The sponsors of the pharmaceutical industry are encouraged to discuss with CDE throughout the R&D process. CDE provides free scientific advices according to the specific need of each individual sponsor. The sponsor may apply for the consultation via the internet or by phone (886-2-23224567 ext 888). After receiving the necessary information, CDE will provide the response via written opinions (e-mail, fax or letters), telephone communication or face-to-face meetings within one month. For consultations regarding pre-IND issues, they are recommended to provide pre-clinical information and clinical trial synopsis before pre-IND meetings would be held .