Clinical trials

A clinical trial is research carried out on humans to answer questions related to advanced treatments and to find more effective and safer ways of treating or improving people’s health.

Each clinical trial is performed by a specialist with a doctor’s degree. They are called the principal investigator. The team carrying out the trial may include doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.

Clinical trials may be supported or funded by pharmaceutical companies, academic medical centres, volunteer groups, or other organisations. Doctors, healthcare providers, and others may also fund a clinical trial.

In accordance with the principles of Good Clinical Practice, a clinical trial is initiated only if the expected benefit outweighs the potential risk. A clinical trial is conducted on the principle that the interests of the patient always take precedence over the interests of science and society.

If there is no treatment for your disease or if you have not responded to your standard treatment, you may consider taking part in a clinical trial.

For more information on clinical trials, see FAQ