Nanomedicines in the EU-Regulatory Overview.

This article provides an overview of the European Union (EU) framework for the marketing authorisation of medicinal products, at both European and National level, and aims to demonstrate the current position and experience with nanomedicines. It will be described how the EU promotes the development of new nanomedicines by publishing guidance, providing scientific advice and engaging with multiple regions for the convergence of scientific requirements to support the quality, safety and efficacy of nanomedicines. It will also be highlighted the regulatory challenges deriving from the use of an innovative technology that crosses different platforms and the importance of overcoming challenges for the benefit of public health.

Next-generation nanomedicines and nanosimilars: EU regulators' initiatives relating to the development and evaluation of nanomedicines.

Over the last three decades many first-generation nanomedicines have successfully entered routine clinical use and it is now important for medicines regulatory agencies to consider the mechanisms needed to ensure safe introduction of 'follow-on' nanomedicine products, 'nanosimilars'. Moreover, drug regulators need to ensure that 'next'-generation nanomedicines enter clinical development and consequently the market in a safe and timely way for the benefit of public health. Here we review recent European Medicines Agency activities that relate to the effective development and evaluation of nanomedicine products while keeping patient and consumer safety at the forefront.