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Janssen, USAID to expand access to anti-multidrug-resistant tuberculosis compound

Johnson & Johnson's affiliate Janssen Therapeutics has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the US Agency for International Development (USAID) to fight against the antibiotic-resistant bacteria threat.

Antimicrobial resistance seen in multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is one of the world’s most serious public health threats. MDR-TB is resistant to at least two of the four most commonly used medicines in the current standard treatment regimen.

As part of the deal, Janssen would contribute an estimated $30m worth of its anti-MDR-TB treatment, about 30,000 courses, while USAID will work with their implementing partners, national TB programs and with Janssen to ensure responsible access and appropriate use of the treatment.

The MOU strengthens the company’s agreement with the Stop TB Partnership’s Global Drug Facility to facilitate access to quality-assured medicines in more than 100 countries worldwide.

In future, the two parties will engage with the global TB community to solicit support, develop eligibility criteria and engage others to help address this public health crisis.

Johnson & Johnson chief scientific officer and worldwide chairman Dr Paul Stoffels said: "Our work to combat the scourge of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis is far from over.

"With nearly half a million people affected worldwide and approximately 210,000 losing their lives to this disease in 2013, we are engaging in pioneering partnerships with likeminded stakeholders invested in global public health. Collaborating with USAID improves access to potentially lifesaving medicines for people living with MDR-TB."