Thailand to start producing own version of d4T

Keith Alcorn
Estimated reading time 1 minutes
This article is more than 24 years old.

In another move towards a global adjustment in antiretroviral drug prices, the Thai Government Pharmaceutical Organisation has begun production of its own version of d4T (stavudine). The generic version will cost 85% less than Bristol Myers Squibb's Zerit formulation of d4T, one of the most commonly prescribed nucleoside analogues in Europe and North America. The move follows a decision earlier this year to allow production of a Thai generic version of ddI (didanosine), which is also marketed by Bristol Myers Squibb as Videx.

At a cost of 50p per day for the 40mg dose of the drug, generic d4T will be affordable for some individuals with HIV in Thailand, although the generic version of ddI (which must be produced in powdered form) is more costly, at approximately £1 - £1.50 per day for individuals weighing less than 60kg. The minimum wage in Bangkok is approximately £3 a day, according to The Nation, a Bangkok daily newspaper.

Glossary

generic

In relation to medicines, a drug manufactured and sold without a brand name, in situations where the original manufacturer’s patent has expired or is not enforced. Generic drugs contain the same active ingredients as branded drugs, and have comparable strength, safety, efficacy and quality.

nucleoside

A precursor to a building block of DNA or RNA. Nucleosides must be chemically changed into nucleotides before they can be used to make DNA or RNA. 

formulation

The physical form in which a drug is manufactured or administered. Examples of formulations include tablets, capsules, powders, and oral and injectable solutions. A drug may be available in multiple formulations.

Bristol Myers Squibb has attempted to block Thai moves towards generic production, according to Tido von Schoen-Angerer of Medecins sans Frontieres Thailand, but its patent agreement for d4T expired last year.

Last month Bristol Myers Squibb was one of five companies which announced that it would be participating in discussions to reduce the costs of antiretroviral drugs for developing countries. However, no concrete proposals have yet been tabled, although BMS has previously announced that it is investing $100 million in the development of HIV care for women and children in Southern Africa.

Sources: The Nation, Bangkok, Thailand, June 10. and Treatment Access

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