Clinical trials have a reputation problem. Despite being the backbone of modern medicine, many potential participants stay away due to myths. Here are the five most common, and the truth behind each.
Myth 1: “I Will Be a Guinea Pig”
Truth: Every study is reviewed and approved by an Institutional Review Board (IRB) before a single participant is enrolled. You will be fully informed of all known risks before agreeing to participate. You are protected by layers of federal regulation.
Myth 2: “I Might Get a Placebo and Get No Real Treatment”
Truth: Many trials compare a new treatment to the current standard of care, not a placebo. Even if your trial includes a placebo arm, you will never be denied treatment that you urgently need. The research team will always disclose whether a placebo is part of the study design.
Myth 3: “Clinical Trials Are Only for People Out of Options”
Truth: Trials need volunteers at all stages of their condition. Many studies enroll patients who are managing their condition reasonably well. Early-phase trials actively seek patients whose disease is not at an advanced stage.
Myth 4: “It Is a Huge Time Commitment”
Truth: Many studies require only a handful of visits over several months. At NuLine, many of our trials involve 5 to 14 visits with compensation for your time and travel provided at each visit.
Myth 5: “Once I Join, I Cannot Leave”
Truth: You may withdraw from any clinical trial at any time, for any reason, with absolutely no penalty or effect on your future medical care.
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Have questions? Contact our team at NuLine, we are happy to walk you through what participation looks like.