AMR is a naturally occurring phenomenon through which bacteria build up defences against antibiotics. The nature of resistance means that there is a continual need to develop new antibiotics, so we can stay a step ahead of resistant pathogens.
MSD has remained committed to antibiotic R&D for over 80 years and brought forward new treatments each decade. However, major scientific, regulatory and economic challenges discourage innovation in antibiotics, resulting in a significant decline in the number of companies conducting antibiotic and antifungal R&D over the last two decades. Recognising there is unlikely to be a one-size-fits-all solution to the problem, MSD and others have suggested a series of policy reforms across several regions of the world. However, time is running out. We need collaboration from policymakers across the globe to help antibiotic innovation flourish for decades to come.