Janssen receives International Prix Galien for drug-resistant tuberculosis therapy

Janssen has been handed the prestigious International Prix Galien award for its innovative new treatment for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB).

The award recognises excellence in scientific innovation to improve human health and is presented every two years to a medicine that has previously won a national Prix Galien. It is often considered the highest accolade for pharmaceutical research and development.

Initially approved in the US in 2012 as part of a combination therapy for adults with pulmonary MDR-TB, it was the first medication with a novel mechanism of action to be approved for the treatment of adult patients with TB in more than 40 years.

It is also the first drug ever to be approved for adult patients with pulmonary MDR-TB, a condition for which fewer than 50 percent of patients were treated successfully prior to the approval of Janssen's therapy.

This marks the first time the award has been presented to a treatment for a neglected disease such as tuberculosis, and highlights the key role the MDR-TB therapy could play in combating global antimicrobial resistance.

Dr Wim Parys, head of research and development for global public health at Janssen's parent company Johnson and Johnson, said: "MDR-TB is a critical part of Johnson and Johnson's new global public health organisation and underscores our commitment to ensuring essential medicines and care for the world’s most vulnerable and neglected populations."

With over 20 years of experience within the pharmaceutical market, we at Zenopa have the knowledge, skills and expertise to help find the right job for you. To find out more about the current pharmaceutical roles we have available, you can search for the latest job roles, register your details, or contact the team today.