Changing Medicine. Changing Lives.™ That phrase captures UI Hospitals and Clinics’ belief that bench research makes a difference in bedside medicine.

Research is done in laboratories and often leads to cutting edge ideas and breakthrough thinking, but it can’t determine the safety or effectiveness of the experimental medications or experimental medications or devices in patients. Before receiving approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to produce and sell any experimental medications or devices, clinical trials must be held.

Clinical trials enroll people who are alike in some way, depending on the purpose of the trial. People who enroll in a clinical trial share specific characteristics or eligibility criteria that may include the type of disease or condition under study as well as age, sex, and general health of the participants.

Why should you participate in a clinical trial?

People participating in clinical trials have access to experimental medications or devices before they become available to the general public. If you participate, you may receive careful medical attention including examinations and tests at no cost. In some cases, you may be reimbursed for your time and expenses, such as travel.

And some people like the idea that they are contributing to medical science.

But participation is not without risks. The risks and possible side effects specific to the clinical trial are listed in the informed consent form and discussed by the research team before you enter the trial.

Are you interested?

If you are interested in getting more information about clinical trials or participating in a clinical trial, please visit Clinical Trials for a list of ongoing research and clinical trials at UI Hospitals and Clinics.

Clinical Trials

• Phase I trials—Researchers testexperimental drug ordevice in a small group ofhealthy volunteers (20–80)to evaluate its safety,determine a safe dosage,and identify side effects

• Phase II trials—The trial drug or device isgiven to a larger group ofpeople (100–300) with themedical condition intendedto be treated to see if it iseffective and safe

• Phase III trials— The trial drug or device isgiven to large groups ofpeople (1,000-3,000) toconfirm its effectiveness,monitor side effects,compare it to commonly used treatments, andevaluate its safety

• Phase IV trials—Post marketing studiesdelineate additionalinformation, including therisks, benefits, and best useof the drug or device