Mexico performs a very small number of Phase I clinical trials since Mexican regulation forbids paying patients for their participation in clinical trials, something that does not happen in other countries such as the US, England or some countries in Asia. Phase I trials are performed with healthy patients who are sometimes only motivated to participate in the trials due to the economic benefits, but as these are unavailable in Mexico there is little interest from the general public to participate. Phase II to IV studies involve sick patients throughout several stages of the disease who are willing to participate in the trials as it provides a potential cure for their diseases.

Phase I studies are virtually non-existent in the country. I think we need more trained staff to carry out research and attract projects to the country because we already have the necessary infrastructure. Investment for Phase I clinical research should be aimed at training nurses, doctors and other health workers to achieve this goal. Greater openness from the government can maximize Mexico’s infrastructure and its opportunities in clinical research.

Mexico has the ideal conditions for the development of pre-clinical Phase I trials. We have the capacity, knowledge and infrastructure, so we just need support for researchers in this field. The government and the pharmaceutical segment must push for a more assertive communication of these favorable conditions, both domestically and internationally