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Published on: September 20, 2019
Challenges and opportunities for sponsors in conducting clinical trials during a pandemic
1General Secretary, Indian Society for Clinical Research (ISCR), Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
Abstract:
The COVID-19 pandemic may impact the conduct of clinical trials of medical products. Challenges have arisen, from country/ state lockdowns, site closures due to hospitals being taken over / sites being taken over for COVID-19 related care, travel limitations to sites for patients, interruptions to the supply chain for the investigational product, or other considerations if site personnel or trial subjects become infected with COVID-19. These challenges may lead to difficulties in meeting protocol-specified procedures, including administering or using the investigational product or adhering to protocol-scheduled visits and laboratory/diagnostic testing. This position paper from the perspective of Indian Society for Clinical Research (ISCR) aims to provide guidance to both frontline Clinical Research Professionals and sponsors on measures that can be taken while continuing ongoing clinical trial activities at site as well as resuming site level activities in the post COVID setting. Broad guidance is also given to sites and sponsors on use of Direct to Patient drug shipments, supplies and cold chain management and use of technologies to support enhanced remote functioning during and post COVID.
Insights
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted clinical trials, affecting patient safety and data integrity. This paper offers guidance for clinical research professionals and sponsors on managing trials during and after the pandemic.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Research
- Pandemic Response
- Drug Development
Background:
- COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted global clinical trial operations.
- Challenges included lockdowns, site closures, travel restrictions, and supply chain disruptions.
- Protocol adherence for investigational product administration and patient visits was compromised.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide guidance for clinical trial professionals and sponsors in India.
- To address challenges in continuing ongoing trials and resuming activities post-COVID.
- To offer strategies for managing clinical trials during and after the pandemic.
Main Methods:
- Position paper from the Indian Society for Clinical Research (ISCR).
- Focus on practical measures for site-level activities.
- Guidance on direct-to-patient shipments, cold chain management, and technology adoption.
Main Results:
- Identified key challenges impacting clinical trial conduct due to COVID-19.
- Proposed strategies for maintaining trial integrity and patient safety.
- Highlighted the importance of adaptive trial management and remote technologies.
Conclusions:
- Effective strategies are crucial for navigating pandemic-related disruptions in clinical trials.
- Implementation of direct-to-patient shipments and remote technologies can enhance trial continuity.
- Proactive planning and adaptation are essential for the future of clinical research in public health emergencies.
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