7 steps for successful clinical trial protocol design

Ensuring clinical trial success begins with a well-designed study protocol. Clear, comprehensive and easy to understand are the core qualities of a good protocol. In this article Cromos Pharma offers its top tips for successful protocol design.

GETTING IT RIGHT FROM THE START 

More than simply an instruction manual, the protocol serves many purposes and is the core mechanism used to translate an idea into a clinical trial.  When writing a protocol it is important to carefully consider the objectives of the study – from the scientific methodology to patient safety parameters. It is also crucial to critically assess its clinical importance and to robustly interrogate the feasibility of the study. However, successful protocols are also defined by simplicity, clarity, and practicality.

THE PIVOTAL ROLE OF THE PROTOCOL 

The protocol plays a pivotal role in the success of the study and is also vital to ensuring the safety of study participants as well as integrity of the data. In order to ensure compliance with statutory requirements and safeguard patient volunteers, protocols are submitted to an Institutional Review Board (IRB) and to regulatory authorities (e.g. FDA in USA and EMA in the EU). They are subjected to careful review prior to the Sponsor being allowed to conduct a trial. The protocol also provides instructions on how the study will be carried out by clinical staff. 

POORLY WRITTEN PROTOCOLS COST MONEY AND TIME

A poorly written protocol can have serious and costly consequences. The regulatory authority may require rewrites or updates. Clinical staff may misunderstand or misinterpret aspects of the protocol compromising the conclusions of the study and integrity of data collected. A study may be put on clinical hold causing delays to timelines. In the worst case scenario, a poor protocol can jeopardize patient safety or result in conclusions that don’t support regulatory approval. 

7 STEPS FOR SUCCESSFUL PROTOCOL DESIGN 

1. UNDERSTAND REQUIREMENTS BEFORE WRITING

This means being fully aware of ICH requirements as well as local laws and regulations in the country where the trial will be conducted (e.g. if you are conducting a trial in an EU country you will have to ensure compliance with local GDPR).

2. CONTENT GUIDELINES AND TEMPLATES 

Avoid leaving out important details by compiling a content list in advance by referring to all relevant ICH requirements and guidance of local regulatory authorities (e.g. FDA or EMA). Check your list carefully against current requirements. If you are using a template make sure to check that it is up to date with current regulations. 

3.    DEVELOP THE SYNOPSIS AND SCHEDULE OF EVENTS EARLY ON IN THE PROCESS

Developing the synopsis and a clear schedule of events early on can help avoid inconsistencies in the text and need for amendments later on. 

4.    CLEAR OBJECTIVES AND ENDPOINTS  

Ambiguity is to be avoided at all costs in a good protocol. Create clear, definitive objectives and associated endpoints and avoid being vague in the language used in the protocol. 

5.    PROVIDE DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS OF ASSESSMENTS AND OPERATIONAL FEASIBILITY

Provide clear, detailed information on the who, what, when, where, and how of study conduct so clinical staff can follow procedures effectively and consistently. It’s a good idea to run this past clinical operations staff to check for inconsistencies or potential for misunderstandings. 

6.    ARRANGE THE PROTOCOL TO PROMOTE EASE OF REFERENCE  

It may seem obvious but organizing your protocol in terms of layout so that readers can easily find specific sections is also really important in a good protocol. Using headers and sub headers effectively, as well as adding page numbers and section headings will help readers from regulatory authorities to clinical site staff more easily navigate the protocol.  

7.    RIGOROUS RISK-ASSESSMENT 

Finally, any study protocol should be subjected to rigorous risk-assessment before submission to highlight any inconsistencies and mitigate any risks. 

A WELL-DESIGNED PROTOCOL IS VITAL FOR CLINICAL TRIAL SUCCESS

 A well-designed and written protocol is vital for protecting patients, allowing for collection of high-quality data, and preventing delays in development timelines. A clear understanding of regulatory requirements, defined and relevant study objectives and endpoints, sufficient detail within the protocol, and ensuring that the protocol document is user friendly, will all assist in making your clinical trial a success.

Cromos Pharma has extensive experience in development, scientific and operational input, and adjustment to country specifics of clinical study protocols. Our expert team can assist you in the design and writing of a protocol and all other documentation to ensure that your project runs according to plan.