Keytruda Black Market Racket Exposed: Fake Cancer Drugs Sold Using Refilled Vials

Keytruda, an immunotherapy drug used in treating multiple cancers, is priced at over ₹1.5 lakh per vial, making it unaffordable for many patients and pushing them toward cheaper, unverified sources.

In one case, a cancer patient’s family purchased multiple vials at a lower price, only to later find that the drugs were fake and contained antifungal medication instead of the intended cancer treatment.

Investigations have pointed to a network involving pharmacists, middlemen, and insiders who allegedly collect used or empty vials from hospitals, refill them with other substances, reseal them, and sell them as genuine products using original batch details.

Authorities have also traced links between counterfeit vials and authentic batches used in major hospitals, suggesting leakages within hospital supply chains. Raids have led to the recovery of filled and empty vials along with packaging materials, indicating a well-organised operation.

The probe, based on detailed examination of records and interactions with healthcare professionals, has highlighted significant regulatory lapses in monitoring and disposal of high-value medicines, reports The Indian Express.

Experts have warned that such practices pose serious risks, as patients may receive ineffective or harmful substances instead of life-saving therapies, underlining the need for stricter oversight and safeguards.