Should I Join a Trial?

 As a volunteer in a clinical trial, you help in the development of medical therapies — therapies that may offer better treatments and even cures for life-threatening and chronic diseases.
 People volunteer to participate in a clinical trial for a number of reasons. You may get involved in a trial because you simply want to help in the advancement of science. Or you may be suffering from a disease for which a good treatment does not exist presently. You may join a clinical trial hoping to get improved medical care. Or you may not have health insurance, and clinical trials are a way to get study-related medical care.
 Whatever reason you choose, you may have questions about clinical trials and drug research. This summary attempts to answer some of your questions. You should also ask your physician and the staff of the Drug Study Institute any questions before you volunteer.
 It's important that you make an informed choice about volunteering for a clinical trial.