A clinical trial is a research study done with people to test new treatments, medicines, or ways to improve health.
Doctors and scientists use clinical trials to check if a new method is safe and works better than existing ones.Know More

Clinical trials help find new and better ways to prevent, diagnose, or treat diseases.
They show if a treatment is safe and effective before it becomes available to everyone.

Clinical trials follow strict rules to keep participants safe.They are approved by ethics committees and monitored by doctors.
The participants / patients will be told about all possible risks before you decide to join.Know More

Regular treatment uses medicines and methods already proven to work.In a trial, the treatment is still being tested to see how well it works and if it’s safe.
Patients may have more check-ups and monitoring in a trial.Know More

Each trial has specific rules about who can take part, called eligibility criteria.
These include things like age, type of illness, medical history, and current health.
A doctor or research team will check if you are a match.Know More

There are different types of trials.Some test new medicines, others test devices, surgeries, or lifestyle changes.
Some trials focus on preventing disease or improving quality of life.

Some trials last a few weeks or months, while others can go on for years.
It depends on what is being tested and how long it takes to study the results.
Participants / patients will be told how long the trial will take before you join.

Clinical trials happen in four phases.
Phase 1 tests safety and dosage in a small group.
Phase 2 checks safety, efficacy and how well the treatment works in a small group of people.
Phase 3 checks safety and compares it to standard treatment in more people.
Phase 4 continuous checks safety and track long term side effects after approval

Sometimes, trial treatments are not available outside because they are still being tested.
If the treatment works well, it may be approved later.
One can ask your doctor if similar approved treatments are available.

If the treatment doesn’t help or you are uncomfortable, you can stop at any time.Your safety comes first, and the research team will help guide your next steps.
You will not lose your regular medical care.Know More

You may get access to new treatments before others.You also help others by contributing to medical knowledge. You will be carefully monitored, and your health will be well cared for.Know More

The safety of trials is checked by ethics committees, government bodies, and the doctors involved. They review the trial plan and make sure your rights are protected throughout the study.Know More

The team may include doctors, nurses, clinical research coordinators, and data managers.
They work together to explain the trial, monitor your health, and guide you through every step.

A treatment contains real medicine that may help your condition.A placebo looks like the medicine but has no active drug in it.
It helps doctors compare results to see if the real treatment works better.Know More

No, trials are done for many health problems—like diabetes, heart disease, infections, and pain.
They are not only for cancer or rare illnesses.
People with common conditions can also take part.

Standard treatment is the usual care given for a certain illness.It is based on past research and is already approved by health authorities.
In trials, standard treatment may be used as a comparison.

An intervention is the action being tested in a trial.It could be a new medicine, surgery, device, or even a diet or lifestyle change.
The goal is to see how well it works.Know More

Randomization means people are placed into trial groups by chance, not choice.It helps make the study fair and avoid bias.
You may be in the group getting the new treatment or the standard one.Know More

Trials are carefully planned by researchers.They decide what the goal is, who can join, what will be tested, and how results will be measured.
The design is approved by experts before the trial begins.Know More

You can ask your doctor, or check on CTRI (Clinical Trials Registry–India).If a trial matches your health condition, the team will explain everything.
You can then decide if you want to join.Know More

Not always. Some trials allow direct enrolment. But it is helpful to talk to your doctor, who can guide you and share if the trial fits your condition.

Yes, there are trials made especially for children and older adults. Extra care is taken for these age groups to make sure it is safe.
The trial will explain who can take part.Know More

Some trials offer money to cover time, travel, or missed work.Others may not pay but provide free tests and medicines.
You will be informed about payments before you join.Know More

You must follow the instructions, take the medicine as told, and attend visits.You should report how you feel and any side effects.
This helps researchers understand the treatment better.Know More

Yes, you can leave the trial whenever you want. You don’t need to give a reason.
Your future medical care will not be affected.Know More

Read the information and ask the research team questions. Think about your health, safety, time, and comfort.
Talk to your doctor or family before making a choice.Know More

Clinical trials do not charge for investigational medicines or tests but in some you may be asked to cover for regular / routine standard medicines or tests.
Always ask about possible expenses before you join.Know More

Yes, most clinical trials provide free medicines, check-ups, and lab tests as part of the study.
This helps make sure all participants are treated equally.
You will not be asked to pay for anything related to the trial.Know More

It depends on the trial.Some medicines may be allowed, while others may need to be stopped.
Always tell the trial team about all medicines you are taking.Know More

Yes, many trials provide travel allowance or arrange transport. You can ask the trial team if support is available.
This helps you attend visits without extra burden.

Talk to the trial team about your situation. Some trials may offer fewer visits, home visits, or video calls.
They will try to make it easier for you to participate.

Yes, some trials offer home visits or remote monitoring, which helps people take part without visiting the hospital often. In India, this field is still being explored, so such options are limited. You can consult your study team to check if they provide these facilities.

Sometimes, your doctor may work with the research team.You can also choose to keep your doctor informed.
It’s good to update your doctor about your trial participation.

This depends on the trial design. You may need to come weekly, monthly, or just a few times.
You will be told the schedule before you join.

Some trials support caregivers with travel help or information sessions. They can also attend meetings to understand your care better.
Ask if any caregiver support is offered during the trial.

Informed consent is a process in which the team will explain the study to you in your language so that you can understand it. Once you have received the information, you can choose to consent.
Consent means you are agreeing or not agreeing. You will get a form with all the details—risks, benefits, and your rights. You can ask questions and only sign if you agree.Know More

Yes, a research team member will explain the form in simple language.You can also bring a family member or friend to help.
Do not sign until you understand everything clearly.Know More

You can ask the team to explain the terms simply.They can also give the form in your local language.
Never feel shy to ask for help or clarification.

