Affordable Access to Key TB Medicine: A Positive Shift
A Groundbreaking Step in TB Treatment Accessibility
TB Alliance's efforts enhance availability and affordability of pretomanid
TB Alliance recently announced a significant achievement in the ongoing battle against drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB), marking a 25% reduction in the price of pretomanid, a vital element in the BPaL/M treatment regimens. This price adjustment has brought the cost of pretomanid down to just $169 per treatment course, translating to less than $1 per day—a crucial target recognized by global TB advocates.
This price drop, originating from an initial price of $364 when pretomanid was first introduced in 2019, and further reduced from $224 in October 2024, showcases TB Alliance's commitment to expanding access through its multi-manufacturer strategy. The organization has partnered with several quality-assured manufacturers to ensure that high-quality and affordable treatment options reach those most affected by TB.
Dr. Mel Spigelman, President and CEO of TB Alliance, expressed optimism regarding this newfound accessibility, stating, "This progress demonstrates how thoughtful collaboration and planning can translate into real-world impact. By enabling multiple high-quality producers to supply this medicine, we're fostering a healthy and sustainable market to deliver on our mandate that the life-saving medicines we develop will be adopted, available, and affordable to all those in need." The collaboration with partners, including Lupin, highlights the joint effort to make life-saving medicines available.
The price reduction led by Lupin Limited signifies a vital move toward this vision. The Global Drug Facility (GDF) procurement will allow an estimated annual savings of $37 million, according to The Stop TB Partnership, and will help facilitate treatment for an additional 120,000 individuals afflicted with DR-TB.
In conjunction with recent reductions in other treatment components, the total cost of a full BPaL/M treatment regimen has now decreased to a new low of $310—where patients can receive necessary care for under $2 per day, representing a 47% decline from December 2022 levels.
The BPaL/M regimen consists of bedaquiline (B), pretomanid (Pa), and linezolid (L), sometimes combined with moxifloxacin (M), and is a recommended six-month treatment by the World Health Organization for various DR-TB forms. In just one year, more than 110,000 courses of pretomanid were ordered globally, addressing over 60% of the worldwide DR-TB treatment market, potentially marking the fastest scale-up of a new TB treatment in recent history.
Ramesh Swaminathan, Global CFO at Lupin, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, reaffirming their commitment to making pretomanid more affordable and accessible. "Through this partnership, we reaffirm our dedication to patient-centric innovation and equitable access, ensuring that countries burdened by TB have the necessary treatment options to save lives and strengthen public health systems," he remarked.
Moreover, Olya Klymenko, Development Director of TBPeopleUkraine, highlighted the importance of affordability in TB treatment, emphasizing the essential nature of having a regimen costing less than $2 per day. She expressed gratitude to all involved in achieving this outcome, stating that there's no legitimate reason for healthcare systems worldwide to withhold access to these needed treatments.
TB Alliance is steadfast in its mission to continue its innovative access model, aiming to deliver new TB treatments swiftly to those in need. With anticipated future tenders, further price reductions for pretomanid are expected. Beyond pricing, TB Alliance is actively developing innovative market access initiatives to facilitate global availability and implementation of shortened DR-TB treatments.
Understanding Tuberculosis (TB)
Tuberculosis is a challenging infection that typically necessitates a regimen of several medications over a minimum of four to six months. Even after symptom relief, ongoing treatment is crucial to ensure the complete eradication of the disease. The global TB crisis is exacerbated by outdated and inadequate treatment options, underlining the urgent need for innovative drug regimens to control the pandemic effectively.
Introducing BPaL Regimen
The BPaL regimen, which consists of bedaquiline (B), pretomanid (Pa), and linezolid (L), was initially explored clinically by TB Alliance. The regulatory approval for pretomanid as part of this regimen was granted for the treatment of highly drug-resistant TB strains. Before its introduction, the success rate for treating drug-resistant TB was limited, often requiring patients to endure lengthy treatments with several medications daily.
About TB Alliance
TB Alliance is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to accelerating the development of faster-acting and affordable drug regimens to combat TB. Through collaborative efforts and scientific innovation, TB Alliance aims to guarantee equitable access to superior TB cures that enhance global health and well-being. The organization receives support from various international bodies, facilitating its mission to transform TB treatment on a worldwide scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pretomanid?
Pretomanid is a crucial medication used to treat drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) and is part of the BPaL/M regimen.
How has the price of pretomanid changed recently?
Recently, the price of pretomanid was reduced by 25%, now costing $169 per treatment course.
Why is the price reduction important?
The reduced price enhances accessibility and affordability for patients worldwide, facilitating treatment for more individuals.
What does the BPaL regimen consist of?
The BPaL regimen consists of bedaquiline (B), pretomanid (Pa), and linezolid (L), used for treating DR-TB.
What is TB Alliance's role in TB treatment?
TB Alliance is a non-profit organization focused on developing innovative, affordable drug regimens for TB treatment and ensuring global access.
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