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CLINICAL TRIALSThe purpose of a clinical trial is to show the FDA that a newly developed medication is safe, and that it works for a specific condition or illness. The medication being tested is compared to either a placebo, or another medication that has been proven to work to compare the effect on the people who take it. The people participating in the clinical trial are given random assignments chosen by a computer. This means that those participating in the trial will have no idea of what they are taking. The main goal of the clinical trial is not the treatment of the participants, but they usually do receive better care than they would otherwise. The two main reasons for clinical trials are that doctors really do want to find better medications, and the doctors are paid for doing the research. The participants may get evaluated by a top specialist for the illness being researched, but they may also feel pressured to participate due to the doctor's financial reasons. An advantage to participating in a clinical trial is that you may receive free care from doctors that are experts on your condition. Many patients are helped simply by a careful reevaluation of their condition. Of course, there can also be drawbacks. Patients may have to change doctor's for the study, which can be hard when they have a good relationship with their current doctor. Another is that you may be referred to another treatment system at the end of the trial, disrupting your treatment again. If you are thinking about participating in a clinical trial, it is important that you ask your doctor lots of questions beforehand. Participation in these studies is not for everybody, but it is a way to get care from experts and get new medications. Remember, the goals of the study may not be the same as yours. It is important that you weigh the pros and cons carefully, and take your time before deciding.
BY RICHARD SUTPHEN
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 BipolarConnection
2001 - 2008
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