Development and introduction of fexinidazole into the Global Human African Trypanosomiasis Program

by Valverde Mordt O, Tarral A, Strub-Wourgaft N. The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene 2022; tpmd211176. doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.21-1176

Summary: The authors describe how careful planning and engagement of key stakeholders was critical to streamlining the introduction of fexinidazole, the first all oral treatment for human African trypanosomiasis caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense. A regulatory plan was established early and endemic countries were transparently included in the research and data flow. World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines were prepared for early, and supply and distribution were established from the start, thanks to the existing supply agreement between human African trypanosomiasis drug producers and WHO. Targeted sequential introduction into national programs was prioritized, based on medical need and updated epidemiological information. The authors conclude that any effort to compress timelines is worthwhile since it accelerates access to new or improved interventions for populations in most need.

This article is part of a supplemental issue.

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