What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study conducted to assess if investigational drugs, medical devices, or treatment techniques are safe and work as expected in people.
Why are clinical trials important?
Clinical trials generate the evidence needed to determine whether new medical treatments are safe and effective. Without them, many of the medicines, vaccines, and tests we rely on today wouldn’t exist.
Who can take part in a clinical trial?
Each trial has eligibility rules based on age, health, and other factors. Some trials need people with certain conditions, others involve healthy volunteers.
What should I consider before joining a clinical trial?
You should know as much as possible about the clinical trial and feel comfortable asking the healthcare team questions about it, including the care expected during the trial, the costs involved, and any other details. Some of the answers to these questions will be available in the informed consent document.
Are research studies a legitimate option for medical care?
Clinical trials are an important part of medical research. While you may receive study-related care, trials are not the same as regular medical treatment.
What happens during a clinical trial?
This depends on the study, but typically you’ll go through a screening process, receive the treatment or placebo, attend follow-up visits, and have tests to monitor your health.
How long do clinical trials last?
Trials can last from a few weeks to several years, depending on the treatment being studied and the goals of the research.
What are side effects and adverse reactions?
Side effects are any undesired actions or effects of a drug or treatment. Experimental treatments must be evaluated for both immediate and long-term side effects.
Can I keep seeing my primary healthcare provider while I’m in a trial?
Most clinical trials provide short-term treatments related to a designated illness or condition, but do not provide extended or complete primary health care so you should continue to see your main healthcare provider.
Will my privacy be protected if I take part in clinical trials?
Yes. All medical records and research materials that identify you will be held confidential. Only individuals working on the study will have access to your personal information.
Can I leave a clinical trial after it starts?
Yes. Participation is voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time without affecting your standard medical care. If you do leave, you should let the research team know so that we may retrieve any remaining medication and do an exit visit if possible.
How do clinical trial results get used?
Results help doctors, regulators, and researchers decide whether a treatment should be approved, modified, or studied further.
What is informed consent and why does it matter?
Informed consent is the process of explaining the trial’s purpose, risks, benefits, and requirements before you decide whether to participate. It ensures your decision is voluntary and based on full understanding.
Do participants in UK clinical trials get paid?
Some trials reimburse volunteers for expenses like travel, meals, or time away from work. Others may offer a payment, but the amount paid differs among studies depending on factors like complexity or length of the trial, and this shouldn’t be your primary motivation for taking part.
Who pays for a clinical trial?
Clinical trials are sponsored or funded by a variety of organisations or individuals, including medical institutions, foundations, voluntary groups, and pharmaceutical companies. Trials can take place in various locations, such as hospitals, universities, or GPs’ offices.
How do I join a medical trial in the UK?
You can speak to your GP, check the UK Clinical Trials Gateway, or submit your details on our website to see if you meet the eligibility criteria.
What safeguards are in place for UK clinical trial volunteers?
All UK trials are reviewed by a Research Ethics Committee and regulated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) to ensure they meet high safety standards.
