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    Taking part in clinical trials

    With any decision you make you need to make an informed decision based on the evidence available to you.
    Reasons for taking part in trials

    • Want to take a more active role in their health care
    • Because study participants usually get regular and careful medical attention some health problems may be found earlier
    • Some people feel good about helping medical knowledge advance.

    Questions you may have before you make your decision:
    You might find it helpful to ask the person who has asked you to take part in the trial (this might be your doctor or nurse) some questions about it.

    • What is the point of the trial?
    • How will it help people?
    • Who is taking part in it?
    • If the trial is testing a drug, how often must I take it, when and for how long?
    • Do you know anything about the potential side effects, risks or benefits?
    • How will the trial affect my daily life?
    • How often will I have to visit the clinic?
    • What will happen at these visits? Will I have extra tests?
    • What other medications can I take when I am taking part in this trial?
    • What happens if my condition gets worse?
    • How long will the trial last?
    • Will I be told the results of the trial when it ends?
    • Who is funding the trial?
    • Will my travel expenses be paid to take part?
    • Is there anything I am not allowed to do?
    • While I am taking part in the trial who can I talk to if I have any more questions?