subject: Following Policy When Discovering And Developing New Drugs [print this page] Even during the very early discovery stages of drug development it is incredibly important that everyone involved follows the clearly set out policy. These policies have been set by the Home Office, a special department within UK government, and those that do not adhere to them are at risk of breaking the law.
If you are beginning the very first steps in drug development you will almost always need to apply for funding from the government. This process can take some time due to the amount of paperwork that you will need to fill in, as well as the evidence that you will need to supply. Once you have submitted your request for funding all you can do is wait for someone to get back to you, either with a positive or negative response. If you find you are to receive funding you will be able to go ahead with your drug research.
Once you have finished the research stage of your development and have actually produced the compounds used within your drug you will need to then apply for a patent. As with other patent types, a drug patent stops other companies from selling your drug, so your hard work cannot be profited on by other people.
You can then go on to finely tweak your drug, getting it ready for the next process in drug development policy drug approval. Before your drug is actually distributed across the country it must be approval for sale. This stage in the process is completed by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). A number of tests will be carried out on your drug to ensure that it is safe to use and that it follows the strict codes of conduct set out by the government.
Following this your newly approved drug will need to be sent to the Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme for pricing. Drug pricing is closely monitored and regulated so that the NHS will be able to purchase it. If your drug is too expensive the NHS will not be able to do so and, ultimately, your drug will not reach the general population. Your drug will be fairly priced though and a number of aspects will be taken into account by the Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme when doing so.
If you are able to follow all of these steps you will be well on the way to producing a valuable drug.
