapy drug was recently launched in India, bringing significant relief to lung cancer patients. The biggest advantage of this drug is that it can now be injected into the body in just 7 minutes, whereas previously it was only available through a long IV (intravenous) infusion. So, let's find out how much the new immunotherapy injection launched in India costs.

What is the new immunotherapy injection?

The new immunotherapy injection is primarily for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). India reports approximately 81,000 new lung cancer cases each year, making this the most common type, but not everyone can receive this drug. It targets the PD-L1 protein, so only patients with high levels of the PD-L1 protein on their cancer cells can benefit. According to experts, approximately half of NSCLC patients are eligible for this treatment.

How does the medicine work?

T cells in our immune system recognize and destroy abnormal or harmful cells. However, many cancer cells express a protein called PD-L1, which confuses T cells and prevents them from attacking. Atezolizumab binds to this protein and blocks it. This allows T cells to recognize cancer cells again and eliminate them.

How effective is the new immunotherapy injection method?

Previously, this drug was administered as an IV infusion, requiring patients to stay in the hospital for hours. However, with the new subcutaneous injection technique, it can be administered in the thigh in just seven minutes. Experts say that five hospital patients can now receive treatment through an SC injection, compared to the time it would take for a single patient with an IV infusion. Patients are also appreciating this new method. Global studies show that four out of five patients choose an SC injection over an IV.

How much does the new immunotherapy injection launched in India cost?

The new immunotherapy injections launched in India are very expensive. A single dose costs approximately ₹3.7 lakh in India, and patients typically require six doses. However, a patient assistance program from a company called Blue Tree helps patients reduce costs. It is also covered under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS). The bio-equivalent dose for an SC injection is 1800 mg, while for an IV it is 1200 mg, resulting in a price difference of approximately ₹25,000 to ₹30,000.