Synexus’ clinical trials activity in Hungary increased by 25% during the first half of 2010. The company’s Dedicated Research Centre has been operating in Hungary since 2006 and has become one of the company’s most successful CEE sites. The Budapest-based operation has been involved in more than 74 trials since being acquired by Synexus, and has randomized over 600 patients. Dr Erika Nemeth, Synexus’ country manager in Hungary, said the trend of more clinical trials being conducted in Hungary is set to continue: “The high standards of medical and research & development expertise in Hungary has resulted in high levels of participation in clinical trials and means that pharma and biotech companies remain keen to include Hungary as part of their global clinical trial programs.” The prevalence of chronic conditions including CVD and COPD among the Hungarian population, together with little preventative healthcare and healthcare education, means the treatment naïve population remains substantial and therefore attractive for clinical trials. Also, the pharmaceutical market in Hungary is set to increase significantly in the coming decade, encouraging the major players to establish a stronger and more proactive presence there before their new drugs come to market. Synexus CEO Michael Fort said the productivity of investigators, the attractive overhead costs and the world-renowned medical expertise and innovation in Hungary make it one of his company’s key areas for future development.