Health News

Generic Versions of Novartis’ Drug against CML under Way

Nilotinib – the drug used for treating chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), will now become more affordable. Thanks to the Medicines Patent Pool (MPP), which has signed sublicence agreements with four companies––three from India and one from Indonesia––to produce generic versions of the Novartis' cancer drug. The licensees include – Eugia, Hetero, and Dr. Reddy's Laboratories in India and the Indonesia-based BrightGene. This move aims to enhance the accessibility and affordability of the treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).

The agreements mark the first sublicence agreements for cancer treatment by MPP, resulting from a license agreement between MPP and Novartis Pharma AG in October 2022. Hereon, the selected manufacturers can produce generic versions of Nilotinib in India and seven middle-income countries, supplying them to 44 territories included in the license. The license also covers developing and supplying generic Nilotinib in countries where patents are pending or in force. 

By expanding access to affordable treatments, MPP aims to address the rising cancer rates in low- and middle-income countries. This initiative aligns with the Access to Oncology Medicines (ATOM) Coalition, emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships to overcome healthcare barriers and provide innovative treatment solutions to people worldwide.