The Daily Why One Drug Company Held Back a Better Drug
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Sep 7, 2023 Rebecca Robbins, a business reporter for The New York Times specializing in the pharmaceutical industry, delves into the controversial practices of Gilead Sciences. She reveals how the company prioritized profits by delaying a safer H.I.V. treatment. Robbins recounts a retiree's struggle with H.I.V. medications, highlighting the ethical dilemmas faced by companies that may sacrifice patient safety for financial gain. The discussion illuminates the challenges posed by patent laws and the impact on drug innovation, access, and affordability.
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David's HIV Diagnosis
- David Swisher, diagnosed with HIV in 1997, initially feared it was a death sentence.
- Effective medications emerged, but the early versions had harsh side effects.
Truvada's Impact
- Truvada, released in 2004, revolutionized HIV treatment with increased efficacy and fewer side effects.
- It became a cornerstone in the fight against AIDS, utilizing tenofovir to suppress the virus.
Truvada's Side Effects
- David Swisher experienced bone and kidney problems, possibly due to Truvada.
- His doctor suggested a bone scan revealing severe osteoporosis.