The WHO published a list of pediatric formulations to prioritize research and development of age-appropriate antibiotics aimed to identify these drugs with an approved pediatric indication, but lacking appropriate formulations for children.

WHO’s chief scientist John Reeder said the research also found antibiotics in clinical trials approved without a pediatric indication that should be given special attention for their progress in children.

According to WHO, the generation of medicines for children is almost a decade behind that for adults due, among other reasons, to limited investment and lack of market incentives.

Following the 69th World Health Assembly resolution on promoting innovation and access to safe, effective and affordable medicines for children, WHO and partners in the Global Pediatric Formulations Acceleration Network redoubled efforts to deliver on that global commitment.

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