How do I choose which clinical trial to take part in?
There are many things to think about when choosing a clinical trial. You should think about the risks and benefits, and if you can fully take part in the study. For example:
- Can you go to all the study visits? Most trials have several visits over weeks, months, or even years. Some visits can last a whole day. You may need to take time off work.
- Will you need to travel? You might have to travel for some or all the visits if there’s no study site near you. If someone needs to come with you, can they take time off work? Ask if the study will pay for travel costs for you and your helper.
- How much risk are you okay with? Medicines in Phase 1 or Phase 1/2 trials may not have been tested in people before. These trials can be riskier. The study team will check on you often, which may mean more visits or keeping a diary about how you feel.
- Are you okay with taking a placebo? In Phase 2 and 3 trials, some people may get a placebo instead of the real medicine. A placebo looks like the real medicine but doesn’t have any active ingredients. You won’t know which one you’re getting until the study ends.
- Is there an open-label extension? Some Phase 2 and 3 trials let you keep taking the real medicine after the main part of the study ends. If you were on a placebo, this gives you the chance to try the real medicine.
Learn more about all the questions you should ask during the screening process and informed consent.