About Clinical Studies

Clinical research studies are done to test investigational medications for diseases and conditions. Studies help determine if investigational medications are safe to use and work to improve the health of people. Before any medication can be approved and made available to the general public, it has to go through several phases of clinical research.

Why do people participate in studies?

People participate in clinical research studies for a variety of reasons. Some volunteers may participate in studies because they want to learn more about their disease. Others volunteer to participate because they want to help researchers learn more about a disease so that it may help them and others in the future.

Are clinical studies safe?

Clinical research studies follow a specific set of standards and are closely regulated to help protect the safety of all participants. Safety precautions are put in place to protect people who participate in clinical research. In addition, studies follow a written plan called a protocol. The protocol is designed to make sure all study procedures are conducted correctly and safely.

What if I have questions during the study?

You can ask questions of the study doctor and staff at any point before, during, and after the study. Before agreeing to participate, please make sure that you understand the responsibilities of study participants. If you have any concerns about the study, you should feel comfortable discussing them with the study doctor and staff at any time.

Can I leave the study once it has started?

Study participation is completely voluntary, and you can end your participation at any time, for any reason. If you think you would like to stop participating in the study, talk to the study doctor. If you decide you should leave the study early, the study doctor may ask that you return to the study site for a final visit, but there will be no negative impact on the care you receive.

Can I see other doctors during the study?

You can visit any doctor to meet your needs during the study. Please let the study doctor know if you will be seeing another doctor and if any medication is prescribed during the visit.