Investigational Product (IP)

Feb 28, 2025

What Does the ‘Investigational Product (IP)’ Mean?

An Investigational Product (IP) refers to a pharmaceutical form of an active ingredient or placebo being tested or used as a reference in a clinical trial. This includes products with existing marketing authorization that are being studied for new uses, formulations, or indications, as well as those not yet approved for marketing.

IPs are central to clinical research, as they are the interventions being evaluated for safety and efficacy. They undergo rigorous testing and must be manufactured, handled, and stored according to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines to ensure quality and consistency throughout the clinical trial process.

Why Is the ‘Investigational Product (IP)’ Important in Clinical Research?

The term ‘Investigational Product (IP)’ is crucial in clinical research as it provides a clear and standardized way to refer to the substance being studied. This terminology helps ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines and facilitates effective communication among researchers, sponsors, and regulatory bodies throughout the clinical trial process.

Understanding the concept of IP is essential for proper handling, documentation, and accountability of the study drug. It emphasizes the experimental nature of the product and the need for stringent protocols in its use, helping to maintain the integrity of the research and protect the safety of study participants.

Good Practices and Procedures

Implement a temperature monitoring system with real-time alerts for IP storage areas to ensure maintenance of required conditions.
Establish a reconciliation process to track IP units from receipt to return or destruction, including documentation of dosing errors or patient returns.
Develop a blinding procedure for double-blind studies, including use of identical packaging and labeling for active and placebo products.
Create an emergency unblinding protocol with 24/7 accessibility for managing potential adverse events while maintaining study integrity.
Institute a chain of custody documentation system for IP transfers between sites or to central laboratories for analysis.