A Big Pharma Company Stalled a Potentially Lifesaving Vaccine
10 hours ago
- #Tuberculosis
- #Pharmaceutical Industry
- #Vaccine Development
- Dr. Neil Martinson has worked on tuberculosis (TB) for over 30 years, witnessing its devastating impact on patients.
- In 2018, a TB vaccine breakthrough showed over 50% effectiveness, but development stalled as GSK prioritized more profitable ventures like the shingles vaccine.
- GSK controls a key adjuvant (MPL) developed with U.S. Army funding, limiting its use for TB despite global need.
- The TB vaccine faces delays, with phase 3 trials starting in 2024 and results expected by 2028, leaving millions at risk.
- GSK retains rights to sell the TB vaccine in wealthy countries, while nonprofits like Gates MRI handle development for poorer regions.
- Experts criticize the system for prioritizing corporate profits over public health, calling for new models to develop life-saving vaccines.
- The WHO and others are exploring alternative adjuvants and mRNA technology to bypass Big Pharma's control over vaccine production.
- Funding for TB vaccine research remains critically low compared to diseases like COVID-19, despite global pledges.