The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #73999

Ramon Castellblanch, PhD, Department of Health Education, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA 94132-4161, (415) 405-2151, ramonc@sfsu.edu

This presentation considers the impact of multinational drug companies position on drug patents, using the example of fluconazale, a drug used to treat cryptococcal meningitis and oral thrush in those whose immune systems are weakened by AIDS. International political pressures have recently forced Pfizer to increase access to the drug through a donation program for poor countries. However, the program is working slowly and could easily be dropped if international attention on access to essential medicines abates. At a more fundamental level, Pfizer continues to strenuously defend trade laws protecting their option to make life-saving drugs like fluconazale, which are unavailable to the millions of people that can not afford the high costs of these agents.

Learning Objectives:

• At the conclusion of the session, the participant will appreciate the impact of the commercial interests of multintional pharmaceutical companies on the public health.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.