Drug approval testing

In most jurisdictions before a drug can be prescribed, it must undergo an extensive approval process. This process involves first testing the drug on animals or in medical labs. If found to be safe by the approving authority and approved for the next phase of study, the drug is then tested for safety and effectiveness in humans (clinical trials).

The drug manufacturer then files a New Drug Application to the FDA, which reviews the application and either approves or rejects it.

In the United States, the FDA approves drugs.

Testing for psychological effects
As it becomes increasingly clear that many medications, often prescribed to treat physical conditions, have extensive side effects affecting various aspects of cognitive functioning, including executive functioning, memory loss etc. it is important that the testing protocols for all drugs prior to approval monitors these areas of performance.