Understanding the Ins and Outs of Clinical Trials

We hear a lot in the news these days about clinical trials, but few of us know much about what is involved with a clinical trial. Who participates? What happens during the trial? Who pays for them? Is participating in a clinical trial safe?

 
Clinical trials are generally sponsored, or paid for, by a government agency, organization or pharmaceutical company. The goal of most clinical trials is to test new drugs and medications on humans to ensure that they are safe and effective.
 
While it sounds like this could be risky for participants, clinical trials are highly regulated. In many cases drugs that make it to the clinical trial phase have already been researched and have shown potential as an economic and effective treatment. The safety of participants is top priority. The government, a team of medical professionals and a community group closely monitor each trial. If new drugs are administered patients are monitored the entire time and doses start small.
 
The specifics of what happens during a clinical trial vary. Some participants may be treated by their regular doctor in the same office they normally go to. Others may need to be seen at a hospital or other facility. The frequency of appointments, as well as the time and travel necessary, will all be explained up front so participants know what to expect.
 
So, who would want to participate in a clinical trial? Some people are ill and are hoping to have access to the latest treatments and medical experts. Other people do it simply to help the greater good and the advancement of research. Believe it or not, completely healthy people are also needed for clinical trials. Their reactions and recovery times are useful comparisons to those who are ill.
 
While clinical trials test new medications, they often also involve a control group that is used as a comparison. The control group may receive an existing medication or even a placebo. So while some people take part hoping to receive a new medication or treatment, this is not guaranteed.
 
Participation in a clinical trial can be a simple yet rewarding process. Researchers give people as much information as possible up front. This way they can make an informed decision as to whether or not a clinical trial is right for them.