Research Studies
Medical research studies are scientific investigations that shape the future of medicine by helping us find:
- New medicines
- Better formulations of existing medicines
- New uses for existing medicines
Before introducing new medicine to the public, pharmaceutical companies must test their investigational drugs very carefully through medical research studies (also called “clinical trials”). Global regulatory agencies, such as the United States Food and Drug Administration, thoroughly review the data collected in these studies before authorizing new medications for the public. Once a drug is authorized, many pharmaceutical companies continue to conduct research on the authorized drug to collect ongoing safety and effectiveness data.
Study doctors are required to follow strict rules to protect the safety of the people who volunteer to participate in research studies. All researchers must follow a detailed plan, called a protocol, which explains all study procedures and has been reviewed by an independent board (or group of people) that oversees the safety of all study participants. Additionally, before enrolling individuals into a study, researchers must fully explain the study to the individual and answer any questions they may have. Participation in a research study is voluntary, and individuals may withdraw from the study at any time for any reason. Participants may or may not benefit from the investigational drug.
