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Impact of poor-quality medicines in the 'developing' world
Paul N Newton1, Michael D Green, Facundo M Fernández
1Wellcome Trust-Mahosot Hospital-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Collaboration, Microbiology Laboratory, Mahosot Hospital, Vientiane, Lao PDR. paul@tropmedres.ac
Trends in Pharmacological Sciences
|February 2, 2010
Summary
Counterfeit and substandard medicines remain a persistent global health issue, particularly impacting developing nations. This neglected problem undermines therapeutic research and policy efforts, hindering access to quality medications.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Global Health
Background:
- Counterfeit and substandard medicines have plagued global trade for millennia.
- Historical examples include fake cinchona bark and quinine, impacting antimicrobial supply.
- This issue disproportionately affects patients in developing countries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the ongoing public health crisis posed by poor-quality drugs.
- To underscore the gap between therapeutic research/policy and medicine quality implementation.
- To emphasize the neglected nature of this vital global health problem.
Main Methods:
- This study is a review of historical and current issues surrounding substandard medicines.
- It synthesizes information on the impact of counterfeit drugs on public health.
- Analysis focuses on the disconnect between drug development and accessible quality medicines.
Main Results:
- Poor-quality medicines represent a critical, yet neglected, public health challenge.
- The problem persists globally, with significant impact in developing nations.
- A substantial gap exists between drug research/policy and the availability of genuine medicines.
Conclusions:
- Addressing the pervasive issue of counterfeit and substandard medicines is crucial for global health equity.
- Improved strategies are needed to bridge the gap between medicine development and patient access to quality treatments.
- Urgent attention and resources are required to combat this neglected public health threat.
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