There is currently limited acceptance of foreign clinical data by regulatory authorities, although the reasons for repeating studies are poorly defined. There are some proven genetic differences in drug metabolism and elimination which occur with varying frequencies in different populations. In addition, there are differences in culture, environment and medical practice which can impact on drug reponsiveness.

At a time when it is becoming usual for medicines to be developed for a global market and pharmaceutical companies are endeavouring to expedite the drug development process, Regulatory authorities are concentrating on improving their efficiency and effectiveness. Therefore, it is not surprising that questions are being asked as to how performance might be measured and compared between different authorities who are now often in receipt of dossiers that have been submitted to several agencies at the same time. Issues such as what target should be set for the review of new medicines? and how can...