Zydus Life Launches Tishtha, World’s First Nivolumab Biosimilar, at One-Quarter of Reference Cost

Zydus Lifesciences Ltd has launched the world’s first biosimilar of Nivolumab in India under the brand name Tishtha, the company informed exchanges in a regulatory filing. The Ahmedabad-based company announced the product will treat multiple cancers and stated that the launch reinforces its capability in advanced biologics and immuno-oncology.

The immunotherapy will be available in two dosages: 100 mg priced at ₹28,950 and 40 mg priced at ₹13,950. The company noted in the filing that these prices are approximately one-quarter of the cost of the reference drug. Zydus stated this pricing aims to improve affordability and reduce the treatment burden for patients. The filing added that the two-strength portfolio allows oncologists to optimise dosing and minimise wastage, which the company identified as a key driver of treatment economics in immunotherapy.

According to the company,  Tishtha will be developed and manufactured in India and expects the product to benefit more than 500,000 patients.  The company further added that it has positioned the introduction of Tishtha as an expansion of access to advanced immuno-oncology treatment in India.