France's LEEM calls for unused drug solution

France's drug industry group (LEEM) has called for a solution to the problem of donating unused drugs to developing countries. Earlier this year, the French health authorities issued a ban on the reuse for humanitarian purposes of medicines.

In the meantime, the LEEM and its emergency relief partner Tulipe have been scaling back on the list of products that they are able to supply to non-governmental organizations in poorer countries. Where possible, the drug firms are supplying new product and discussions are underway to determine how this scheme will be funded.