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INVESTIGATIONAL TRIALS
A clinical trial is a scientific study designed to find out whether an investigational drug is safe and will work in patients with a specific disease. In most clinical trials, neither the doctor nor the patient knows if the patient is getting the drug or a placebo (sugar pill). This type of trial is called a "randomized, controlled clinical trial."
By conducting trials, doctors and researchers are able to gather information on the benefits and side effects of the drug under investigation. Patients who participate in a clinical trial receive high-quality care and the knowledge that the trial may benefit others by increasing the understanding of the disease and its treatment.
You will want to speak with your doctor to find out if you are a suitable candidate for a clinical trial. For the most current information on clinical trials, visit the following Web sites:
References:
- Walter, N. et al. Current perspectives on the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Proc Am Thorac Soc. 2006; 3: 330-38
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