Clinical Triais—What Patients Should Know (NAPSA)—Advances in medi- cine, whieh oceur almost daily, are largely made possible by clinical trials. Thetrials are controlled studies that test and evaluate new drugs and medical treatments. These trials are not just for the seriously ill; people whe are interested in contributing to the advancement ofscience can also participate. The system works like this: The US. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) evaluates applications from pharmaceutical companies and government agencies seeking approval for new drugs and treatments. To demonstrate the safety and efficacy of the drugs and treatments, companies conduct clinical trials using volunteers who have either been recommended for studies by their physicians or have sought them on their own because other treatments have proven ineffective. “Patients should be informed of the risks and benefits involved im the trial before it begins,” saic Many patients who participate in triais have found them by ask- ing their doctor or by doing research on the internet. will be involved. * Consult with the coordinator abeut potential side effects and how these might affect your daily life. Peter 4. Plantes, M.D. “Because * Inquire about long-term follow up care—-is it provided and who will be responsible for any associated costs? “What is important,” stressed unknown, patients are expected to formed decision.” There are various sources to the trials involve treatments for whichthe potential side effects are he monitored very carefully for the duration of the study.” Whether you are sick or healthy, there are ways to determine if entering a clinical trial is right for you. LaurusHealth.com, a consumer health information Website, offers thesetips: * Talk with your physician to determine if you are a goodeandidate for the trial. Find out in advance how long the trial is expected tolast. * Ask the trial coordinator what kind of tests and treatments Dr. Plantes, “is to make an in- locate where clinical trials are being conducted. Many patients who participate in trials have found them by asking their physician or by doing research on the Internet. Links to information about clinical trials that are being conducted across the nation can be found at www.LaurusHealth.com. LaurusHeaith.com was created im association with leading hospi- tals and physicians across the nation to help consumers make more informed choices about their heaith.
