Are Clinical Trials Safe?
Trial Regulation
Before a trial starts, it goes through strict reviews by ethics committees and regulatory agencies (like the FDA) to make sure the study is scientifically sound and participants receive all protections possible. Researchers are required to monitor safety throughout the study. No matter what, participants can leave at any time.
That said, because trials often involve experimental treatments, there can be unknown side effects, or the treatment might not work. Phase 1 trials carry the most risk, since they're the first time a drug is tested in humans. Later phases tend to be safer, since more is already known.
View Trials Past Phase 1Informed Consent
If you're thinking about joining a trial, you'll be given an "informed consent" form that clearly lays out the risks, benefits, and what to expect. You can ask questions and take time to decide. Participating in a trial is 100% up to you!