[e-drug] Glaxo response to Ghana problem

e-drug
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E-drug: Glaxo response to Ghana problem
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Thought this would be of interest to those dealing with Ghana and
that they may wish to send a response if felt necessary to the
editor@pharmj.org.uk :

Pharmaceutical Journal 10th February 2000

from http://www.pharmj.com

Full letter and response from Glaxo at:

http://www.pharmj.com/Editorial/20010210/comment/letters.html#glaxo

Medicines in Ghana
From Mr S. Whitaker, MRPharmS

SIR, Glaxosmithkline's website (www.glaxosmithkline.com) proclaims on
its front page that "Glaxosmithkline one of the world's leading
research-based pharmaceutical and health care companies is committed
to improving the quality of human life by enabling people to do more,
feel better and live longer".

I wonder how the company reconciles this statement with the fact
that, according to an article in the Wall Street Journal of December
1, 2000, it is purposefully blocking the importation of affordable
generic HIV drugs into Ghana, a country ridden with AIDS but too poor
to be able to afford Glaxo's patented formulas.

Simon Whitaker
Cardiff

Ms VICKI EHRICH (Glaxosmithkline Corporate Communications and
Community Affairs) replies:

Thank you for giving us the opportunity to explain the situation,
which has unfortunately been misreported in the media.
<snip>

The focus on the patent status detracts from the real issues
surrounding access to medicines in Ghana. GSK is able and ready to
offer its range of AIDS medicines in Ghana and other developing
countries at a price on a par with generic medicines.
<snip>

Experience shows that, to make expanded access successful,
partnerships in terms of the participation of national governments,
donor funders, UN agencies, non-governmental organisations, local
communities, the industry and other stakeholders is essential.

--
Anthony Cox
ADR Pharmacist
West Midlands Centre for Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting
City Hospital NHS Trust, Dudley Road, Birmingham, B18 7QH. UK
http://www.csmwm.org
Anthony.Cox@cityhospbham.wmids.nhs.uk
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