Strategy Partnerships for Budget Value As we enter Q4, many clinical operations teams face the familiar challenge of budget utilization. In research-driven organizations, unspent funds create pressure to allocate resources quickly. Yet, reactive decisions can compromise study timelines, inflate costs or affect compliance. The question becomes: how can sponsors and CROs transform year-end budget pressures into a strategic advantage? From Short-Term Spending to Strategic Investment Rather than rushing to close out the year, clinical trial directors can view this period as an opportunity to strengthen their supply chain foundations. Investing in a comparator sourcing partner who offers proactive procurement strategies, such as securing long-lead items before they become critical, can provide a buffer against future delays and cost escalations. The Role of Strong Partnerships A common denominator in successful budget optimization is partnership. Collaborating with a solutions provider who bring scientific expertise, regulatory insight and global access can turn year-end funds into future resilience. A trusted partner such as Clinical Services International (CSI) can prevent short-term fixes from becoming long-term problems, whether it’s ensuring Certificates of Analysis (CoAs) are in place or reducing approval bottlenecks. Aligning Budgets with Broader Goals Budget allocation is not only about operational efficiency but also about aligning with sustainability, diversity and governance objectives. Strategic sourcing that incorporates responsible supply practices enables organizations to meet corporate responsibility goals while driving trial success. CSI has been awarded the prestigious Platinum EcoVadis Award, placing CSI in the Top 1% of sustainable companies worldwide. Looking Ahead Year-end is a moment to assess, reframe and plan for the year to come. By treating remaining budgets as an opportunity for strategic investment, clinical teams can position themselves for smoother, more efficient studies in the year ahead. We look forward to continuing these conversations in person. Our scientific, expert team will be attending GCSG Budapest , OCT New England , and CTS East Coast  and we welcome the opportunity to connect with peers and discuss how thoughtful sourcing strategies can unlock long-term value for your clinical research.

On November 4th-5th, join CSI’s Managing Director, Vanessa Dekou and Head of Operations, North America, Jonathan Miller at the Sheraton Valley Forge, King of Prussia, PA for this gathering of clinical trial supply professional at Clinical Trial Supply East Coast 2025.   Our Managing Director, Vanessa Dekou, will be delivering a presentation at 11:30am on Day 1, discussing how CSI’s expertise in comparator sourcing, global access and supply chain solutions can support your next study.

Join us on October 15–16 at the Encore Boston Harbor, MA, for one of the leading events in clinical trial operations, Outsourcing in Clinical Trials, New England. Representing CSI will be Yasmine Clemson , Project Management and Marketing Associate and Jessica Ianiro , Project Management Associate. We’re looking forward to connecting with sponsors, CROs, and industry peers to discuss how CSI’s expertise in comparator sourcing and clinical supply solutions can help streamline your next study.

Rare disease clinical trials present a distinct set of challenges that make sourcing strategies critical to study success. With fewer patients, limited historical data and small global treatment populations, every component of the trial must be executed with precision, especially the sourcing of comparator drugs and ancillary supplies. In rare disease studies patient recruitment is already difficult. Delays due to drug unavailability or supply chain inefficiencies can have a disproportionate impact. That’s why sourcing partners must provide not only access to global networks but also the agility to respond to evolving study needs in real time. One of the primary complexities is the availability of specific comparator drugs. These may be niche treatments manufactured in low volumes or subject to regional restrictions. Direct relationships with global manufacturers and wholesalers are crucial to overcoming these hurdles. A sourcing partner that can navigate regional regulatory requirements and provide Certificates of Analysis (CoA) ensures compliance while reducing approval timelines. Additionally, rare disease trials often require small-batch or customized packaging, labelling and cold chain management. The ability to coordinate these services efficiently across multiple markets can help sponsors maintain study continuity and avoid costly delays. Sustainability and ethical sourcing are increasingly important in today’s industries. Working with partners that hold relevant certifications and understand the ethical considerations unique to rare disease research is important, especially when vulnerable patient populations are involved. Ultimately, successful sourcing for rare disease clinical trials comes down to having the combination of scientific expertise, global access, regulatory knowledge and flexibility for any last-minute changes. When executed well, it supports patient-centric research by ensuring that trial materials are available exactly where and when they are needed, no matter how complex the study design. Reach out to CSI, your rare disease sourcing partners.

From 14 th -16th October, join CSI's representatives at The Corinthia, Budapest for the leading clinical supply chain event, GCSG Europe 2025.   Our Managing Director, Vanessa Dekou , accompanied by Stephan Muetze , will be hosting an interactive workshop: "Supply Plan Agreements Between Clinical Supplies, Clinical Teams and Vendors" sharing her expertise on ensuring study success.   We’re looking forward to connecting with industry peers and contributing to the conversation on best practices in clinical trial supply.

On 17th–18th September, our Director of Project Management, Stephan Muetze , and Project Manager, Aylin Asadian , will be on-site at the Messe , Düsseldorf, to discuss all things relating to clinical trial supply; from global sourcing to product access and logistics.   If you’re attending, come and connect with us to explore how CSI can support your next study.

