Clinical trials are in-human studies aimed at gathering a variety of information about different aspects of disease and health conditions. Many clinical trials are designed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of experimental medications or other therapeutic interventions before they are submitted to a regulatory agency for potential approval. Learn more about clinical trials, the different types, how they work, and how you can become involved at the links below.
BioNews is partnering with clinical trial organizations to help get the word out about opportunities to participate in studies related to our rare and chronic disease patient communities. If you’re interested in learning more, click the link below.
The different types of clinical trials can vary by objective, design, and number of participants, as well as other factors. They can be categorized by purpose, which vary in both design and goals, depending on what researchers are trying to find out. Clinical trials also can be broken down by phases, ranging from preclinical to post-marketing, depending on what stage of the research process a treatment or intervention is in at a given time.
Clinical trials are usually the culmination of several years spent developing new therapies and approaches in research laboratories. Researchers must create a plan, called a protocol, that details how they will explore the effects of their proposed intervention in a human population, including the length of the trial, eligibility requirements, any necessary tests and procedures, and the specific outcomes to be measured.
Thanks to advances in digital technology and telemedicine, there are now more options for how — and where — clinical trials are conducted. Remote clinical trials take place in a virtual environment with participants joining by using mobile phones, computers, or other devices, while traditional clinical trials take place in person at a research site. A hybrid approach combines remote and in-person aspects.
Looking for some quick answers to your questions on clinical trials? Check out our FAQs page for more information on clinical trials, how they work, their risks and benefits, and factors to consider before deciding to participate in clinical trials.
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