Antibacterial products in clinical development for bacterial priority pathogens

The latest WHO review (Feb 2025) identifies 90 antibacterial products in clinical development worldwide—50 antibiotics and 40 non-traditional agents—but highlights that only a small fraction target the WHO priority pathogens with truly novel mechanisms. Of these, 27 antibiotics address priority pathogens, 21 show some activity against the most critical Gram-negative threats, and only 11 meet at least one WHO criterion for innovation (new class, target, mode of action, or no known cross-resistance). While all 27 are new chemical entities, the overall pipeline remains too small and insufficiently innovative to counter the accelerating spread of AMR. The report concludes that despite steady R&D efforts, current and near-future antibacterial options are inadequate, underscoring the urgent need for stronger global incentives, coordinated AMR strategies, and investment in breakthrough antibacterial innovation.