# Keytruda, an immunotherapy drug, is being used to treat at least 19 types of tumours.

*biotech · news · 2026-04-14 · Firstpost*

## Key points

- An ICIJ investigation found Merck used lobbying to keep Keytruda prices high globally.
- Keytruda's primary patent expires in 2028, but follow-on patents could extend monopoly until 2042.
- Generic versions could reduce Keytruda's cost by up to 70% after patent expiry.
- A black market for counterfeit Keytruda has emerged in India, involving hospital staff and refilled vials.

**Companies:** Merck & Co
**Countries:** United States, India, Indonesia, France, Belgium, Bulgaria, Hungary

[Read the full story on Firstpost](https://www.firstpost.com/health/keytruda-cancer-drug-unaffordable-patent-14000295.html)

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