White paper

A white paper refers to a comprehensive report that elaborates on emerging technology or research such as newly developed medications or medical devices. Individuals or groups who possess authority on specific topics write white papers. White papers generally explain the development process of specific technology, the technology's use, statistical data and any additional information. Pharmaceutical companies can use white papers to inform others about their products or services and to market their products or services.

I recommend: Learn more about white papers at Pharmaceutical-Technology.com and also at FDA Pharmaceutical and Medical Device White Papers.

Package insert

The package insert refers to the comprehensive leaflet found inside packages of prescribed medications. The package insert, also known as prescribing information, lists the clinical pharmacology of the drug, warnings, precautions and adverse reactions, as well as the product's approved indications, usage and contraindications. Additionally, the package insert contains information about dosage and administration, formulation, and both the drug's generic and commercial name.

I recommend: Read more about the package insert at Consumer Health Information Corporation.

Research and development information

Track research and development information through publications that focus on forthcoming clinical research. Follow drug development, marketing trends and competitive intelligence with research and development publications.

I recommend: See Pharmaprojects to learn more about research and development information.

Physicians' Desk Reference

The Physicians' Desk Reference (PDR) refers to a comprehensive publication that contains information about prescription drugs in the United States. This exhaustive reference provides details including the composition and indications of pharmaceutical medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Biotech professionals, medical staff, health professionals and pharmacists regularly reference the PDR.

I recommend: Learn more about the Physicians Desk Reference at Thomson Healthcare.

Journal abstract

A journal abstract refers to the text that summarizes the essential points of a clinical research report. Medical journals publicize clinical research reports and generally feature journal abstracts at the beginning of each of them. Reading a journal abstract is an excellent way to gain a broad view of the information in the clinical research including the methodology used, study results and statistical analysis without having to read the entire report.

I recommend: See samples of journal abstracts at the Journal of the American Medical Association. 

Adverse event reporting forms

Adverse event reporting forms refer to documentation that outlines harmful events related to pharmaceutical medications. Consumers, medical staff, pharmaceutical professionals, biotech manufacturers and other individuals are encouraged to report adverse events.

I recommend: Review adverse event reporting forms and learn more about reporting unfavorable pharmaceutical drug outcomes at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.