Rethinking pharmaceutical development: A not-for-profit model to address global health inequities

Modern pharmaceuticals represent some of the greatest achievements in science and economic development. Yet, despite significant progress, profound inequities in access to essential medicines persist, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Traditional market-driven pharmaceutical models have succeeded where strong commercial incentives exist, but have failed to deliver for diseases with limited market potential, particularly in the neglected tropical diseases. This article outlines the reasons for inequity within the current system, the role of not-for-profit pharmaceutical development, and the urgent need for a new, complementary model for access that centres on public health priorities rather than market return.