EMA to Provide Free Scientific Advice for Some Orphan Drug Developers

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) said it plans to offer free scientific advice for academic institutions developing orphan drugs.

The agency acknowledged that its fees for protocol assistance present a hurdle for such institutions, but said it believes early interaction with them is important to promote new orphan drugs.

The EMA said it will provide the free advice to higher education institutes, nonprofit research organizations and interest groups.