Protecting Innovation: Small Molecules and the Future of Medicine

Science should lead our policy decisions—not the other way around. In this episode, Kirsten Axelson, Senior Policy Lab Advisor at Incubate Coalition, dives deep into the power of small molecule medicines, the promise they hold for the future, and how our current policy landscape may upend their development.  This conversation focuses on Incubate Policy Lab’s most recent white paper, which sheds light on the crucial role these molecules play not only in innovative drug development, but also in ensuring equitable access to life-saving treatments. Listeners will learn: ​​The crucial role small molecules play in modern medicine, especially in treating conditions like cancer and neurological diseases.How current policy decisions, such as those in the Inflation Reduction Act, could negatively affect the development and accessibility of small molecule drugs.Why small molecule medicines contribute to equitable access to healthcare, especially for underserved populations and in global health contexts.To learn more about Kirsten’s white paper, please go to incubatecoalition.org