Natco Pharma Shares Drop 3.5% as Supreme Court Lists Plea on Risdiplam Launch

Market Performance:

Natco Pharma shares saw a sharp decline of 3.5% on October 14, trading at Rs 808.70 on NSE by 12:20 pm. The drop comes amid heightened legal developments surrounding the launch of Natco’s Risdiplam drug, attracting market attention.

Main News:

The Supreme Court has agreed to urgently list a plea from Roche, the Swiss pharmaceutical company, challenging Natco Pharma’s launch of the spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) drug Risdiplam in India. The matter is expected to be taken up on either October 16 or 17.

This follows a decision by the Delhi High Court, which had previously allowed Natco Pharma to introduce the generic version of Risdiplam in India. Roche’s appeal at the High Court had been dismissed, enabling Natco to move forward with its launch.

Company Details:

Natco Pharma had been cleared to market the generic Risdiplam after a single-judge bench in March 2025 emphasized the importance of keeping the life-saving therapy affordable and accessible. The Court had highlighted challenges to Roche’s patent and the high pricing of the drug, which restricted access for the majority of patients.

Following the High Court ruling, Natco Pharma confirmed the immediate launch of Risdiplam at an MRP of Rs 15,900. Additionally, the company has planned patient support initiatives to provide discounts to deserving individuals through its patient access programme.

Key Highlights:

• Natco Pharma shares dropped 3.5% to Rs 808.70 on NSE.
• Supreme Court to list Roche’s plea on Risdiplam launch on October 16 or 17.
• Delhi High Court had dismissed Roche’s appeal, allowing the generic launch.
• Natco to sell Risdiplam at Rs 15,900 with potential patient discounts.
• Court emphasized public interest and affordability in its March 2025 ruling.

Summary:

Natco Pharma is at the center of a legal tussle over its Risdiplam launch, with market sentiment reacting to Roche’s plea in the Supreme Court. Despite the ongoing legal review, Natco has moved swiftly to ensure availability of the generic SMA drug at an affordable price for patients in India.