From molecule to medicine
Everyone uses medication at some point. However, it is not a given that medicines are available. It typically takes 10 to 15 years for a pharmaceutical company to bring a new drug to market. Extensive research conducted by scientists and doctors precedes this process. With the help of volunteers, we develop new or improved medicines.
The path from laboratory to pharmacy
The development of a new drug begins primarily in laboratories, which involves preclinical research. If these results are promising, the first phase of drug research follows. Once the clinical phase begins, doctors from Johnson & Johnson CPU will administer the study medication in low doses to healthy volunteers. The key focus is always safety: we investigate the tolerability of the substance, possible side effects, how the molecules distribute in the human body, etc.
In the subsequent phases, the medication is tested on patients suffering from the disease for which the drug will be marketed, such as people with Alzheimer’s or diabetes. Scientists investigate whether the medication is effective against the disease and which dosage is most suitable.
Only when all information is known can a pharmaceutical company register a medicinal substance as a drug. The government assesses whether a new medicine can be approved in Belgium and whether doctors may prescribe it to patients.
Ongoing research
Even medications that are already available at the pharmacy are often subjected to further large-scale research. We test alternative delivery methods and investigate whether there may be any unknown long-term side effects.
You are essential!
Just like oxygen for the brain. Without you, no cure. Help us develop better or new medicines: become a volunteer and receive compensation.