the number of new antibiotics in development is alarmingly low and it's a matter of resources. antibiotics are taken for a shorter period of time and it's more economical for drug companies to make drugs that are taken for a long time. we're also promoting the concept of using these antibiotics judiciously so companies and researchers don't see the economic benefit. antibiotics are not used in volume like a cholesterol or diabetes medication. the fda is currently considering options to facilitate new antibiotic development.
according to the cdc 16 new antibiotics came to market between 1983-1987 but only 2 between 2003-2007. why so few?