The Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act and Pediatric Research Equity Act reach the age of majority-An oncology perspective.

ABSTRACT

The scarcity of adequate pediatric drug labeling information has long been problematic in the pediatric population, which may place children at risk for adverse drug effects. The ontogeny of infants, children, and adolescents over the course of the first two decades of life pose complex pharmacokinetic, dosing, administration, effectiveness, and toxicity-related questions that require specific investigation. Here, we review the history that led to the passage of the Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act (BPCA) and Pediatric Research Equity Act (PREA), and provide commentary on issues relevant to pediatric oncology now and in the future.