The history of antibiotics is cyclical: Drugs are developed, but bacterial evolution can soon render them ineffective in treating infections. Antibiotic resistance is fueled by the injudicious use of existing drugs and compounded by a failure to develop novel new ones. Today there are not enough drugs in development to meet current and anticipated patient needs, with many major pharmaceutical companies limiting or stopping their investments in antibiotic innovation.

Pew works to develop and promote policies that will support the development of new antibiotics to ensure a healthy nation today and in the future.