Health groups argue that Roche’s legal action to block generic supply jeopardises public interest by limiting access to affordable medication. File image for representation. | Photo Credit: Reuters Roche, a Swiss multinational healthcare company, is seeking a permanent injunction against Natco Pharma to prevent the introduction of a generic version of Risdiplam, a Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) drug, citing patent infringement. Health groups on Tuesday (November 5, 2024) argued that Roche’s legal action to block generic supply jeopardises public interest by limiting access to affordable medication. Roche’s patent for Risdiplam is effective until 2035, allowing them to charge approximately ₹6 lakh per bottle, while production costs suggest the drug could be made available for as low as ₹3,024 annually. Patient representatives and treatment activists have come together stating that government, courts, and lawmakers need to take urgent action to address the abuse of patent monopolies in rare diseases. They also noted that the monopoly on the drug could hinder the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s efforts to benefit from domestic production and competitive pricing …