Development in the number of clinical trial applications in Western Europe from 2007 to 2015: retrospective study of data from national competent authorities

Abstract

This study found a significant decrease in the number of CTAs in Western Europe from 2007 to 2011 (AAGR -3.9%). This development is possibly attributable to several factors such as the European Clinical Trials Directive, national and local political decisions, and a potential global shift in clinical trial activity. From 2014 to 2015, the number of CTAs increased markedly (10%). However, it is yet too soon to determine if this constitutes a transient fluctuation or a new trend.