The investigator-sponsored IND in clinical trials

The Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires that clinical investigations conducted in the United States involving unapproved drugs be done under an Investigational New Drug Application (IND). INDs are often sponsored by pharmaceutical firms or noncommercial research institutions. Most INDs, however, are sponsored by individual researchers. Since the procedures for filing an IND may not be well understood, this article seeks to clarify these procedures. Specifically, this article describes a "Sponsor-Investigator IND," the conditions under which one is required, and the possible advantages of filing one. The information presented aids the investigator in determining whether an IND need be submitted. The authors have developed an IND workbook that can be used to organize and present the IND application in a form likely to facilitate expeditious review and approval by the FDA. The authors have also developed IND guidelines to assist investigators in preparing, submitting, and maintaining an IND. Obligations and responsibilities of both sponsors and investigators are discussed.