ICON’s clinical pharmacology unit, based in Manchester, has achieved the highest level of accreditation in Europe from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency.

This designation permits ICON to carry out all Phase I trials including first-in-human trials requiring review from the Expert Advisory Group.

The MHRA established the accreditation scheme in 2006 to formalise routine, rigorous inspections so that clinical safety standards are made even more robust. Accreditation is granted following a successful MHRA GCP Inspection where a unit must demonstrate appropriately trained personnel and facilities are immediately available to manage medical emergencies.