Number: RL30913
Title: Pharmaceutical Research and Development and Analysis of the Process
Authors: Richard Rowberg, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: The purpose of this report is to help the reader understand the pharmaceutical R&D process as part of the knowledge needed to evaluate the debate about drug pricing. In addition, however, the pharmaceutical R&D process and future prospects raise a number of issues on their own. This report provides a description of that process and analyzes a number of those key issues. The steps of the research process are described. Various factors affecting the duration and costs of the process are discussed, An analysis is presented of topics pertinent to the R&D process that may be of interest to Congress.
Pages: 28
Date: Updated April 2, 2001