Patent Monopolies Limit Access to Affordable Rare Disease Drugs
Indian Economic Updates : Patent Monopolies Limit Access to Affordable Rare Disease Drugs
Patient advocates and treatment groups have raised concerns over patent monopolies for rare disease drugs, urging government, courts, and lawmakers to act against their abuse. Swiss drugmaker Roche is seeking a permanent injunction to block. citing patent infringement. Health groups argue Roche's actions hinder access to affordable medication. Roche’s patent for Risdiplam runs until 2035, with the drug costing about 6 lakh per bottle, though production costs suggest it could be far cheaper. Advocates are calling for government intervention to support generic production and competitive pricing for rare disease treatments in India and low-income countries.
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