What is the process for developing & approving a new medication?

The drug approval process begins with the discovery of a potential drug. Pharmaceutical companies then test the drug extensively.

Click the following link to access a PDF description of the different stages in the drug approval process in the U.S.

What kind of studies do you do?

Here at IPS we have historically specialized in clinical drug trials dealing with psychiatric disorders. We have experience with Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Depression, ADHD, GAD, PTSD, Dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Child Depression and a variety of Anxiety Disorders. Click the following to access a more detailed look at these disorders.

What is a clinical drug trial?

A clinical drug trial is a part of the process by which new medications are tested in order to gain approval by the F.D.A for general prescribing by Doctors. Pharmaceutical companies usually sponsor these trials. The trials provide information about both the effectiveness and safety of a new medication to the F.D.A. They also provide the participants with an opportunity to try a treatment usually not available to them.

How many years experience does the company have?

IPS Research was established in the spring of 1996 – however the combined experience of our research staff exceeds 50 years.

Is there a cost to participate in a research study?

There is no cost to participate in a clinical drug trial. All medications, procedures, examinations and hospitalizations (when appropriate) are free. Most clinical drug trials also compensate patients for travel expenses.

What can I expect if I agree to participate in a drug trial?

You will be asked to sign a consent form which outlines the study, your risks, rights, and what you can expect from the experimental drug. You must sign the consent form before any procedures can be completed. You can then expect a physical examination, medical history, family history and a variety of screening test to determine whether you qualify for the drug trial. If you qualify the drug trial will begin.

What if I don’t like how the study medication makes me feel?

As with any medication you must decide whether the benefits outweigh the side effects. You can quit a clinical drug trial any time you choose.

How do I qualify for a study?

All clinical drug trials have different qualifying criteria. The best way to qualify for a clinical drug trial is to try. You should never assume that you won’t qualify.