Zydus Lifesciences has achieved a significant milestone in cancer care by launching Tishta™, the world's first biosimilar nivolumab, in the Indian market. This groundbreaking development represents a major advancement in making advanced cancer therapies more accessible to patients across the country.

Product Launch and Pricing Strategy

The company has strategically positioned Tishta™ as an affordable alternative to existing cancer treatments. The biosimilar is available at two price points, offering flexibility for different treatment requirements and patient needs.

Market Impact and Accessibility

By pricing Tishta™ at roughly 25% of the original drug's cost, Zydus Lifesciences has created a substantial cost advantage for cancer patients. This significant price reduction is expected to make advanced cancer treatment accessible to a broader patient population who previously could not afford such therapies.

The company's ambitious target of helping over 500,000 patients demonstrates the scale of impact this launch could have on India's cancer care landscape. This patient reach represents a substantial expansion in access to nivolumab-based treatments.

Therapeutic Applications

Tishta™ has been developed for treating various types of cancers, expanding treatment options for oncologists and patients. As a biosimilar nivolumab, it offers the same therapeutic benefits as the original drug while maintaining the quality and efficacy standards required for cancer treatment.

Strategic Significance

This launch positions Zydus Lifesciences as a pioneer in biosimilar development, particularly in the oncology segment. Being the world's first biosimilar nivolumab represents a significant achievement in pharmaceutical innovation and could establish the company as a leader in affordable cancer care solutions.

The introduction of Tishta™ reflects the growing importance of biosimilars in making expensive biological drugs more accessible, particularly in emerging markets where cost considerations play a crucial role in treatment decisions.

Zydus Lifesciences is reportedly in discussions to acquire US-based biopharma company Ardelyx, according to sources familiar with the matter. The potential deal could see the Indian pharmaceutical giant acquire either a controlling stake in Ardelyx or purchase key molecules from the company, which currently holds a market capitalisation of $1.6 billion.

Funding Strategy for Acquisition

To support the potential acquisition, Zydus Life is exploring raising funds through a qualified institutional placement (QIP). The company's board of directors had previously approved raising up to ₹5,000 crore through this route on November 6, 2025.

During its second quarter conference call, Zydus Life had outlined that the QIP's primary objective would be to deleverage its balance sheet by reducing existing debt. The company also indicated potential opportunities to expand its US specialty business, particularly focusing on gastroenterology as a key therapeutic area.

Ardelyx's Commercial Portfolio

Ardelyx operates two FDA-approved commercial products in the US market, both based on the active ingredient tenapanor:

• IBSRELA (tenapanor): A prescription drug for adults with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation
• XYPHOZAH (tenapanor): A prescription medication for adults with chronic kidney disease

Revenue Projections and Market Outlook

Ardelyx has provided optimistic revenue projections for its flagship product IBSRELA. On January 8, 2026, the company announced that IBSRELA is expected to generate revenue between $410 million and $430 million in 2026, with projections indicating potential growth to $1 billion by 2029.

Strategic Alignment

The potential acquisition aligns with Zydus Life's stated strategic interests in expanding its US specialty business. The company has identified gastroenterology as a primary focus area, while also exploring opportunities in the central nervous system (CNS) and cardiology therapeutic spaces.

Market Response and Company Statements

Zydus Life shares were trading 0.4% lower at ₹877.25, with the stock having declined 12% over the past 12 months. When contacted for comment, Zydus Life stated it could not comment on speculation, while a response from Ardelyx remains pending.

The potential deal represents a significant strategic move for Zydus Life as it seeks to strengthen its presence in the US pharmaceutical market through targeted acquisitions in high-growth therapeutic areas.

Source: https://www.cnbctv18.com/market/zydus-life-share-price-ardelyx-acquisition-push-fund-raising-qip-5000-crore-timeline-19824422.htm