I’ve been interested in clinical research trials for a while now.
You may remember that my grandmother — who has Alzheimer’s disease — took part in a medical trial for the Excelon patch, a new delivery method for an Alzheimer’s drug. In oral form, the medication often causes severe gastrointestinal side effects; in patch form, the side effects are dramatically decreased. Although that particular medication didn’t benefit my grandmother much, her participation in the trial will help make the medication available for Alzheimer’s patients all over.
But I was curious about research trials before that. Back home in New Jersey, several medical testing groups used to advertise various studies on the radio. It’s been in the back of my head for a long time. Now that I live within driving distance of a research/teaching hospital, I’ve been looking at their extensive list of planned studies.
Reasons to participate in a clinical research trial:
- I’d be helping advance medical knowledge. That in itself is pretty cool! A study I participate in today could help people in the future.
- The curiosity factor. I’m not any sort of medical professional or scientist, and this would give me an inside look at cutting edge research.
- Many study participants are compensated for their time. As long as it covers the cost of gas, I’m happy.
- If I happen upon a study that deals with a particular condition I suffer from (allergies, depression, etc) then I may actually find a new treatment that works.
Reasons to not participate in a clinical research trial:
- Scheduling. A lot of the studies I heard advertised ask for an overnight stay — or several nights stay. I wouldn’t have anyone to care for the dogs if I was away for more than one night.
- Just for the money. I’m not gonna get rich being a lab rat.
- As a replacement for regular health care. Many of the research studies I’ve looked at include related care — but that’s no replacement for having a regular doctor and health care.