Pharmaceutical research and development: a new system is needed

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Research and Development
• Public Health Policy
• Health Economics

Background:

• The existing pharmaceutical R&D model, active since the late 20th century, faces significant limitations.
• New drugs are often unaffordable and offer marginal or no therapeutic advantage to patients.
• Criticism stems from non-governmental organizations, international institutions, and health technology assessment agencies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the current pharmaceutical R&D system.
• To propose reforms and alternative systems for more accessible and affordable medicines.
• To align R&D with global public health needs.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of current R&D system flaws and limitations.
• Review of proposals for system reform from various organizations.
• Examination of policy recommendations for price controls and intellectual property flexibilities.
• Discussion of long-term global mechanisms for needs-driven R&D.

Main Results:

• The current system's ineffectiveness in delivering affordable, beneficial drugs is highlighted.
• Key proposals include price controls, intellectual property adjustments, and marketing authorization based on therapeutic advance.
• Long-term solutions involve public funding, delinking R&D costs from prices, and a global R&D observatory.

Conclusions:

• The pharmaceutical R&D system requires substantial overhaul to ensure drug affordability and accessibility.
• A shift towards a global, needs-driven R&D approach is essential.
• International collaboration and policy interventions are crucial for achieving equitable access to medicines.