Perspective on the role of the pharmaceutical industry

Abstract

The barrier to better drug treatment for children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is not just a shortage of resources or the fact that diagnosis, prescription, and transport of selected drugs to patients is often impeded. The challenge is more complex. Some lessons learned in the developed world can be used in LMIC, including those pertaining to the application of dosing guidelines and the development of appropriate pediatric formulations. However, the challenge is not just about transfer of knowledge, experience, and wealth from countries that are rich to countries that are poor. In order to understand the magnitude of the problem and to see where the pharmaceutical industry could do more requires in-depth analysis. The author has identified a number of priorities for improved pharmaceutical company interaction with nongovernmental organizations, academic institutions. and philanthropies. Most of the goals cited are achievable if there is a shared will to better serve the needs of children.