DOC News July 1, 2007
Volume 4 Number 7 p. 19
© 2007 American Diabetes Association
TALK BACK: DO DRUG COMPANIES COMPROMISE CLINICAL RESEARCH?
Pharmaceutical companies have always had a complex and tangled relationship
with medical professionals. Along with the federal government, the pharma
industry is the main sponsor of clinical research. Does that give industry too
much influence over physicians' research priorities?
Although some of the most egregious examples of gift-giving and payola have
been addressed by rules from industry trade groups and professional
organizations, the presence of drug companies in clinical trials is still
substantial.
Some people suggest drug companies sponsor clinical research activities
that will result in more sales of product rather than address compelling
medical or social needs. Some critics have even charged that drug companies
squelch research that does not back up the claims they want to make. On the
other hand, without drug company funding, much research would not be
conducted.
Do pharmaceutical companies have an adverse effect on clinical
research?
Send your thoughts and comments to
docnews{at}diabetes.org.

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