DaudiAiko
JF-Expert Member
- Dec 2, 2012
- 372
- 310
Research begins in labs where compounds that could have activity against the pathogen are tested. This is usually through trial and error until a hit compound is developed. Functional groups on the compound are altered until a lead compound is formed. The lead compound is tested on animals to determine the safety and efficacy before testing can be done on humans.
Clinical trials begin with three phases required before the drug is approved for use. With every phase, more people are added to the research group and the drug is heavily scrutinized. The whole process may take up to twenty years and may require millions of dollars in funding.
As a result pharmaceutical companies receive a patent requiring only them to manufacture the drug for a period of 20 years. After the patent expires, other pharmaceutical companies can manufacture generics.
Clinical trials begin with three phases required before the drug is approved for use. With every phase, more people are added to the research group and the drug is heavily scrutinized. The whole process may take up to twenty years and may require millions of dollars in funding.
As a result pharmaceutical companies receive a patent requiring only them to manufacture the drug for a period of 20 years. After the patent expires, other pharmaceutical companies can manufacture generics.
