Risks and benefits of being treated in a trial

Clinical trials are carefully designed to minimise the risks and maximise the benefits to all the people who take part, regardless of which treatment they get.

When you take part in a trial you will be monitored carefully during and after the study. You will have regular tests and you may be asked some extra questions about how you are feeling. Sometimes this means going to your hospital or GP more often than you would normally, so bear this in mind before you agree to take part, as attending the hospital can be tiring and may cost you more money for travel. Ask how many extra visits will be needed and consider how convenient this will be for you.

The benefit to you of this extra attention is that any changes in your health – whether or not they are related to the treatment you are having – are frequently picked up and acted upon earlier than if you were not in a trial.