What are the disadvantages of participating in a clinical trial?

Every new treatment carries a certain risk of, hitherto unknown, side effects. The foreseeable risks are minimised and weighed by an ethics committee. The doctor will go over these risks with you before you decide to participate in a clinical trial.

During a clinical trial, you may need to come to the hospital more often than usual, for additional check-ups or investigations, for example. You may also have to stay in hospital longer than usual to be followed up for a certain period of time after your treatment. Furthermore, additional guidelines may be imposed from the study for some visits, such as to come sober or at a certain time. Your doctor and study coordinator will discuss this with you before you decide to participate in a clinical trial.