Pharmaceutical companies are increasingly looking to Brazil and Turkey as key destinations for conducting clinical trials, particularly for cancer drugs, driven by the need to reduce the high costs associated with clinical research. These countries offer a combination of streamlined regulatory processes and lower operational expenses compared to traditional markets like the US and Europe, making them attractive alternatives for pharmaceutical development.
Regulatory Reforms and Streamlined Approvals
In Turkey, the Turkish Medicines and Medical Devices Agency (TITCK) has been proactive in reforming regulatory frameworks to streamline the approval process for clinical trials. By reducing administrative hurdles and accelerating review times, TITCK has made it easier for pharmaceutical companies to initiate and conduct studies. Similarly, Brazil’s National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) has implemented measures to attract more clinical trials, including simplifying regulatory requirements and fostering a more transparent environment for research.
Pharmaceutical Giants Investing in Clinical Trials
These efforts have attracted significant interest from prominent pharmaceutical companies, including AstraZeneca, Merck, Novartis, Roche, Amgen, GlaxoSmithKline, Bristol Myers Squibb, and Bayer. Many of these organizations are currently organizing major clinical trials in Brazil and Turkey, particularly those in Phase 3, which is critical for the eventual approval of new cancer drugs. Examples of cancer drugs currently undergoing phase 3 clinical trials in both regions include Aflibercept, Savolitinib, Ensartinib, Adagrasib, Mosunetuzumab and Canakinumab.
Collaborative Ecosystem for Cancer Research
The collaboration between pharmaceutical companies and leading cancer institutes and hospitals, including Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul and Istanbul Medipol University Hospital, is fostering an ecosystem conducive to innovative cancer research. These institutions are developing robust partnerships with leading drug manufacturers, enhancing the quality of clinical trials through access to diverse patient populations, which facilitates the recruitment of participants who meet specific trial criteria.
CROs Streamlining Clinical Trial Processes
Contract research organizations (CROs) also play a crucial role in streamlining clinical trial processes in both countries. These organizations facilitate the management and execution of clinical trials, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards while optimizing operational efficiency. By leveraging their expertise, CROs help reduce the time and cost associated with conducting trials, which is crucial for companies aiming to bring new cancer therapies to market swiftly.
As the global demand for innovative cancer treatments continues to rise, Brazil and Turkey are poised to capitalize on this trend. Their commitment to improving regulatory frameworks, coupled with the presence of reputable clinical research institutions and the active participation of major pharmaceutical companies, positions these nations as attractive hubs for clinical trials. The concerted efforts of the local regulatory bodies, along with the support from CROs, are likely to further enhance the appeal of these countries as leading destinations for clinical research in the coming years.
