Issues Facing Development of New Innovative Medicines

The pharmaceutical industry is facing an unprecedented challenge to restore public confidence in the contribution of pharmaceuticals to health care and the value of new drug innovation. Without this confidence, the very fabric of the pharmaceutical and biotech industries and the future of new drug innovation are at risk. The potential long-term impact on patient welfare is enormous. During the 2005 DIA Annual Conference, a panel discussion was held entitled “Medicines and Healthcare: Rebuilding the Trust, Reshaping the Future.” Several key issues affecting public perception and confidence regarding the development and approval of new therapeutic agents were discussed by the panelists. This article represents a compilation of the major topics and concepts discussed during the session as well as the perspective of the authors.