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Pharmaceutical giant Merck Sharp and Dohme (MSD) could soon allow generic manufacturers in South Africa to produce its patented anti-AIDS drugs reported a local newspaper, the Cape Argus.
The decision follows a recent fracas between the AIDS activist group, Treatment Action Campaign (TAC), and MSD over a shortage of efavirenz, a drug used to treat HIV infection in children older than three.
Although neither party was willing to divulge details of any plans for a generic equivalent to be produced locally, MSD chief executive Chirfi Guindo said the company and TAC were "in discussions with potential candidates" to manufacture the medication.
A joint statement by TAC and MSD is expected in the next few weeks.
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