This Washington Post story of January 26 reports that the Bush
Administration’s $15bn program to fight HIV in the developing
world can now by inexpensive generic drugs from foreign
companies rather than buy brand names. The FDA approved a
package of generic drugs by Aspen Pharmacare of South Africa.
There had been some concern that these generics were not as
safe, given that several drugs are often combined into a single
pill. An Indian company Cipla had their drugs temporarily de-
licensed last year because of those kinds of concerns. However,
the South African firm seems to have its act together. The cost
savings are large, allowing U.S. and international money to go
much further to treat more people: The reaction by Doctors
without Borders was interesting. They argue that because the
World Health Organization already certifies generics that FDA
approval was superfluous. That’s probably true, but if it is a
hoop that had to be cleared to placate U.S. pharmaceuticals, and
if the issue is permanently resolved