Yes, asking questions is your right.You can ask anything—big or small—before signing.
Only agree to join once you feel fully comfortable.

You can still say no and leave the trial at any time. Signing the form does not force you to continue.
Your regular care will not be affected.Know More

Yes, your personal details are kept private and secure.Details are stored safely and not shared without your permission.Only authorized people can see your data.
The results are shared without using your name and other identifiable details.Know More

Tell the research team immediately.They will check your condition and treat you.
If needed, the treatment will be stopped for your safety.Know More

You have the right to ask questions, say no, and leave anytime.You must be informed clearly about the trial.
Your privacy, health, and safety must be protected.Know More

Tell the trial team or your doctor right away. They will help you feel better or change your care plan.
You can also stop the trial if needed.

Yes, the research team will clearly explain your rights. You will get a consent form that includes all the details.
You can take time to read and decide.

You can contact the Ethics Committee listed in your consent form. You may also speak to the trial coordinator or your doctor.
Your concern will be taken seriously and handled with care.Know More

Yes, some treatments may cause side effects or not work.All possible risks will be explained before you join.You can leave the trial anytime if you feel unsafe.

CTRI is a government website where all clinical trials in India must be registered.It helps the public find real, approved trials.
You can use it to learn about trials and check if they are genuine.Know More

Go to the CTRI website and use the search box. You can search by disease name, hospital, or location.Know More

It shows the trial name, purpose, who can join, location, and contact details.It also tells if the trial is recruiting participants.
You can use it to decide if a trial fits you.Know More

Check if the trial is listed on the CTRI website.All real trials must be registered there.
If it is not listed, be cautious and ask your doctor.Know More

Yes, you can type your disease name in the CTRI search bar.It will show all trials currently running for that condition.
You can also filter by state or hospital.

A trial site is a hospital or clinic where the clinical trial is happening. You can find nearby sites by checking CTRI or asking your doctor.
The trial listing usually includes site names and phone numbers.

It means the trial is approved but not open for volunteers yet.You cannot join at this stage.
You can check again later or contact the site for updates.Know More

Yes, every listing on CTRI has contact numbers and email IDs. You can call the site or trial coordinator for help.
You may also ask your doctor to explain.

You can ask a patient advocate, clinical research coordinator, or doctor to guide you.
Some websites and videos also explain CTRI terms in simple language.Know More

Visit the CTRI website and search using your city or state name.You can also check with local hospitals or doctors.
Look for trials marked “Recruiting”.

Write down your questions before the meeting.Ask about the trial’s purpose, risks, time, and benefits.
It’s okay to ask for explanations in simple language.Know More

Yes, some hospitals and NGOs run support groups.You can meet others going through the same experience.
They provide emotional support and practical tips. You can connect with our team for more explanation and support.

Yes, in some cases, the trial team may help connect you to past or current participants (if they agree).Talking to others can help you understand the experience.
Your privacy will also be respected.

Yes, patient advocates are trained to support you. They help you understand your rights, trial details, and decision-making.
You can ask the hospital to connect you to one.

PACER trains and supports patients and caregivers in research. They help you understand trials, your rights, and how to take part safely.
They also raise awareness and bring patient voices into research.

Every clinical trial must be reviewed by an Ethics Committee. They check the trial for safety, fairness, and clarity. Only after approval can the trial begin.

PvPI (Pharmacovigilance Program of India) tracks and studies side effects of medicines.
It helps keep medicines safe for the public. You can report side effects to PvPI through doctors or as a consumer / patient as well.Know More

You can tell the trial team, doctor, or pharmacist. You can also use the PvPI website to report online or using the toll free number.
Make sure to note when the side effect started and what happened.Know More

Call the emergency number provided by the trial team.Go to the nearest hospital if needed.
Always inform the research team as soon as possible.Know More

Clinical trials are closely watched by experts and follow strict rules.They are approved by ethics committees and registered in CTRI.
You can also talk to doctors and patient advocates for guidance.

You can reach PACER through the website, or email provided. They help explain trials, address your concerns, and connect you to resources.
They also support patients who want to get involved in research.

Yes, PACER and other groups often hold talks, camps, and online events.These are open to patients, caregivers, and the public.
You can join to learn more and meet others interested in research.

Patient advocacy groups are organizations that support patients and families.
They share reliable health information, help patients understand their rights, and promote better care.
They also work with doctors and researchers to make healthcare more patient-focused.

You can ask your hospital, trial coordinator, or doctor for contact details.
Some groups like PACER also have websites or helplines you can reach out to.
Patient advocates are here to support and guide you.

Yes, in many trials, patient advocates are involved from the beginning. They help make sure patient needs are heard and respected.
Their role is to improve communication and make research more inclusive.

Yes, some trials offer mobile apps to help you track appointments, medicines, and symptoms.
These apps may send reminders or allow you to message the research team.
Ask the team if your trial has one.

You can sign up for newsletters or ask your doctor. Some trial sites also share updates through email, SMS, or WhatsApp.
You can choose how you want to stay informed.

Yes, every trial gives you a main contact—usually a research coordinator or doctor. They will answer your questions and help you throughout the study.
Their name and number are listed in your consent form.

Yes, some trials offer video or phone consultations. This is useful if you live far away or can’t travel often.
The team will let you know if this option is available.

The open-label extension (OLE) phase is a part of a trial that comes after the main study. In this phase, all patients who agree can get the study medicine, even if they were earlier on placebo, standard care, or the new drug. Everyone knows what treatment they are receiving — nothing is hidden.

This phase is important because:
1. It gives patients a chance to try the new treatment, which many hope for when joining a study.
2. It helps researchers see how safe and effective the medicine is when used for a longer time.

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