[Drug-related clinical research--a practical opportunity for the hospital pharmacist].
OBJECTIVE
To describe a pharmacist s field of activity in drug-related clinical trials.


METHODS
A non-systematic assessment of available scientific literature in international databases queried during the period of May 05 to 31, 2005.


RESULTS
In all, 36 papers were obtained regarding the role of hospital pharmacists in the development of drug-related clinical trials. Most common activities included dispensation, storage, and inventory. Participation in ethics committees and study coordination represent an expanding area.


CONCLUSIONS
Drug-related clinical research is an excellent practical setting for the hospital pharmacist. Activities related to investigational drug control, including dispensation, randomization scheme management, and patient follow-up, are an example. This is a novel though rapidly expanding scenario in Brazil.
Santos
P M
PM
Servicio de Farmacia, Hospital Universitario, Universidad Federal de Bahía, Brasil.
Oliveira
M G G
MG
Costa
L A
LA
Noblat
L
L
D035843:Biomedical Research; D010595:Pharmacists; D010607:Pharmacy Service, Hospital