WHO Issues New Guidance To Combat Antimicrobial Resistance

How can pharmaceutical manufacturers help fight one of the world’s biggest health threats, antimicrobial resistance (AMR)?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently published its first-ever guidance on managing antibiotic pollution in pharmaceutical manufacturing. This important step addresses how manufacturers can prevent AMR by improving waste management across the supply chain.

Why AMR is a global health threat

Antimicrobial resistance is a growing concern for health experts worldwide. When bacteria become resistant to antibiotics, treating infections becomes more difficult. One of the contributors to AMR is the improper handling of pharmaceutical waste, particularly from antibiotics.

The WHO's new guidelines are designed to mitigate the risk posed by this waste by focusing on the following:

• Managing wastewater from antibiotic production
• Proper disposal of solid waste in the environment
• Reducing the emergence of drug-resistant bacteria

What manufacturers can do

The WHO guidance outlines specific steps that pharmaceutical companies can take to reduce antibiotic pollution. These recommendations cover the entire production cycle – from the creation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) to the packaging of finished products.

In addition to improving environmental impact, adopting these practices helps manufacturers:

• Align with global standards on responsible production
• Protect their market reputation by demonstrating commitment to public health

Strengthening global standards

One of the standout elements of the new WHO guidance is that it provides an independent, scientific basis for regulating antibiotic pollution. This means regulators, buyers, and industry leaders now have a clear set of recommendations to follow.

A step towards certification

The release of the WHO guidance aligns with the growing momentum behind AMR certification. The British Standards Institute (BSI) introduced a Minimized Risk of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) certification for manufacturers in June 2023.

By obtaining this certification, companies can:

• Ensure compliance with global standards on waste management
• Minimise the risk of spreading AMR through the environment

For instance, manufacturers such as Sandoz and Teva have already begun working toward this certification. They are taking steps to certify under the NHS Antimicrobial Product subscription model, which requires the BSI Kitemark for minimized AMR risk.

The bottom line

With the WHO's new guidelines and emerging AMR certifications, pharmaceutical manufacturers have clear steps they can take to address antibiotic pollution. By investing in responsible production practices, companies can protect public health and reduce the global threat of antimicrobial resistance.

Now is the time for manufacturers to take action and help safeguard the future of antibiotics.

 

Published on Oct 04, 2024 by Ella Thomas