Kerala HC seeks experts’ opinions on affordable breast cancer drugs

Kerala High Court sought expert opinions from four institutions on substituting cheaper off-patent breast cancer drug Palbociclib for costlier patented Ribociclib.

The court examined whether patients can be denied life-saving treatment due to high cost of patented medicines.

Palbociclib, formerly patented by Pfizer, costs ₹2,000-₹8,000 for 21 capsules, while Novartis's Ribociclib costs ₹17,000-₹25,000.

Amicus curiae urged the Union government to consider compulsory licensing under Patents Act Sections 92 and 100.

Drug manufacturers opposed, citing a 2022 government order recognizing Palbociclib as a substitute.