Short Communication
Drik Petersohn
Abstract
Toxicology and pharmacology are challenging areas in the clinical trial process. Although the results gained are vital for the safety of medicines and are required by regulatory bodies around the world, the processes involved, especially animal testing, remain controversial. Almost all of the work is outsourced and the major companies involved have come under considerable pressure from activist groups. Companies vary from large multi-nationals, small or medium sized organizations, Biotechnology, Medical Device, Generics or Niche companies to Clinical Research Organizations (CROs). CROs are Global organizations, service providers that undertake outsourced clinical trials for pharma companies to help get a compound on to the market. Their work includes specialist Phase I services, Pharmacokinetics/ Pharmacodynamics and Phase II –IV Services.