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FDA to require researchers to disclose interests WASHINGTON (February 2, 1998 4:13 p.m. EST http://www.nando.net) - The Food and Drug Administration said Monday that it wants to be informed of any business interests that researchers may have in new drugs and medical devices that come before the agency for approval. The agency said it will require drug companies to make the disclosures under rules that will go into effect in a year. "Although some have argued that there is nothing inherently wrong with scientists in the private sector and academia having financial interest in the products they study, FDA must be aware of these relationships," FDA Deputy Commissioner Michael Friedman said in a statement. The agency said it wants information about researchers' compensation that could be affected by the outcome of their studies. It also wants to know of any patents held by researchers or significant equity interest in the marketing company. The FDA said it also wants information on any other significant payments to researchers by drug companies, such as grants for ongoing research, compensation in the form of equipment, retainers for consultation, or honorariums. "This regulation will help assure that the process is thoroughly open and above-board," Friedman added. The agency said it intends to propose similar disclosure requirements for submissions dealing with foods and animal drugs. Copyright 1998 Nando.net Copyright 1998 Reuters News Service janet paterson / 50-9 /sinemet-selegiline-prozac / [log in to unmask]