The R&D productivity challenge: transforming the pharmaceutical ecosystem
Journal
Drug Discovery Today
Type
journal article
Date Issued
2025
Author(s)
;
;
Kwisda, Sebastian
;
Kremer Malte
;
Hinder, Markus
;
Hartl, Dominik
Abstract
The persistent decline in pharmaceutical R&D productivity has been extensively analyzed and debated for over two decades, with profound implications for the structure and strategy of the pharmaceutical industry. This systemic challenge forced many leading companies to adapt their R&D models, influencing internal capabilities and external innovation strategies. In response, the industry has evolved into a complex, interdependent biopharmaceutical ecosystem encompassing large pharma-ceutical corporations, biotech innovators and specialized service providers. Although R&D productivity affects all research-driven companies, its consequences are particularly pronounced for large pharmaceutical firms, because the scale and capital intensity of their R&D activities make productivity a crucial determinant of long-term competitiveness and sustainability. By contrast, other stakeholders are only partially adversely affected, whereas some can even obtain value from it.
Language
English
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Refereed
yes
Volume
30
Number
11
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Name
25 DDT productivity challenge.pdf
Size
327.2 KB
Format
Adobe PDF
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