UNITAID approves HIV/AIDS patent pool

UNITAID's executive board approved plans to create a patent pool that would allow companies to market generic versions of patented HIV/AIDS medicines in low- and middle-income countries. Licensees also would be able to develop new formulations of the drugs, such as fixed-dose combinations and pediatric formulations. Patent holders would receive royalties in return for participating. UNITAID, the drug purchasing arm of the World Health Organization, has committed start-up funds of up to $4 million over the next year. The pool is expected to begin operating in mid-2010. ...