Why Participate

Participating in a clinical trial is a personal decision after reviewing the benefits and risks.  While weighing the options, consider the following:

• Participant will gain access to potentially new research medications or treatments.
• The medical care for the study is without cost to the participant and often there is payment for travel and time.  The participant’s vital signs, symptoms and overall health are monitored by the physician investigators while the participant is in the trial.
• By participating in research, the participant will be helping to find answers to health questions which may contribute to treatment advances.

The decision about whether or not to participate should be made after you feel that you have all of the information needed to make an informed choice.   It is important to make sure you have a clear understanding of the trial before you make your decision, including the risks and inconveniences, such as,

• You might get a placebo instead of the test drug. This may be for part of the trial or for the complete trial.  As a result, your condition may worsen.
• You may be exposed to harmful side effects. Although many volunteers experience only minor side effects or none at all, serious side effects can occur.
• The new treatment might not work or your current treatment may be better.
• Taking part in a trial is a responsibility and requires adherence to the protocol.  This may be inconvenient. This can include many visits, uncomfortable procedures and inconvenient side effects or work at home- like keeping a journal.