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Clinical Trials Division
Clinical trials research and your health
What are clinical trials?
Clinical trials are scientific studies which require the participation of volunteer patients.
Before any new medicine or medical device is placed on the market, it must be tested
through clinical trials. Results are then reviewed to determine if the drug, practice or
medical device should be made available to the public.
Why are clinical trials important?
Clinical trials are a vital part of scientific research that play an important role in the
research and evaluation of new medicines and treatments. They bring medical research one
step closer to effective treatments and cures.
What are the potential benefits of enrolling in a clinical trial?
Potential benefits vary according to each trial, and no guarantee can be given of any
benefit, but there are some common advantages to being part of a clinical trial.
- you will learn more detailed information about your condition
- you contribute to medical research in finding new treatments and cures
Are there any risks ?
There is no medical procedure that is without some risk, discomfort or inconvenience. But
these are minimized for each clinical trial by being designed with care and thoroughly
reviewed by professionals and lay people before the trial can proceed.
Who is eligible for a clinical trial?
There are set criteria for entry into each clinical trial. Your physician will review your
history and the current clinical trials to see if you meet these criteria. Even if you
meet the selection criteria, the decision to enter a clinical trial is entirely up to you.
What is informed consent?
There are no surprises in a clinical trial. From the beginning, your physician and
research nurse provide you with information about the study and will continue to give you
updated information during the study.
You will be given a consent form that outlines the study. It is important to read it
carefully and understand the potential risks and benefits before you sign. You decide if
participating is the right thing for you. To protect your privacy, your name and personal
information is kept confidential. You can also withdraw from the study at any time.
What questions should I ask?
Before you enroll in a clinical trial, your physician will fully explain the study to you.
Don't be afraid to ask questions and learn about your options. Some examples of questions
you may wish to ask include:
- What is the purpose of the study?
- What do I have to do?
- How long is the study?
- What tests are involved?
- What are the other choices for treatment if I don't enter the study?
- What side effects might there be?
Clinical trials make a difference in everyone's lives. By participating now, you
not only receive the benefits outlined above, you are helping other patients in
the future. Ask your physician how you can become involved in a clinical trial.
For more information on research and clinical trial potential, or questions about
participation in a clinical trial, contact:
Jacquelyn Legere
Research Services
Atlantic Health Sciences Corporation
5DN Saint John Regional Hospital
Saint John New Brunswick E2L 4L2
Tel: 506-648-6781
Fax: 506-648-6779
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