[Conflicts of interest and clinical drug trials -- impact of the pharmaceutical industry and the impingement on the integrity of medical science].

Numerous studies have addressed the subject of the extent and consequences of financial ties between pharmaceutical companies, academic institutions and clinical researchers. Based on these reports, guidelines for the management of conflicts of interest have been developed which give priority to the patients' welfare on all levels of interaction between doctors and industrial sponsors. The declaration of potential conflicts of interest and strict adherence to guidelines are mandatory to retain the physicians' credibility, reputation, and professional autonomy. Enhanced transparency in the conduct and analysis of clinical trials should be regarded as a valuable tool to uncover and avoid undue influence on clinical trials and derived prescription recommendations.