Questions to Ask about Clinical Trials

When discussing possible participation in a clinical trial, it is important to have all the information you need to make a decision. Here are some questions you, or your physician, might want to ask the clinical trial’s sponsor or principle investigator.

• What is the purpose of the study?
• What will happen during the study?
• How many people will participate?
• Who is funding this study?
• Where is this study being done?
• How long will I be in the study?
• What are the potential risks of joining this clinical trial?
• What is the disease or condition for which the drug is being studied?
• Can you recommend any peer-reviewed literature to read that contains data/information known about the drug so far?
• Will I get a placebo?
• How do the tests and treatments in this study compare to those in standard care?
• How often do I need to come in for treatment and testing?
• Will it cost me anything to be in this study?
• What medical expenses will be paid by the clinical trial?
• Will my insurance cover the remaining costs or will I need to pay for them myself?
• Will I be paid for participating?
• What happens when the study ends? Is there long-term follow-up care?
• If the treatment is working for me, can I continue to get it after the study ends?
• What happens if I am harmed somehow in the study?
• Is medical care provided and paid for by the study?
• How will my personal information be protected in this study?
• Can I stop my participation in the study at any time for any reason?