Advancement in science means new medicines are constantly under development, and thorough testing is necessary to ensure their safety. Clinical trials are conducted to test the effectiveness of these medicines, and participation in clinical studies are common. All drugs reaching this stage will have undergone comprehensive testing to ensure their safety in humans.
Is it for me?
Participation in paid research can provide good money for little effort. However, there will be specific requirements for each study. You will generally need to be in good health, a non-smoker and not drink too much alcohol. Some trials, however, do seek participants with pre-existing conditions.
Prior to being accepted on a trial, you will need to undergo a full medical. Once accepted, you will be offered a place on a specific trial. A first-phase trial would mean you would be one of the first people to receive the drug. Stages two and three come after having passed successfully through phase one and are generally seen as being less risky; the amount you get paid is dependent on the length of time you participate.
Some paid research studies are short, some require an overnight stay of varying duration, and most will involve needles. The medication may be administered by injection or blood tests may be required. There is always the chance you will be given a placebo as this is an essential part of the research to compare the results between those who are taking the medication and those who believe they are taking it. The amount you get paid remains the same regardless. Specific trial information can be found with companies such as paid research studies from Trials 4 Us.
Will I get sick?
You may suffer some side effects from taking the drug. These can be slight, ranging from a headache to something more severe, but it is extremely rare to experience any serious side effects.
At the end of each study, you will be offered on-going aftercare to ensure there are no lasting side effects. You may wish to let your GP know that you have participated in a clinical trial.
The results of all trials are important and places are limited, so you should only enter into a trial if you are committed to seeing it through. However, if you are not happy with the progress of the trial, you are free to withdraw.
