Participating in Medical Research

Before the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) can approve an investigational medicine, it must be shown to be both safe and effective. Clinical research studies are part of the process that makes this possible. These studies, which are designed and monitored, are divided into phases to gather specific information in a variety of populations.

Researchers are required to follow strict federal regulations and ethical guidelines, which help ensure the safety of study participants. Your health will be monitored throughout the duration of the study. However, you are encouraged to contact your study doctor or the research team anytime you have questions or concerns about your health or the research study. You may stop participating in the research study at any time.

Here are some questions you may want to ask your doctor or research team:

• What is the purpose of this research study?
• Why do researchers believe this study medicine may be effective?
• Has this study medicine been tested before?
• As a participant, what will I have to do?
• How long will the study last?
• What are the potential risks, benefits and side effects of this study medicine?
• Will this study medication affect my daily life?
• Will I need follow-up care after the research study is finished?
• Will I find out the results of the research study?
• Will the research staff coordinate care with my primary care doctor?

Complete our online prescreening questionnaire to see if you meet other requirements for one of these studies.

To view a map of all participating sites, CLICK HERE.