Investigational Drug Section

Institute for Drug Development

The Investigational Drug Section (IDS) provides pharmaceutical services for:

• Phase I investigational studies in oncology patients
• Conventional chemotherapy treatments
• University Health System investigators including Southwest Oncology Group (SWOG) and the National Surgical Adjuvant Bowel and Breast Project (NSABP).

The IDS employs three pharmacists and three pharmacy technicians with a combined total of over 25 years of experience at the CTRC. The IDS staff is happy to assist pharmaceutical companies in the development process of new agents, including:

• Reviewing the patient's medication list for prohibited medications and alternative treatment recommendations when enrolling on investigational protocols
• Discussing methods to administer investigational medications
• Providing a table of the syringes, IV bags, and tubing used at the CTRC for compatibility testing
• Assisting companies with obtaining syringes, IV bags, and tubing for compatibility testing
• Answering or directing questions to the appropriate individual(s) at the CTRC

The IDS pharmacists also assist physicians and physician extenders in providing therapeutic considerations on conventional therapies and supportive care recommendations. Additionally, IDS clinical pharmacists provide medication and side effect management counseling to patients while on treatment.

For additional information, contact:

Anita Garcia, PharmD, BCOP
Director of Pharmacy
CTRC Institute for Drug Development
7979 Wurzbach Road, G354
San Antonio, Texas 78229
Phone: (210) 450-5885
garciaaa@uthscsa.edu