In an unexpected move, Brazil announced today that would be suspending the patent for an important HIV drug, Efavirenz (commercially known as Sustiva), because of the price at which is producer, Merck wants to sell it to the country:

Brazil wants to import a generic version of the drug which is produced cheaper in India. The Minister of Health, José Gomes Temporao, said that Brazil will buy the generic drug from an Indian laboratory that already produces it, and that it will be distributed in the country starting in September.

“We are taking a big step and the decision applies to this drug and to any other when it’s necessary. Today it was this drug, tomorrow it might be another. If we don’t get a fair price, we’ll make that decision, he said.

“We won’t stop caring for our people. The same way we take care of the poor, with that same affection we will take care of those infected,” added [President] Lula.

After attempting to negotiate a compromise, the price difference between what Merck was selling the drug for in Thailand what they were offering Brazil is what really ruffled Lula’s feathers:

Brazil currently pays $1.59 for each 600 milligram unit of Efavirenz, in spite of the fact that Merck charges countries such as Thailand 65 cents for the same unit.

“From an ethical standpoint, [the price difference] is insulting. It’s disrespectful from a political standpoint, as if a sick Brazilian’s life was worth less,” said Lula.

According to Spain’s El Mundo, Efavirenz is the most commonly prescribed HIV drug through free health programs in Brazil, and used to treat 38% of Brazilians infected with the virus. The Brazilian government says that by purchasing the generic version from India they’ll save over $400 per patient per year.

Via / El Mundo