In my earlier blogs, I spoke about the options of developing novel drugs for HIV AIDS, one of the fatal diseases threatening human life. More than developing drugs, it is important to ensure that the drugs reach the patients. But are the drugs reaching all the patients?
Patent laws give Multinational pharmaceutical organisations sole authority for production of novel drugs. giving them the sole right to develop and sell the drug. MNC’s sell the patented drugs at much higher prices, leaving treatment unaffordable to the poorer sector. Though the cost the MNC's quote for the drug is justified keeping in mind the cost incurred in R&D of these drugs, it remains a dream for many.
Even if other pharma companies manage to identify the composition of the new drug, they cannot develop generic drugs as it is patented. This guarantees the sales and increases profits for the patent holding organisation in return for their investment.
Recent news on NDTV, reported that Indian government refused to grant Abott the patent for 2 second phase HIV drugs. It is obvious that this is a great news for the pharma companies that work on generic drugs. But the real point of discussion is whether it is an advantage or disadvantage to the patients who are suffering? Is this going to make HIV treatment available to all, or is it still going to be unaffordable?
It will not make sense to keep such a drug at a high cost. The probability of a person who can afford the drug, falling victim to AIDS is less. Those who suffer from it are the ones who need the drug at low costs. The government should take an initiative and release grants for students to take up research for such a drug. That will make it safer in terms of affordability.
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