A placebo would not be appropriate for a Phase III cancer treatment trial. So some of the patients would receive the new treatment, and others would receive the standard treatment. There's a lot to remember. It does sound pretty complicated, and yet you should make every effort to understand it. When you review the pros and cons of treatment with your doctor, consider taking a close family member or friend along for support and for help in asking questions, expressing concerns, and recording answers.
Some people even take a tape recorder along so they can listen to the conversation again later.
You should take this form home with you, read it carefully, and discuss it with your family, friends, and anyone else you chose, before you make your decision. Feel free to call the doctor or nurse from home if you think of more questions, or if there is something you don't understand. Keep asking questions until you feel you have enough information to make a sound decision. If you decide to participate in the trial, you will be asked to sign the consent form, indicating you understand what's written there and agree to participate. Be sure to keep a copy of the form so that you can refer back to it at any time.