Point-wise summary of major pharma headlines
Published by: Rutul Patel - BPharm , MBA
Published On: 11 Feb 2026
Read Time: 3 Minutes
Pharmaceutical Industry NEWS - 12 February -2026
1) Supreme Court refuses to restrain Zydus biosimilar launch
- The Supreme Court of India declined to stop Zydus Lifesciences from selling its biosimilar version of nivolumab.
- The drug is a cancer immunotherapy originally patented by Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS).
- The Court asked BMS to approach the Delhi High Court for detailed patent-mapping and further relief.
- Court observation:
- BMS can be compensated financially if infringement is proven.
- Patients cannot be compensated if access to life-saving treatment is denied.
- Zydus stated its biosimilar:
- Is about 70% cheaper than the originator product.
- Does not substantially infringe the patent.
2) USV leads race to acquire Wellbeing Nutrition
- USV Pharma is in advanced talks to acquire D2C brand Wellbeing Nutrition.
- The deal values the startup at approximately ₹1,600 crore.
- Founder Avnish Chhabria may receive around ₹800 crore and continue leading operations.
- Key business highlights:
- FY25 revenue: about ₹119 crore.
- Net loss: about ₹38 crore.
- Strong growth in nutraceuticals, vitamins, and collagen segments.
- Early investors include HUL and Fireside Ventures.
3) India–US trade deal likely before March end
- India and the United States are expected to sign the legal framework of the trade agreement before the end of March.
- The deal aims to:
- Reduce tariffs on industrial and agricultural products.
- Improve bilateral market access.
- Expected coverage:
- Indian exports: textiles, plastics, chemicals, machinery, apparel.
- US exports: energy products, agricultural goods, and chemicals.
4) Automation and digitalisation reshaping life sciences
- Automation, AI, and digital workflows are becoming key drivers of growth in the life sciences sector.
- Industry insights indicate:
- Rising demand for advanced diagnostics and research tools.
- Investments in solution centres and innovation hubs.
- Key trends:
- Growth in GLP-1 therapies increasing need for integrated workflows.
- Focus on sustainability and circular economy practices.
- Expansion of advanced diagnostics and analytical capabilities.
5) Advanced excipients emerging as high-value opportunity
- Excipients are becoming strategic components in high-value drug formulations.
- Key drivers:
- Rise of biologics, complex generics, and specialty medicines.
- Need for better stability, delivery, and patient compliance.
- Industry direction:
- Shift toward functional and innovative excipients.
- Alignment with global regulatory and quality standards.
6) Indian biosimilars can restore access in underserved markets
- Experts say India can lead in biosimilars and complex generics globally.
- Competitive advantages:
- Strong manufacturing base.
- Cost-efficient production.
- Expanding regulatory capabilities.
- Key challenges:
- Need for higher R&D investment.
- Global regulatory alignment.
- Stronger supply-chain resilience.
Disclaimer:
This news summary is compiled from publicly available media reports and industry sources for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical, legal, or investment advice. Readers should refer to official announcements, regulatory filings, and professional advisors before making any decisions based on this information.