What are the potential health risks of participating in a clinical trial?

While clinical trials may offer benefits for patients, such as access to new treatments and contributing to medical advancements, there are risks involved with participating in clinical research. Patients may experience side effects, ranging from mild discomfort to more serious complications, depending on the treatment being studied. Additional procedures, like blood tests, imaging, biopsies, or hospital stays, may be required, which can come with their own risks. Further, some treatments being tested in clinical trials may be less effective than current standard options or may have unforeseen long-term effects.

How can risks be minimized and monitored?

Clinical trials follow strict ethical and safety guidelines to protect participants. Several measures are in place to reduce risks. These may include:

• Institutional Review Boards (IRBs): Institutional Review Boards (IRBs): IRBs review and approve all clinical trials to ensure they are ethical, scientifically valid, and that participant risks are minimized. They also monitor trials for any concerns that emerge regarding adherence, including whether researchers follow the approved protocol, obtain proper informed consent, and ensure participant compliance with study requirements such as medication usage and follow-up visits. Adherence is critical for maintaining data integrity, participant safety, and regulatory compliance throughout the trial.
• Data and Safety Monitoring Boards (DSMBs): These independent committees continuously review trial data to assess safety and effectiveness. If significant risks emerge, the DSMB can recommend changes or even stop the trial.
• Medical Monitoring: Researchers and healthcare providers closely track participants' health throughout the study, adjusting treatment plans as needed to ensure safety.

How can informed consent help me understand risks?

Before enrolling in a clinical trial, participants go through an informed consent process, which ensures they fully understand the study’s purpose, procedures, potential risks, and benefits. The informed consent document explains:

• The treatment or intervention being studied
• Possible side effects and risks of participation
• Any additional procedures or hospital visits required
• How participation may impact daily life
• The right to withdraw from the study at any time

By reviewing this document and discussing concerns with the research team, patients can make an informed decision about participation.

Is a clinical trial right for me?
Every trial has specific eligibility criteria. Speak with your doctor and the clinical study team to determine if joining aligns with your health needs and lifestyle. Our Guide can help you ask important questions before signing up. Your decision to join is entirely voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time.

How can I find a clinical trial near me?

The Wellness League's Search Tool is a free resource that can be used to find clinical trials actively recruiting in your community. Simply search by a condition and then the type of study. Check out our blog on how to use the Tool. Scroll to the bottom of the page to watch our how-to video or download the printable guide.