The misinformation surrounding clinical trials goes back decades and has a major impact on people’s willingness to volunteer. Many are hesitant to even consider a clinical trial because they don’t fully understand the process. Keep in mind, without clinical trials there would be no medical advancements and the medications we have available to us today would not exist. Keep reading as we debunk 5 of the most common clinical trial myths.
Myth 1: Clinical trial participants are just human guinea pigs
We’d thought it’d be fitting to start with the top contender for clinical trial myths. This statement insinuates that a patient’s participation would initially be the first time the treatment is being tested, and that researchers ultimately just hope for the best possible outcome. This could not be farther from the truth! There is a considerable number of strict guidelines set in place both internally and through the FDA to ensure patient safety including adhering to and completing training for Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines.
Myth 2: Clinical trials are expensive, and my insurance will not cover it.
Most clinical trials are offered with no out-of-pocket expense, and no insurance is required. Many even offer compensation for study-related time and travel expenses.
Myth 3: I will get a placebo.
Although placebos can help researchers learn which treatment option works better, the actual use of them depends on several factors. Placebos are commonly used when there is no existing treatment for the condition. If there is a possibility of a placebo being used, the patient WILL be informed of it when they’re signing their Informed Consent Forms.
Myth 4: Clinical trials are only a last resort.
This myth may have come about due to people considering clinical studies when they’ve already exhausted all other options. Clinical trials help to find new treatments for people with conditions at various stages. Many clinical trials are even designed to help stop a condition before it gets worse, or to help lessen side effects to medications a patient is already taking. Clinical trials are always an option, and whether a participant uses it as a last resort is totally up to them.
Myth 5: If I decide to volunteer for a clinical trial, I won’t be able to change my mind.
The key word here is volunteer. Your participation in a clinical research trial is completely voluntary, and you have the option to leave the trial at any time.
The bottom line is – don’t believe everything you hear. We recommend you always do your own research before deciding on whether clinical trials are a good option for you. Know all your options as well as the benefits of risks of the trial you are considering.
Ready to learn more about participating in a trial? CLICK HERE and enter your zip code to see what studies are enrolling near you.
