Zydus Lifesciences has launched the world’s first biosimilar of Nivolumab in India, marking a major milestone in advanced biologics and Immuno-Oncology. The drug, branded Tishtha, is expected to significantly improve access to life-saving cancer treatment by sharply reducing costs for patients.

 

Tishtha will be available in 100 mg and 40 mg strengths, priced at ₹28,950 and ₹13,950 respectively—around one-fourth the cost of the reference drug. The pricing is expected to ease the financial burden on patients while supporting long-term treatment adherence. The dual-strength offering will also allow oncologists to optimise dosing and minimise wastage, a key factor in the economics of immunotherapy.

 

Announcing the launch, Dr Sharvil P. Patel, Managing Director, Zydus Lifesciences, said, “At Zydus, we believe every patient deserves timely access to affordable, advanced cancer care. With the launch of Tishtha, we are expanding access to Immuno-Oncology through a patient-centric therapy. Our aim is to support patients with consistent care throughout their treatment journey. We remain committed to improving patient access to high-quality biosimilar immunotherapies.”

 

Access to modern cancer treatment hinges on three factors—consistency, affordability and reach. Checkpoint inhibitors such as Nivolumab are administered over multiple cycles, making uninterrupted availability critical to both clinical outcomes and financial stability for patients and their families. Any disruption in therapy can intensify medical risk and emotional stress.

 

Developed and manufactured in India, Tishtha is designed to ensure reliable, long-term supply for patients undergoing extended treatment. By bringing a biosimilar of Nivolumab to the Indian market, Zydus is expanding access to advanced Immuno-Oncology therapies and reinforcing its position as a global player in affordable biologics.