If a physician licenses a compound to a company, can they also act as a clinical investigator for that compound?

In this scenario, the core issue revolves around the potential conflict of interest that arises when a physician licenses a compound to a company and also takes on the role of a clinical investigator for that same compound. The correct answer emphasizes that such dual roles can compromise the objectivity and integrity of the research process.

When a physician has a financial stake in the outcome of a clinical trial—because they have licensed the compound—they may unintentionally bias the research, favoring results that reflect positively on their financial interests. This dual involvement raises important ethical concerns, as it jeopardizes the trust placed in the clinical trial process and could influence the physician's actions, decisions, and reporting.

While it is theoretically possible for a physician to disclose their financial interest and continue as a clinical investigator, the preferred and ethically sound practice is to avoid situations that create potential conflicts. To preserve the integrity of clinical trials, it is often best to separate the financial interests from the implementation and oversight of the study.

Thus, the assertion that the physician cannot act as a clinical investigator while having a financial interest in the compound aligns with the ethical standards put forth by regulatory bodies to safeguard the integrity of research and ensure that patient safety is prioritized.