CSI is excited to have our Managing Director Vanessa Dekou featured on the front cover of Life Sciences Magazine!  This recognition is not only a personal achievement but a testament to the incredible work of the Clinical Services International team. We have been driving excellence in clinical trial services, making a real impact to clinical research and patients lives. Read the Life Sciences Review article here.

Rapid Supply of Abraxane in Europe Client Request: Urgent Need for Abraxane A global pharmaceutical sponsor was in a tight spot. They needed 450 packs of Abraxane (nab-paclitaxel) for sites across Europe. Unfortunately, their original supplier could not meet the demand within the required timeline. This situation threatened to delay patient enrolment and jeopardise key study milestones. The Challenge: Overcoming Obstacles The project faced several challenges: Short lead time with limited product availability in local markets. The necessity for a Certificate of Analysis (CoA). The requirement for a single-batch supply. These factors made the situation even more complex. The urgency was palpable, and the stakes were high. CSI’s Solution: A Swift Response CSI stepped in as a contingency supplier. They leveraged their direct relationships with manufacturers to secure the needed packs quickly. Within 72 hours , CSI arranged for: Sourcing and batch confirmation. Preparation of regulatory documents and coordination of QP release. Temperature-controlled shipping to depots across Europe. This rapid response was crucial in addressing the client's needs. Outcome: Success Against the Odds CSI successfully delivered the full quantity of Abraxane ahead of the study timeline. This achievement avoided any site activation delays and ensured that patient dosing remained on track. The client praised CSI’s responsiveness, transparency, and ability to act swiftly without compromising compliance. Key Benefits Delivered The project yielded several key benefits: 450 packs delivered under critical timelines. CoA documentation was provided. 100% batch consistency across all sites. No delays to first-patient-first-visit (FPFV). These outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness of CSI's approach. Conclusion: A Proven Partner in Critical Times When time was critical, CSI delivered. This project showcases CSI’s proven ability to respond to urgent needs with speed and reliability. They have established themselves as a valuable partner in keeping trials on track. The Importance of Timely Supply in Clinical Trials In clinical trials, timely supply is paramount. Delays can lead to significant setbacks, affecting not only the study's timeline but also patient care. Ensuring that essential medications are available when needed is crucial for the success of any trial. Strategies for Ensuring Timely Supply Establish Strong Relationships with Suppliers: Building direct connections with manufacturers can expedite the sourcing process. Maintain Inventory Levels: Keeping a buffer stock of critical medications can help mitigate supply chain disruptions. Plan for Regulatory Requirements: Understanding and preparing for the necessary documentation can streamline the approval process. Utilise Temperature-Controlled Shipping: Ensuring that products are transported under the right conditions is vital for maintaining their efficacy. The Role of Technology in Supply Chain Management Technology plays a significant role in modern supply chain management. Advanced tracking systems can provide real-time updates on inventory levels and shipment status. This visibility allows for better planning and quicker responses to potential issues. Future Trends in Pharmaceutical Supply Chains As the pharmaceutical industry evolves, several trends are emerging: Increased Automation: Automation can enhance efficiency and reduce human error in supply chain processes. Sustainability Initiatives: There is a growing focus on sustainable practices within the supply chain, from sourcing to packaging. Blockchain Technology: This technology can improve transparency and traceability in the supply chain, ensuring compliance and quality. By staying ahead of these trends, companies can better prepare for future challenges in the pharmaceutical supply chain. Final Thoughts The rapid supply of Abraxane in Europe highlights the importance of agility and responsiveness in the pharmaceutical industry. As trials become more complex, the need for reliable partners like CSI will only grow. Their ability to deliver under pressure is a testament to their commitment to supporting clinical research. For more information on how to ensure timely supply in your clinical trials, consider exploring additional resources.

Your Global Partner in Clinical Trial Supply At Clinical Services International (CSI), we do more than source medicines, we ensure your trial stays on track. With a fully scientific team, global reach and direct access to all major manufacturers, we simplify the complex world of clinical supply. From early planning to last-mile delivery, CSI supports over 1,000 studies across 60+ countries. We minimize delays, reduce risk and accelerate patient outcomes. Watch how CSI brings precision and reliability to every study: Need a partner that delivers more than just product? Reach out to CSI's project management team.

CSI is proud to drive progress and celebrate the power of diversity. Our team is as global as the studies we support. Representing a multitude of cultures, we speak 10+ different languages, enabling us to operate seamlessly across borders and deliver excellence to clients worldwide.

