Paediatric clinical trials need paediatric clinical trial budgets.

AIM: Clinical trials and the need for new treatments were recently listed among the most important factors for child health. The aim of the present study was to describe some of our experiences with budget preparations in paediatric clinical trials. METHODS: We selected 10 trials sponsored by the pharmaceutical industry at the Pediatric Clinical Research Center at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden. We compared the sponsor's initial budget (budget proposal from the sponsor), with the final budget (negotiated and agreed between sponsor and site) and identified areas where discrepancies may arise. RESULTS: The mean difference in total budget amount between the initial budget and the final budget was +60% (mean 59%, range 31%-139%). The costs for preparation of the clinical trial, time spent for study activities and costs for examinations were identified as key budget items for these differences. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate that a substantial part of the trial-related costs would not be covered by the sponsor, had the initial budget been accepted. A thorough review and budget negotiation, as well as to have a dedicated team member for this task, are essential to ensure equitable responsibility for the study-related costs and to avoid discontinuation of trials.

The Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and its implementation in paediatric clinical research.

The amount of research being performed in children, in particular pharmacological research, is lower than in adults, which is in direct contrast to the aims of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. A Pediatric Clinical Research Center (PCRC) has been established at Sahlgrenska University Hospital with the aim of supporting clinical research in children and adolescents. The number of inquiries and initiated clinical studies at PCRC has increased since the start in 2016. In addition, there is a need for regional and national infrastructures for paediatric clinical research and a national network for paediatric clinical studies. CONCLUSION: Sahlgrenska University Hospital has established an infrastructure to support paediatric research and to work with national networks and infrastructures.