What are clinical trials?

Clinical trials are medical research studies involving patients and human volunteers to determine the effectiveness and ascertain the safety of a new or existing treatment (e.g. drug, medical device, vaccine).

Importance of trials

The possible benefits of a new treatment would not be known unless it is tested in human volunteers. Hence both clinical trials and volunteer participation are of paramount importance to advance drug discovery and development.

Are clinical trials safe?

As with any medication which side effects are always a possibility, clinical trials do involve some form of risks. Yet, the safety and wellness of participants is our absolute top priority that your health condition is closely monitored. During the Informed Consent session we will go through all details with you from participation to termination if necessary.

Risks & Benefits of trials

Benefits: You may gain access to new treatments before they are widely available. You may have more interaction with doctors & research staff and have more frequent health check-ups as part of your study.

Risk: New treatment being tested may not work better, or as well as the standard treatment; it may also have unexpected side effects.

What to expect in a clinical trial?

Clinical trial requires inform consent before you begin. Investigator will explain the details of the trial including visit schedule and participant risk to you. Your questions and concerns will also be answered. You will be given a written consent with study information for signature to confirm you agree on voluntary participation in the study. You don’t need to pay for participating the trial. The consent is not a contract and you can drop out of the trial at any time without any penalty.

You will have screening visit and tests to confirm whether you are eligible to participate the trial. The answer depends on the eligibility criteria. The criteria vary from study to study and usually include the type and severity of a disease, age, medical history, current health status, etc. These criteria are strict for ensuring patient safety and data accuracy.

Eligible participants will be given specific instructions, visit schedule, assessment, and treatment in accordance with the study protocol. Your health will be closely monitored during the trial and necessary continued care will be provided after the trial is completed.