In an industry where both timelines and budgets are under constant pressure, clinical trial sponsors and CROs are often forced to balance the two most critical resources: time and money. At Clinical Services International (CSI), we work with clients around the world navigating this challenge. And whilst cost control is understandably top of mind, it is often time, not price, that defines success. Price Matters… But Isn’t Everything Sponsors and CROs are understandably price-sensitive when sourcing comparator drugs. Clinical trials are expensive, and sourcing branded, high-value medications can account for a significant portion of the supply budget.  Naturally, clients want to: Compare quotes Secure the best unit cost Avoid excess supply or wastage Keep procurement aligned with financial forecasts CSI supports cost-effective sourcing through direct manufacturer relationships, batch management and optimized packaging and labelling and logistics strategies. However, the cheapest option isn’t always the best option, especially when it puts the trial timeline at risk. Speed and Reliability Are Strategic Assets Reliable access and timely delivery are non-negotiable when you're managing a Phase II/III trial across multiple regions. Here’s why time often trumps cost in practice: Many trials require synchronized dosing schedules or enrolment windows. Late delivery of comparators can compromise protocol adherence and data integrity. Shipping into high-risk or regulated markets (eg LATAM, APAC) demands expert navigation of import/export laws and local registration; tasks that require time and proactive planning. Some comparator drugs have tight expiry windows. A lower price per unit is irrelevant if the product expires before use due to customs or shipping delays. Timely access to the right batch-specific documentation (eg CoA) is critical. Delays in obtaining these can hold up site approvals.   The Hidden Cost of Delays Starting a trial even a few weeks late can have a domino effect: Recruitment timelines shift Site engagement weakens Contracts require renegotiation Funding and regulatory commitments are jeopardized Overall program costs increase In global trials, a delay in comparator delivery to just one country can slow activation for all sites, triggering a cascade of missed milestones, budget overruns and sponsor   dissatisfaction. In these scenarios, the financial cost of delay often far exceeds the savings from a lower-cost comparator source. CSI’s Approach: Balancing Time and Cost without Compromise Over the past 25 years, CSI has seen time and again that clients are willing to invest more in sourcing when a study start is imminent, expiry dates are tight and shelf-life is critical, or when the drug is allocated, restricted or in shortage. In these cases, speed, reliability, and documentation compliance are what make the difference, not just price per unit. At CSI, we don’t force clients to choose between cost and speed. Here’s how: CSI’s Global sourcing network  gives us flexibility to source comparators quickly from multiple regions Direct manufacturer access  ensures product authenticity and documentation Regulatory expertise  speeds up customs and compliance Local depot presence  in over 60 countries reduces last-mile delivery timelines Smart forecasting  minimizes waste while ensuring ongoing supply We work closely with sponsors to assess the cost of delay vs. cost of supply, so decisions are made with both budget and timeline impact in mind.   Conclusion:  Yes, price matters. But starting your trial on time, delivering drug to site reliably, and maintaining compliance across borders often outweighs a marginal cost saving. At CSI, we believe the real value lies in speed, reliability, and peace of mind. Because in clinical research, losing time often costs more than money. Get in touch with CSI to learn how we balance speed, cost, and compliance to keep your trial moving forward on time and on budget.

ASCO 2025 Signals a New Chapter in Myelofibrosis Care The 2025 ASCO Annual Meeting delivered early visibility into where the myelofibrosis (MF) pipeline is headed. For Clinical Services International (CSI), a trusted sourcing partner for global oncology trials, this is a scientific milestone. What’s New in MF and Why It Matters JAK inhibitors remain foundational, with ruxolitinib holding strong as a first-line option. However, ASCO 2025 spotlighted pacritinib (Vonjo) and momelotinib (Ojjaara) are two agents showing strong performance in thrombocytopenic and anaemic populations, respectively. Their positive Phase 3 and real-world data could accelerate new clinical trial activity as early as Q3 2025. Also drawing attention: pegylated interferons, especially ropeginterferon alfa-2b, which are gaining traction due to durable molecular responses in younger, mutation-positive patients. Their resurgence signals a diversification of treatment strategies, especially for front-line haematology studies. CSI has delivered global Phase III registration studies with ruxolitinib and we are ready to do the same with pacritinib (Vonjo) and momelotinib (Ojjaara). Why CSI Is Watching Closely 1. Demand Forecasting in Real Time CSI is already preparing for demand in pacritinib, momelotinib and ropeginterferon. All three have limited commercial inventory and narrow sourcing channels, making early action essential. Sponsors with short timelines will need partners who are informed and ready. 2. Strategic Advantage Through Vigilance By tracking the clinical conversation in real time, CSI positions itself as a highly reliable and informed sourcing partner. Being proactive, rather than reactive, reinforces our value to sponsors navigating fast-changing protocols and regulatory requirements. 3. Opportunity for Thought Leadership CSI are committed to forward-looking supply planning, particularly in high-complexity areas like hematologic oncology. CSI is tracking the latest data, positioning us as the low-risk sourcing partner for new trials. Bottom Line   CSI’s ability to connect the dots between clinical data and commercial drug supply is what will continue to set us apart in a rapidly evolving clinical trial supply space. References: "ASCO 2025 Delivers Insight into Future of Myelofibrosis Care." Pharmacy Times , 6 June 2025, https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/asco-2025-delivers-insight-into-future-of-myelofibrosis-care .