DISARM Act Provides Framework Needed to Spur Antibiotic R&D, Protect Existing Drugs

The introduction of the Developing an Innovative Strategy for Antimicrobial Resistant Microorganisms — DISARM — Act — by United States Senators Johnny Isakson (R-GA) and Bob Casey (D-PA) Tuesday represents an essential step toward addressing the growing threat of infections that are increasingly resistant to existing treatments. By improving critical Medicare reimbursement for antibiotics and promoting their appropriate use, the legislation has the potential to stabilize the antibiotics market, spur the development of new infection-fighting drugs, and preserve the effectiveness of existing medicines.