There are many reasons why you would be interested
in participating in a clinical research program:
- Current standard therapies are not optimal
COPD treatments.
- Participation could make a difference in your
life, and potentially, the life of other COPD
patients.
- It gives hope for living better and longer with
COPD, and possibly a cure.
- Medical care is free.
- There are monetary incentives.
Although there are several good reasons as to why
you would want to participate in clinical research
trials, there are some things you should know before
you sign up.
- There can be physical side effects produced by
the treatment.
- The demands of the study may be too strenuous
for your ability
- The randomization of placebo treatments may
cause you to not receive the medical treatment
being tested. (Placebos are substances used in
clinical trials that have no pharmacological
efect. They are distributed to the control group
in order to be able to measure the overall
effectiveness of the drug.)
The enrolling site will provide you with information
on the study. Do not feel pressured to make a decision
right away about participating. The people at the site
should be friendly and happy to answer all of your
questions. Here are some suggestions:
- Who is eligible to participate in the clinical
trial?
- Who sponsors the clinical trial?
- Is there the possibility I will receive a placebo?
- What are the side effects and adverse reations?
And what should I do if I think I am
experiencing a side effect of the medication?
- What happens during the clinical trial?What are the benefi ts and risks associated with
this study?
- Can I leave a clinical trial before it has
completed?
- What would participating involve for me?
- Will I get paid for participating in the study?
- What should I do if I have medical problems
after hours, or over the weekend?
- What about the cost? Will my insurance cover
it?
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