The process that brings a new drug from the research laboratory to the marketplace is a long and careful one. Long, because it takes years to complete all the laboratory, animal and human tests; careful, because all those involved in bringing it to market must follow strict government regulations regarding the drug's safety and how well it works.
One of the most important steps in the development process is the clinical trial, which is a study with people like you who volunteer to receive the drug and be observed for its effects. It is through these trials that investigational new drugs are tested to determine whether they can benefit human beings. But before this can happen, people must volunteer and participate - a choice that may benefit not only the individual but many, many others as well.
Whether or not a clinical trial is right for you depends on a number of factors, including your medical condition. Your physician will discuss these factors with you and provide all of the information available on the drug and the trial itself.
Still, you may have questions. Participation in a clinical trial can be a great undertaking, and there are no guarantees that the drug will work. This page, however, will help you understand the benefits and risks of participation, and give you some idea of what to expect if you decide to participate.
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