Frequently Asked Questions

Some important questions to ask and obtain answers from the research staff conducting clinical trials are:

• Why is this research being done?
• How does it compare with usual treatment for my condition?
• What will happen to me during the clinical trial?
• Is there a chance that I may receive a placebo (inactive substance)?
• What tests or procedures are required to participate in the clinical trial?
• Which of the study tests/procedures does the study pay for and what will my insurance or I be expected to pay for?
• How often will I receive treatment and where will the treatment be provided?
• What are the risks and the benefits of participating in the trial versus the usual medical care for my condition?
• What are the alternative treatments available to me?
• Has the drug or device been tested in other human volunteers and what were the results of those tests?
• What are the side effects I can expect to experience?
• If I experience a side effect as a result of the study treatment, who is responsible to pay for treatment?
• What is the telephone number and individual to contact in case I require immediate medical attention?

Information to all of these questions is contained in the human subject's consent form you will receive for each clinical trial. However, it is important that you ask these questions and receive the information you need to make an informed decision.

Also available to you is the National library of Medicine's clinical trial web site at www.clinicaltrials.gov. This web site lists more than 4,000 trials available in locations across the United States and contains information you may find helpful about the clinical trial process in general.