Developing microbicides
Mobilisation for microbicides: the decisive decade
Funding, robust science and international coordination needed to implement microbicides
Authors:
; Microbicide Initiative
Publisher:
International Partnership for Microbicides , 2002
This document, from the Microbicides Initiative, synthesises the key points that have been made by expert working groups. The initiative was established to prioritise the key elements needed to bring microbicides to market in a timely manner. The authors argue that developing a safe, effective microbicide requires political will. It also requires a willingness on the part of the public and private sectors to invest the necessary resources, coordinate efforts, ensure access, and mobilise to meet this urgent public health challenge.
Three factors are highlighted as necessary to ensure timely development of and access to microbicides. Firstly, sufficient funding is needed to guarantee that money is not an obstacle to research and development, and related access and advocacy activities. Funding would also increase the probability of an effective first-generation microbicide for use in one country by 2007. Secondly, a robust microbicide field is needed to attract research and development efforts by one or more large pharmaceutical companies to ensure resources and technical assistance. It would also help attract high-quality scientists from all relevant fields. Finally, the authors argue that collaboration among international and national agencies is needed to produce a clear and responsible pathway for approving and registering microbicides, thereby increasing availability and affordability. [adapted from author]
