Developing a new drug is a lengthy process that can take up to 15 years, requiring meticulous precision and substantial funding. Research might involve screening 5,000 different chemical substances just to identify a single compound suitable for human testing.
The initial stage of drug discovery involves examining the biological processes within the body that trigger specific symptoms or diseases. Researchers identify and design a drug candidate, which then undergoes validation, optimization, pharmaceutical and toxicological testing, and clinical production and trials before it can be administered to patients.
An Indonesian state-owned vaccine manufacturer has echoed this sentiment. A research group comprising various scientists aims to develop a *halal* Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine by 2024, a project spanning eight years.
Rahman Roestan, President Director of PT Bio Farma, noted that vaccine production is a long, time-consuming process. Research alone can take 15 to 20 years; a vaccine candidate must pass through preclinical animal trials and human clinical trial phases 1, 2, and 3 before it can be registered with the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM).
Indonesia has indeed lagged somewhat in pharmaceutical research and development. This situation must be addressed so that the country does not merely serve as a market but can also compete effectively in the healthcare sector.
Indonesia possesses rich biodiversity with significant potential for developing pharmaceutical products, including biotechnological products, traditional medicines (such as *fitofarmaka* or standardized herbal medicines), and other natural products. To advance drug and food research and development in the country, BPOM-RI collaborates with the Ministry of Research, Technology, and Higher Education.
The government facilitates research outcomes so they can be further developed and utilized by business entities, thereby delivering tangible benefits to the public and fostering domestic self-sufficiency in the supply of pharmaceutical raw materials.
The government also continues to attract foreign investment into Indonesia, offering various tax incentive instruments to facilitate the process for investors. - https://www.mmindustri.co.id/cara-para-ahli-membuat-obat-baru-bermutu/
- https://www.mmindustri.co.id/cara-para-ahli-membuat-obat-baru-bermutu/
- https://id.gsk.com/id-id/penelitian/bagaimana-kami-menemukan-obat-baru/
