Benefits & Risks of Clinical Research Trials at Alexian Brothers Neurosciences Institute

What are the possible benefits and risks of participating in a clinical trial?

Benefits:

• Gain access to new research treatments before they are widely available
• Help others by contributing to medical research
• Possible compensation for participation
• A patient participating in a Clinical Trial will benefit from the close monitoring of their medical status and any underlining medical condition.

Risks:

• The treatment may not be effective for the participant
• There may be unpleasant, serious or even life-threatening side effects to experimental treatment
• Participation in the trial may be demanding and time consuming

How is the safety of the participant protected?

The ethical and legal codes that govern medical practice also apply to clinical trials. In addition, most clinical research is federally regulated with built-in safeguards to protect the participants.

Ask these key questions before participating in a clinical trial:

0. What is the purpose of the study?
0. Why do researchers believe the experimental treatment being tested may be effective? Has it been tested before?
0. What kinds of tests and experimental treatments are involved?
0. How do the possible risks, side effects, and benefits in the study compare with my current treatment?
0. How long is the study going to last and what will I be asked to do as a participant?
0. Will I receive any follow-up care after the study has ended?
0. How will I know the experimental treatment is working? Will results of the trials be provided to me?
0. Who will be in charge of my care?

If you are interested in participating in a Clinical Trial, please call 847-593-8553 or email us.

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