yes, i mean does the government have to approve drug testing on humans first, even if the volunteers are willing to do it already at their own risk?

In the US, the drug must be approved by the FDA for human testing first (I believe).

The process for generics might be slightly different, because the original formulation is already FDA-approved. I hear ads on the radio for studies all the time. Generally they're looking for non-smokers between the ages of X and Y who are not on any other medications.

Have you seen the side effects of approved drugs?

With unapproved drugs, really all the government certification is saying is, "It probably won't kill you. Much."

I would make the assumption this link would of interest.

www.clinicaltrials.gov

'ClinicalTrials.gov is a registry of federally and privately supported clinical trials conducted in the United States and around the world. ClinicalTrials.gov gives you information about a trial's purpose, who may participate, locations, and phone numbers for more details. This information should be used in conjunction with advice from health care professionals. '