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Investigational New Drug (IND) Applications: A Medical Writer's Guide On How To Write an IND

Investigational New Drug (IND) Applications: A Medical Writer's Guide On How To Write an IND

Are you a newbie in the medical writing field and facing difficulties writing an Investigational New Drug (IND) application? Then you’ve landed in the right place. 

As a medical communications specialist, I understand that writing an IND can be overwhelming, especially for those new to the process.

But fear not! This guide will walk you through the essential steps for writing a practical IND application.

Whether you are a seasoned medical writer or a novice, this guide will provide practical tips to help you navigate the complex world of IND applications. 

So, let’s get started!

What is IND in Medical Writing?

An Investigational New Drug (IND) is a submission made to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for permission to test a new drug in humans.

The IND is an essential component of the drug development process in medical writing because it is the first step toward conducting clinical trials in humans. The drug sponsor or manufacturer makes the submission, which must demonstrate the new drug’s safety and effectiveness before it can be approved for marketing.

The IND application contains detailed information about the drug, such as its chemistry, manufacturing, and controls (CMC). Additionally, it includes valuable data from nonclinical studies and proposed clinical trial protocols. The FDA reviews the IND to ensure that the proposed clinical trials are safe and ethical and that the drug’s potential benefits outweigh any risks.

Medical writers play a crucial role in preparing IND submissions. They are responsible for compiling and presenting scientific data concisely and accurately. Moreover, their effective communication of the new drug’s safety and efficacy contributes to the success of the IND application and its marketing approval.

What are the Three Types of IND?

There are three main types of IND applications for non-commercial drug products.

Traditional IND

A traditional IND is the most common type of IND application. It is used for drugs not previously tested in humans and intended to treat severe or life-threatening conditions. The traditional IND includes data from nonclinical studies and proposes a clinical development plan. 

Emergency Use IND

An emergency use IND provides access to an investigational drug for patients with severe or life-threatening conditions when no other treatment options are available. A physician or sponsor can quickly submit IND for emergency use, and the FDA must approve it within 24 hours.

Treatment IND

A treatment IND is used for drugs that have completed Phase 1 testing and are intended to treat patients with critical or life-threatening conditions. The treatment IND allows patients to receive the drug outside a clinical trial setting.

What are the Components of an IND Application?

The IND application typically includes the following components:

Investigator's Brochure

The Investigator’s Brochure (IB) is a comprehensive document summarizing the drug’s pharmacology, toxicology, and clinical development plan. Its purpose is to provide the clinical investigator with the information needed to conduct the clinical trial.

Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) information

The CMC section of the IND application provides detailed information on the drug substance and product, including the manufacturing process, analytical methods, and specifications.

Clinical trial protocol

The clinical trial protocol outlines the study’s design, objectives, endpoints, and inclusion/exclusion criteria for the clinical trial. It also provides information on the study population, the dosing regimen, and the safety monitoring plan.

Nonclinical study reports

A nonclinical study report provides data on the drug’s safety and efficacy in animal models. This section of the IND application typically includes data from pharmacology, toxicology, and pharmacokinetic studies.

Other supporting documents

Additional supporting documents that may be included in the IND application include regulatory documents, such as the FDA Form. They also contain documentation related to the qualifications and experience of the clinical investigators.

How to Write an Effective IND Application?

Writing a practical IND application requires attention to detail and a clear understanding of the regulatory requirements. It also demands strong communication and collaboration between the various stakeholders involved. 

Some dos and don’ts are listed below.

Dos for writing an effective IND application

  • Familiarize yourself with the IND regulations and guidelines set forth by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
  • Work closely with the drug sponsors, clinical investigators, and other team members to ensure all necessary information is included in the IND application.
  • Provide clear and concise descriptions of the drug’s chemistry, manufacturing, and controls (CMC) information.
  • Provide detailed information on the clinical trial protocol, including the study design, study population, endpoints, and statistical analysis plan.
  • Provide a thorough summary of the nonclinical study reports, including animal and toxicology studies results.

Don'ts for writing an effective IND application

  • Don’t submit an incomplete or poorly written IND application.
  • Avoid making assumptions about the drug’s safety or efficacy without ample evidence to support your claims.
  • Ensure to pay attention to the importance of the Investigator’s Brochure, which summarizes the current drug knowledge. 
  • Don’t forget to provide supporting documents, such as pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data, if applicable.
  • Take your time preparing the IND application because all information must be accurate and complete.

By following these dos and don’ts, medical writers can enhance the quality of their IND applications and increase the likelihood of gaining approval for clinical trials in humans.

Wrap Up

In conclusion, preparing an Investigational New Drug (IND) application can be complex and challenging. It demands a clear understanding of the regulatory requirements, careful attention to detail, and stakeholder collaboration. 

As a medical writer with extensive experience in IND submissions, I can assist you in providing high-quality IND applications. With my expertise, you can be confident that your application meets regulatory requirements and is well-written and compelling.

So, if you’re looking for help with your IND application, feel free to contact me today and work with your very own medical writer, Akasious.

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