India Launches ‘Made in India’ Drugs for Rare Diseases, Revolutionizing Treatment Accessibility

India Launches 'Made in India' Drugs for Rare Diseases, Revolutionizing Treatment Accessibility

VoM News Desk | November 24, 2023 | 10:54 PM IST | Health | Follow on Google News

India Launches ‘Made in India’ Drugs for Rare Diseases, Revolutionizing Treatment Accessibility

India Launches ‘Made in India’ Drugs for Rare Diseases, Revolutionizing Treatment Accessibility

The Indian government has taken a significant step in healthcare by initiating the manufacturing of four types of ‘Made in India’ drugs for rare diseases. This initiative marks a major breakthrough in making treatments for rare diseases more accessible and affordable in the country.

Focus on 13 Rare Diseases and Sickle Cell Disease

In a strategic move, the government prioritized 13 rare diseases along with sickle cell disease for this initiative. The decision, taken in July 2022, followed extensive discussions with academia, pharmaceutical industries, organizations, and the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO).

Substantial Cost Reduction in Drug Prices

This initiative is set to bring about a monumental cost reduction in treatments. Drugs that were earlier costing around 2.5 crore rupees can now be procured for approximately 2.5 lakh rupees in India, marking a 100-fold decrease in prices.

Domestic Production of Essential Drugs

Previously, all drugs for treating rare diseases were imported and expensive. The Health Ministry’s initiative will significantly lower these costs, making treatments more accessible. For instance, a 2 mg tablet costing 5 lakh rupees from Sweden will be available for 6,500 rupees in India.

Types of Rare Diseases and Drug Availability

India reports cases of Tyrosinemia type 1, Gaucher’s disease, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, among other rare diseases. Currently, generic drugs for conditions like Tyrosinemia Type, Gaucher’s Disease, Wilson’s Disease, and seizures related to Dravet or Lennox Gastaut Syndrome are available in India. More drugs are expected to be available next year.

Affordable Treatment Options and Global Learnings

India’s approach to low-cost drug manufacturing for rare diseases is influenced by successful models from other countries. This initiative is a game-changer, significantly reducing the financial burden on families and enhancing access to essential treatments.

VoM News Desk

VoM News is an online web portal in jammu Kashmir offers regional, National & global news.