Photo: World Health Organization
Johnson & Johnson says it will not enforce patents for the lifesaving tuberculosis treatment bedaquiline in 134 low- and middle-income countries globally. The drug, an essential part of treatment for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, has been out of reach for millions of patients globally because the patent meant cost-effective generic versions of the drug were not available to many in lower-income countries. The announcement has the potential to reduce the price by at least 50%, greatly increasing its availability globally. "Johnson & Johnson's announcement is a heartening example of solidarity, and one that will make a real difference in the lives of the half-million people who newly fall sick with MDR-TB each year," said Partners In Health CEO Dr. Sheila Davis.
|
|
More:
