Abstract
A survey was conducted among members of the Clinical Section of the British Pharmacological Society. The main aims were to find out how many healthy volunteer studies had been undertaken in the year from October 1, 1986, to September 30, 1987, and how many volunteers had suffered adverse effects. A total of 7,607 individual drug administrations were recorded as part of class practical studies. Minor side effects only were noted in 6% of the volunteers. A total of 8,163 healthy volunteers were given drugs for research purpose in the year, and minor side effects were noted in 6.9%. Moderately severe adverse effects (needing medical attention) were noted in 45 subjects (0.55%), and 3 volunteers (0.04%) required hospitalization because of adverse effects, although there were no lasting sequelae. Healthy volunteer studies have a potential for adverse effects, but the risk is very small and we make a number of suggestions to improve safety.
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