Best Practices For Conducting Multinational Clinical Trials | Page 14

An NDA in Taiwan requires a complete data package to ensure safety and Figure 7. The Benefits of Working With Local Experts efficacy. While a rule states that two reference countries must approve a new drug first, this rule may be waived if a multinational clinical trial, regional, or local clinical study is conducted in Taiwan. For NCEs that are available elsewhere, a Bridging Study Evaluation (BSE) can be completed. The TFDA states the purpose of the BSE “is to provide clinical data, such as PK/PD, efficacy, safety, dosage, and dose regimen, associated with the population in Taiwan, so that foreign clinical data can be extrapolated to the corresponding population of Taiwan, hence minimizing the duplication of clinical trials.” If evaluation of the product has been completed in a population that reflects Taiwan, even in a foreign country, and the product is not sensitive to ethnic variations, no further studies may be required. If sensitivity to ethnicity is detected, then a bridging study is required. However, local experience suggests that local clinical data is a key success factor for this application, and the protocol may need to include plans for locally collected data. In Vietnam, a domestic drug manufacturer must meet the GMP standards of the Health Ministry while foreign drug manufacturers must satisfy GMP standards that are at least equivalent to the WHO-GMP.20 How can Clinipace Worldwide help with entry to Asia? » Clinipace Worldwide, as a global CRO, has recognized abilities in clinical trial design and experience with over 1,800 global clinical research studies, strategic product development projects, and regulatory engagements. With the recent acquisition of Choice Pharma, a Pan-Asian CRO, Clinipace acquired offices and local knowledge in Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Vietnam, Singapore, and Malaysia that are available to assist companies new to Asia gain entry to those countries. These local experts are positioned and available to assist with regulatory requirements, local legal representation for contracts and payment processes, comparator availability, local clinical/treatment guidelines, and availability and suitability of both PIs and sites. Proactive risk mitigation during protocol development saves time and headaches later, while experience with “rescue” trials can help sponsors save a trial that is not progressing due to unforeseen challenges with local regulatory requirements or recruitment. Trust-based relationships with investigators and sites that have been developed over time by local CROs are of great significance. In some Asian countries, the existence of these relationships prior to protocol development, when investigators and sites are being chosen, can deter-mine the success of the trial. Local CROs can help select a site and PI that will accommodate even a difficult study and will even provide advice for successful study completion. clinipace.com 13