The ethical boundaries of drug research in pediatrics.

Research abuses in the pediatric setting, mistakes, regulation, minimal investment, and professional misconceptions may contribute to children becoming therapeutic orphans. The moral imperative to expand pediatric pharmacology is urgent but the enterprise is not without risk. Pediatricians as experts in child care are privileged to be able to advocate for the expansion of this invaluable research while simultaneously advocating for the children who are to be involved. In the development of ethical drug research, children's well-being and empowerment can be realized. A shared commitment will help to ensure that in the future we will be better able to provide safe and effective medication and so greatly enhance the care of children.