Ethical Considerations in Selecting Subject Populations for Drug Research

Abstract

The implications of the literal interpretation of established ethical codes versus the application of ad hoc moral principles are discussed and the concerns of minimiz ing risk, maximizing the scientific value of data, and provid ing adequate subject indemnification are examined. It is con cluded that the paramount ethical consideration in selecting subject populations is the diffusion of risk and the provision of adequate indemnification. Judicious selection of subject populations is essential and ad hoc moral principles should prevail at times over the use of established written codes.