OPTIMIZATION OF METHODS AND MODELS IN CLINICAL-PHARMACOLOGY

Utilization of methods and models undoubtedly has its merits in the ev aluation and interpretation of data in clinical pharmacology, but it i s a process that ought to follow rigorous scientific rules and thought s. For a discussion about optimization-a word concerning the quality o f a procedure-the meaning and extent of the terms, methods, and models ore defined. and different types of models are identified. In drug de velopment. many steps can be improved, some within the pharmaceutical companies, some in the interaction with other organizations. This situ ation requires good organization and scientific sincerity. Some of the pitfalls encountered in daily work are described.