Chemistry vs. bacteria, #51. The story of lefamulin, how not to proceed
In 2019, the American FDA approved just one antibiotic: lefamulin, a medicine against pneumonia. It is marketed under the name of Xenleta. The history of this medicine makes a telling
Chemistry vs. bacteria, # 50. Resistance, a second look
Over the past few decades, our knowledge of bacterial mechanisms intended to circumvent antibiotics, has increased a lot. We know down to the atom where the antibiotics attack the organism;
Chemistry vs. bacteria, # 49. Further along trodden paths?
We can still contain the vast majority of infections with the existing collection of medicines. But we need to use them wisely. We also need to develop new medicines on
Chemistry vs. bacteria, # 48. The search for new antibiotics, 2000-2020
From the start of this century onwards, it becomes clear that we need to develop new antibiotics. Even though we still can handle most infections, using the inventory at hand.
Chemistry vs. bacteria, # 47. 21st century threats
Does the era of antibiotics come to an end? Do we have to prepare ourselves for a time when infections will once again be one of the main death causes?
Chemistry vs. bacteria, #46. The decline of modern pharma in three acts. III: cholesterol
The development of cholesterol lowering medicines is dominated by theory. Once more, the leading thought is that people can unlearn bad habits, and that we can cure all diseases with
Chemistry vs. bacteria, # 45. The decline of modern pharma in three acts. II: the empty promises of biotech
In the period 1980-2000, pharmaceutical research needs new impulses. The 1950 guidelines are brought to mind again: – we can cure diseases using the proper medicines – we can unlearn
Chemistry vs. bacteria, # 44. The decline of modern pharma in three acts. I: 1980-2000
Thirty years after pharma found the way ahead, around 1980 its motor suddenly starts to falter. Interest in the medical profession comes to a low end in a number of
