Clinical Pharmacology at the Point of Decision

Abstract

Clinical pharmacology encompasses a broad set of quantitative and translational tools: pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, biomarkers, pharmacogenomics, modeling and simulation, and clinical and real-world evidence. Yet, the discipline’s true value lies not in the methods themselves. Its value lies in turning measurements into consequential therapeutic and development decisions such as which dose should be selected, criteria for treatment continuation or cessation, and quantifying uncertainty around use in each subpopulation. The articles in this issue of Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics illustrate clinical pharmacology at these points of decision. They span oncology, infectious diseases, neurology, transplantation, pharmacogenomics, regulatory science, and health-system value. The breadth is characteristic of the field