Changes in Early-Phase Clinical Trials in China During 2013–2022: A Review

Abstract

Clinical trials on innovative drugs in China have witnessed a stage of rapid development in recent years. The introduction of a number of government policies has stimulated enthusiasm for research and development in the pharmaceutical industry. We analyzed the data of the early-phase clinical trials registered in the Chinese Center for Drug Evaluation (CDE) from September 6, 2013, to December 31, 2022. All related registration information disclosed on the CDE website, including posted time, drug classification, dosing formula, indications, trial design, and trial status, were summarized and analyzed. A total of 5336 early-phase clinical trials were identified. The quantity and growth rate of early-phase clinical trials have increased substantially each year. Chemical drugs accounted for the largest proportion of early-phase clinical trials, although it dropped from 85.7% in 2013 to 59.5% in 2022. Moreover, the number of oncology drugs has increased yearly, accounting for 49.2% of all early-phase clinical trials in 2022. We can conclude that during 2013–2022, the development of early-phase clinical trials has progressed due to government support and advanced development techniques. To enhance the efficiency and success rate of early-phase clinical trials in the future, it is necessary to acquire advanced technical support and improve standardized supervision systems.