Drug-resistant infections could kill over 8 million by 2050, report warns

The article notes that without critical interventions from pharmaceutical companies, drug-resistant infections could cause over 8 million deaths annually by 2050.

It also outlines the pockets of progress covered in the report, including seven innovative, late-stage drugs from companies that show promise against some of the deadliest drug-resistant pathogens. This includes GSK’s gepotidacin – the first new oral antibiotic class for uncomplicated urinary tract infections in nearly 30 years – and Innoviva’s zoliflodacin – a new oral option for gonorrhoea, which affects 82 million people globally and is resistant to almost all antibiotics.

The article highlights critical AMR access gaps identified in the Benchmark, including those affecting children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). It notes that 17 countries in sub-Saharan Africa still have no registered paediatric antibiotics from companies in scope.

Additionally, it emphasises a central message of the report: that coordinated global action is required from governments, policymakers and governments.

“From R&D through manufacturing, to access and stewardship, the Benchmark illustrates the potential for companies to develop more comprehensive approaches. But we need intensified, industry-wide action,” said Claudia Martínez, Director of Research at the Foundation.