Mylan and Biocon claim Roche abused its market dominance to quash generic breast cancer antibodies

India’s Competition Commission has ordered an investigation into Swiss pharma major Roche for allegedly using its dominant position to block entry of low-cost alternatives of breast cancer antibody trastuzumab (marketed under various names, including Herceptin).

The investigation comes in response to a complaint filed by Indian biotech Biocon and US generics specialist Mylan. The two companies have partnered to sell biosimilars of trastazumab in several countries, including India, and have been contesting litigation over the issue since 2014.

Mylan and Biocon have alleged that Roche, in a bid to foil competition, made misrepresentations before doctors, hospitals, and regulators which led to confusion and apprehension about the safety and efficacy of the biosimilar versions.

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