Around 50% of drugs approved for use in adults are being used in children. Since children are growing and developing, vaccines and medications that are tested on adults will not always yield the same safety and efficacy results in children. This is why it is necessary to conduct clinical trials specifically involving children before a drug or vaccine is approved. The FDA is now encouraging pediatric clinical trials with two laws. The Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act (BPCA) will give an extra 6 months of marketing exclusivity for drug companies if they include children in their clinical trials. The Pediatric Research Equity Act (PREA) requires drug companies to conduct pediatric studies if necessary.
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