What are clinical trials?

Clinical trials are scientific research studies designed to find better ways to treat or prevent diseases and to answer specific questions about vaccines, new therapies or new ways of using known treatments. Clinical trials (also called medical research and research studies) are used to determine whether new drugs or treatments are both safe and effective. Carefully conducted clinical trials are the fastest and safest way to find treatments that work in people.

Why participate in a clinical trial?

Participants in clinical trials can play a more active role in their own health care, gain access to new research treatments before they are widely available, and help others by contributing to medical research. Additionally many patients may have an interest in clinical research studies, close medical care and supervision as well as free medications.