This book comes as a welcome reminder of the many efforts to develop policies for a more rational use of medecines. It provides a clear outline of some of the possible strategies to achieve change.

Andrew Chetley, author of A Healthy Business: World Health and the Pharmaceutical Industry

Anyone who wants to understand the limitations and constraints of developing and executing a global policy to improve health in developing countries will find this book essential reading.

Calvin M. Kunin, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University

The WHO has succeeded in making "essential drugs" a respected concept. This book documents this crucial step in the improvement of the supply of medicines for people in the South.

Sjaak van der Geest, University of Amsterdam