Therapeutic trials in general practice, an unmet need

Clinical drug trials are not frequently carried out in general practice in spite of the fact that most drugs are used there. Reasons for this problem are most probably lack of motivation and training in drug trials among GP's. Certain areas of drug treatment are more suitable for general practice, while others are definitely not and in addition, time, financing and complex designs may be difficult to overcome. In any event the scientific quality of a project should be indisputable. The two potential roles of the GP ("the data collector" and "the project leader") are defined, and a list of questions that the GP should ask himself if approached by a sponsor is presented. Better drugs for the primary health care are badly needed, and the responsibilities for achieving this rely with the GP as well as with the medical community at large.