Virtual Clinical Trials in Clinical Medicine: Economic, Ethical, and Practical Considerations

Virtual clinical trials (VCTs) represent an innovative approach to clinical research, using computer simulations and digital modeling rather than traditional human participants. These trials harness computational power and artificial intelligence to model the effects of medical treatments, drastically reducing costs, time, and logistical complexities. As this technology advances, VCTs offer the potential to streamline drug development, enhance precision, and make clinical research more accessible and efficient. However, the shift away from traditional human-based trials raises significant ethical concerns, particularly regarding the validity of results, regulatory oversight, and the potential reduction of human involvement in the research process. This paper explores the economic, ethical, and practical aspects of VCTs in clinical medicine, with a focus on their potential to revolutionize clinical trials and the challenges they present. Future lines of research will also be proposed to address these issues.