Comparator Drug Sourcing vs. Clinical Trial Logistics: What’s the Bigger Challenge?

In clinical trials, every element of the supply chain matters. From sourcing high-quality comparator drugs to managing timelines across borders, sponsors often ask: which is the bigger challenge, drug sourcing or the logistics that follow? At Clinical Services International (CSI), we believe the answer isn’t either/or. It’s how you manage both that determines trial success.

Comparator Sourcing: A Global Jigsaw Puzzle

Sourcing comparator drugs can be a significant challenge, particularly when:

• The product is in short supply or under allocation

• The trial requires access to brands from specific markets

• There are tight timelines and narrow expiry windows

• Sponsors need specific batches or documentation, such as CoAs or TSE/BSE statements

• The drug is subject to import/export restrictions

These complexities are amplified in regions with fragmented regulatory environments or limited distribution networks. That’s why CSI maintains direct accounts with most major manufacturers and a global sourcing network, enabling us to secure even hard-to-source drugs quickly and compliantly.

 

Clinical Trial Logistics: The Invisible Risk

Even with comparators in hand, the real test often lies in getting those products to the right place, at the right time and under the right conditions. Logistics hurdles can quietly derail a trial if not proactively managed.

Some of the most critical challenges include:

• Cross-border customs delays

• Temperature excursions during transit or at storage sites

• Site-specific import requirements and licensing

• Mismatched labelling and language translations

For global, multi-site and especially Phase III trials, these risks are magnified. CSI’s solution? Integrated supply chain management.

How CSI Overcomes These Challenges

At CSI, we don’t just source drugs, we de-risk the entire supply chain. Here's how:

Strategic Forecasting & Planning

CSI tailors supply strategies to align with projections, protocol timelines and product shelf-life to ensure optimal availability while minimizing waste.

Global Warehouse Network

With facilities in over 60 countries, we provide flexible local storage options and rapid deployment capabilities.

End-to-End Distribution

From import/export documentation to temperature-controlled logistics, CSI manages every shipment from door to door with real-time oversight.

Regulatory Expertise

Our team provides site-specific regulatory support, ensuring local compliance and smooth customs clearance, especially in high-risk markets.

Returns & Destruction

Post-trial, we handle compliant product return, reconciliation, and destruction, taking the burden off sponsors and CROs.

Conclusion: It’s Not Either/Or. It’s Both

While comparator drug sourcing is complex, particularly in times of global shortage or tight timelines, the logistical execution can be equally, if not more, fraught with risk. That’s why CSI takes a integrated approach.

By combining sourcing expertise with robust supply chain capabilities, we help our clients move faster, stay compliant, and control costs, from protocol design through to last patient out.

Need help solving a supply challenge? Contact CSI today to find out how we can support your trial from sourcing to final shipment.

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