Most of the clinical trial work that occurs before a drug is approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration is not fully published – often due to “cozy” relationships between pharmaceutical companies and the health care industry. However, one man is trying to change that. If he is successful, it may change the way the drug industry currently operates.

Too Close For Comfort

That’s how Peter Doshi, a Johns Hopkins University postdoctoral fellow, describes the relationships between pharmaceutical companies and the health care industry. According to a recent expose in the New York Times, he is collaborating with other researchers and activists to have pharmaceutical companies release and publicize information about clinical trial work. He and many other consumer advocate groups have alleged that the financial ties between the two can often morph into questionable practices – and injure innocent and unknowing patients.

Some of these ties are astounding. According to the Times, many pharmaceutical companies market their drugs via “consultative” relationships with physicians. In fact, it is estimated that 25% of doctors have accepted compensation from drug and device makers in exchange for advice, speaking engagements and the promise to prescribe the company’s drugs for “off label” uses that have not been cleared by the FDA.

Holding Drug Companies Responsible

Drug companies that use deceptive means to sell their products at the expense of patient safety must be held responsible for their actions. If you’ve been injured by a dangerous or defective drug, contact The Driscoll Firm, LLC, and consult with our team of experienced product liability attorneys to determine whether you might be entitled to compensation. We have the means and the experience to take on the largest pharmaceutical companies and have recovered over $170 million for our clients.