Priority Review Vouchers (PRVs) are awarded in the US to companies that gain approval there for a new drug for one of sixteen tropical diseases, under a law passed in 2007. The PRV entitles the holder to priority review by the FDA of another drug of the bearer’s choice.  The Vouchers are transferable, i.e., not limited to use by the company that gained approval of the neglected-disease drug.  

This Seminar Briefing recounts a presentation by one of the originators of the idea and includes his thoughts on: the potential impact of this incentive on the development of new drugs for neglected disease and how it interacts with other incentives; its possible impact on smaller biotech firms and non-profit drug developers; patients’ access to treatment; financial benefits for firms; and challenges in implementation.