Home > Science > Clinical Trials > About Clinical Trials Clinical Trials About Clinical Trials The process that brings a new drug from the research laboratory to the marketplace is a long and careful one. Long, because it takes years to complete all the laboratory, animal and human tests; careful, because all those involved in bringing it to market must ensure patient safety and follow strict government regulations in evaluating the drug's safety and efficacy. One of the most important steps in the development process is the clinical trial, which is a study with people who volunteer to receive the drug and be observed for its effects. It is through these trials that investigational drugs are tested to determine whether they can benefit human beings. But before this can happen, people must volunteer and participate - a choice that may benefit not only the individual but many, many others as well. Whether or not you qualify for a clinical trial depends on a number of factors, including your medical condition. Your physician will discuss these factors with you and provide comprehensive information on the investigational drug and the trial itself. Still, you may have questions. Participation in a clinical trial can be a great undertaking, and there are no guarantees that the investigational drug will work. This page, however, will help you understand some of the potential benefits and risks of participation, and give you some idea of what to expect if you decide to participate. What is a Clinical Trial? Why Do People Become Involved in Clinical Trials? What are the Risks Involved in Clinical Trials? What is a Placebo? What are the Potential Benefits of Participating in a Clinical Trial? Where are Clinical Trials Performed? Are Volunteers Required to Pay for Participation in Clinical Trials? How Do People Become Involved in a Clinical Trial? What are the Participant's Responsibilities? Can People be Enrolled in a Clinical Trial Without Their Knowledge? Stay Connected With Amgen. Contact Us Sitemap Privacy Statement Terms of Use © 1996-2021 Amgen Inc. All Rights Reserved.