Definition:

A Clinical Trial Authorization is a formal regulatory approval granted by a competent regulatory authority (or authorities) that permits a clinical trial involving human participants—particularly those testing investigational medicinal products—to commence under defined conditions. It is based on evaluation of the proposed trial protocol, the investigational product(s), safety (including risk/benefit balance), ethical aspects (including subject protection, informed consent), and associated pharmacovigilance plans.

Key features include:

  • Ensuring legal and ethical compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and good clinical practice.
  • Assessment of scientific validity and justification of the trial design.
  • Specification of safety monitoring and adverse event reporting procedures.
  • Review of investigators’ qualifications and site capability.
  • Oversight by both regulatory authority and ethics committees / institutional review boards.