These are some of the questions you can ask before deciding whether to participate in a trial. Your doctor or nurse will probably be able to answer most of them.

General questions:

  • What is the name of the trial?
  • What is the point of the trial and how is it going to help people?
  • Why have I been invited to enroll?
  • What are the benefits of the trial for me?
  • How long is it expected to last?
  • Can I drop out of the trial at any time? (The answer should always be yes.)
  • How much time will go by before the results of the trial are known?
  • Will I be informed of the results?

Practical issues:

  • How much of my time will be needed?
  • Will I have to take additional time off work?
  • Will I need extra help from family and friends?
  • Will my travel expenses to and from the trial center be covered? If so, how can I request reimbursement?
  • What additional tests or appointments will I have?
  • Will I have to pick the drug up at the hospital, will it be sent to me by mail, or am I going to get it through my GP?
  • Will I have to fill out questionnaires or keep a journal?
  • What are the possible side effects of the treatment?
  • How might it affect me physically and emotionally?
  • Who can I contact if I have a problem? Will there be someone available 24 hours a day?