[Development of an antihypertensive agent. Methodology and cost]

This schematic analysis demonstrates the great increase in the cost and time required to develop a new molecule, factors which therefore limit the development of new therapeutic methods. The patent period is shorter so that the period of commercialisation of a product by a single drug company is more and more limited. Therefore the situation may occur where the costs of development will no longer be covered. (In addition, the costs of research not leading to a marketable product have not been taken into account).