Ethical issues in pharmacoepidemiological research in Belgium

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Abstract
Purpose To illustrate the ethical issues faced in pharmacoepidemiological research in Belgium. Methods The experience with three studies is described. The studies concern the use of drugs for euthanasia in medical practice, cytomegalovirus infection in single solid organ transplants and a comparison of benzodiazepine use in the general population and in acute self‐poisoning. Results With some creativity, it was possible to meet the requirements of the ethics committees and the law on computer databases, e.g. by bringing data validation closer to the data entry process, by assuring anonymity in mailing procedures, or by deleting identification labels as soon as they are no longer necessary. Conclusions The existing juridical vacuum has not really impeded pharmacoepidemiological research. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.