There are multiple checks to ensure prudence of the use of development stage drugs. First of all a physician has to be convinced that the development stage drug could benefit his patient. If that’s the case, the physician can prescribe it to his patient. After that health authorities must grant permission before the physician can start treating his patient. Health authorities only allow treatment with such a development stage drug if it is considered safe and if it concerns a patient with a serious or life threatening disease who has no registered medicinal treatment alternatives left.