Immunotherapy cost in India typically ranges between ₹1,50,000 to ₹4,50,000 per cycle, with total treatment costs reaching ₹10 lakhs to ₹50 lakhs or more. The price depends on factors such as the type of drug used, number of cycles, cancer stage, hospital location, and doctor expertise. Popular drugs like Keytruda and Nivolumab significantly influence overall treatment expenses.
Therefore, the cost of immunotherapy becomes an essential factor for the patient before undergoing the therapy. The cost may vary from patient to patient depending on several reasons. In this blog, we will discuss the cost of immunotherapy in India.
What is Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy treats cancer by enhancing or changing the immune response of patients to destroy cancerous cells. It most commonly treats lung cancer, melanoma, and kidney cancer, and various other types of cancer.
The treatment delivers better results because it targets specific cancer types, whereas chemotherapy presents more side effects and requires higher treatment costs.
Immunotherapy Cost in India
The immunotherapy cost in India depends on the type of medication, the duration of treatment, and even the institution.
Average Cost Range:
- Per cycle: ₹1,50,000 to ₹4,50,000
- Monthly cost: ₹3,00,000 to ₹8,00,000
- Total treatment cost (multiple cycles): ₹10 lakhs to ₹50 lakhs+
The cost of immunotherapy in India is usually lower than in Western countries, making India an ideal location for cancer treatment.
State-Wise Immunotherapy Cost in India
|
State / City |
Average Cost per Cycle |
|
Delhi / NCR |
₹1,50,000 – ₹4,50,000 |
|
Mumbai (Maharashtra) |
₹1,80,000 – ₹5,00,000 |
|
Bangalore (Karnataka) |
₹1,70,000 – ₹4,80,000 |
|
Chennai (Tamil Nadu) |
₹1,50,000 – ₹4,20,000 |
|
Hyderabad (Telangana) |
₹1,60,000 – ₹4,50,000 |
|
Kolkata (West Bengal) |
₹1,40,000 – ₹4,00,000 |
|
Ahmedabad (Gujarat) |
₹1,30,000 – ₹3,80,000 |
Note: Prices may vary depending on the hospital and the doctor's expertise.
Factors That Affect Immunotherapy Cost
1. Type of Drug Used
The cost of the drug varies depending on the type of drug. For example, the cost of the drug tends to be higher because it is a widely used, advanced immunotherapy drug.
2. Brand and Medication
Generally, the cost of imported drugs tends to be higher. For example, the cost of Keytruda in India tends to be higher compared to other drugs because it is a branded medication.
3. Number of Cycles Required
Immunotherapy tends to be done in cycles. The more the cycles required, the higher the cost.
4. Type and Stage of Cancer
Cancer in the advanced stage may need more cycles of treatment. Therefore, the cost may be higher.
5. Hospital and Location
Treatment in metro cities may be more expensive compared to small cities.
6. Doctor’s Expertise
More experienced Doctors may be more expensive but may also be more helpful.
7. Additional Costs
1. Diagnostic tests
2. Hospital stay
3. Supportive medications
These can add significantly to the total bill.
Common Immunotherapy Drugs and Their Cost
1. The price associated with Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) can range from Rs2,50,000 to Rs4,50,000 per dose.
2. The cost of Nivolumab can range from Rs 1,50,000 up to the amount of Rs 3,00,000.
3. The cost of Atezolizumab is between Rs 120,000 and 250,000 rupees for each dose.
The cost of pembrolizumab and Keytruda in India is often discussed, as it is among the frequently used medications.
Why is Immunotherapy Expensive?
1. Advanced research and development
2. High manufacturing cost
3. Limited availability of generic options
4. Personalized treatment approach
In spite of the above factors, the immunotherapy cost in India is still reasonable compared to the cost in the US or the UK.
Is Immunotherapy Covered by Insurance?
Some health insurance plans might cover some of the cost of the treatment. Nevertheless, it will depend on:
- Policy terms
- Kind of cancer
- Hospital network
The patient must consult with the insurance company before undergoing treatment.
Tips to Manage Immunotherapy Cost
- Select hospitals that offer packages
- You can ask about generic or alternative medicines
- Check for government schemes
- Consider medical loans or financial assistance programs.
Conclusion
Immunotherapy serves as a highly effective treatment method that presents considerable potential for numerous cancer patients, yet the Indian healthcare system requires comprehensive knowledge about immunotherapy costs to enable effective treatment development. The expenses of the procedure appear substantial, yet the resulting advantages and better health results make it a beneficial healthcare investment.
People who want to receive immunotherapy must first visit a specialist who has substantial experience in the field. The leading surgical oncologist of Gurgaon, Dr. Vinay Samuel Gaikwad, will assist you in developing an appropriate treatment strategy while he explains the associated treatment expenses in an understandable and supportive manner.
FAQs
Q1. What is the average cost of immunotherapy in India?
The average cost ranges from ₹1.5 lakh to ₹4.5 lakh per cycle.
Q2. Why is immunotherapy expensive?
Due to advanced research, high manufacturing cost, and personalized treatment approach.
Q3. Which is the most expensive immunotherapy drug?
Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) is among the most expensive drugs.
Q4. Is immunotherapy cheaper in India than abroad?
Yes, India offers significantly lower costs compared to the US and UK.
Q5. Can I reduce immunotherapy cost?
Yes, by choosing package hospitals, generic drugs, or financial assistance programs.