Rapid uptake of products focused on drug-resistant infections, such as Pfizer's Zyvox (linezolid), has been driven by the increasing numbers of immunocompromised patients in hospitals. Despite these pockets of strong growth, the market for antibacterials, valued at $24 billion in the seven major markets, still faces significant revenue loss in the period 2005-2007 due to major patent expiries.

• Highlights epidemiological trends in bacterial infections across the major Western markets
• In-depth value analysis per product, class and country, with an assessment of underlying commercial and clinical influencers
• Case study analysis of Pfizer's Zmax single dose formulation for respiratory tract infections, including the impact of generic azithromycin
• Examines the outlook for branded Rocephin in the key US market discussion of Sandoz, Lupin, and Hospira strategies for generic ceftriaxone

In 2004 the global antibacterial market was valued at approximately $24 billion with modest growth on 2000 (CAGR 4.4%). The fastest growing classes during this period were the carbapenems and "others" with notable products such as Pfizer's Zyvox (linezolid).

Although drug resistant infections such as MRSA have been a key focus over recent years, Datamonitor's opinion leader research reveals new concerns with Gram negative organisms such as actineobacter, pseudomonas and ESBL producing strains.

Pfizer's acquisition of Vircuron's dalbavancin and Johnson's and Johnson's investment in both doripenem and ceftobipole brings much need reinvestment to the antibacterial sector and a commitment to combating serious hospital infections.

• Review the clinical and commercial factors driving new product decisions in antibacterials, and the opportunities and threats facing the market
• Gain insight into the product lifecycle management strategies of the top antibacterial players through real case study analyses
• Understand why 2005 has brought new investment to a previously neglected therapeutic sector