Clinical trials, also known as clinical research studies, are the means by which the efficacy, suitability and safety of new or experimental pharmaceuticals are determined.
A clinical trial of a new drug involves the participation of patient volunteers who ingest the medicine in question while under the supervision of physicians involved in the research. The effects of the drug are noted and cross-referenced with the condition of each patient as the trial progresses, and the benefits and effectiveness (if any) are carefully observed and recorded.
Patients with mesothelioma can volunteer to participate in these trials. Eligibility requirements and other information for the trial are usually listed on a Web site associated with the research project in question. Potential volunteers for mesothelioma clinical trials should be aware that unknown and harmful side effects may be caused by the drugs may exist. The drugs being tested may also prove to be harmful, ineffective or no more effective than standard treatments.
While no drug can cure mesothelioma, clinical trials offer the hope that new drugs and procedures effective against the disease can be developed. Patients interested in participating in a mesothelioma clinical trial should consult with their physicians prior to volunteering as a test subject.
