New Delhi, Nov. 7 -- Revised maximum retail prices for key anti-cancer formulations take effect across the country on November 9, delivering an estimated annual financial relief of over Rs 3,500 crore to patients and their families.

The price reduction follows the regulatory decision by the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), functioning under the Department of Pharmaceuticals in the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, to cap trade margins on the retail prices of 137 anti-cancer medicines.

The action is based on recommendations submitted by an Expert Committee constituted by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

According to the Ministry of Chemicals and Fert...