Learn About Drug and Device Approvals

The development of drugs and medical devices follows well-established paths to make sure that they are safe and effective when they reach the public. From concept to approval and beyond, FDA:

• Reviews research data and information about drugs and devices before they become available to the public.

• Watches for drug problems once drugs and devices are available to the public.

• Monitors drug information and advertising.

• Protects drug quality.

Drug and Device Development Processes

The development processes for drugs and devices are similar–each involves five basic steps. However, the processes differ within those steps. Click on either Drug Development or Device Development in the graphic below to learn more.

 

 

Step 1

Discovery/Concept

Discovery/Concept
Research for a new drug or device begins in the laboratory.
Drug Development   Device Development

 

Step 2

Preclinical Research

Preclinical Research
Drugs and devices undergo laboratory and animal testing to answer basic questions about safety.
Drug Development   Device Development

 

Step 3

Clinical Research

Clinical Research
Drugs and devices are tested on people to make sure they are safe and effective.
Drug Development   Device Development

 

Step 4

FDA Review

FDA Review
FDA review teams thoroughly examine all of the submitted data related to the drug or device and make a decision to approve or not to approve it.
Drug Development   Device Development

 

Step 5

FDA Post-Market
Safety Monitoring

FDA Post-Market Safety Monitoring
FDA monitors all drug and device safety once products are available for use by the public.
Drug Development   Device Development

 

 

Resources For You

• Search for FDA-Approved Drugs
• Report Side Effects on MedWatch