Have these medications
been tested before? Many of our clinical trials are phase
II thru IV. This means that these medications have gone
through early human testing. Some of the clinical trials
we conduct are for medications that have already been approved
by the FDA. Not all clinical trials are for medications,
some are for devices which may better help the respiratory
population use their medication.
Do I have
to stop taking my asthma medications?
No. All of the asthma trials allow the asthmatic to continue their
rescue medication and encourage its use at any time. In some trials
maintenance medications may not be allowed, but, not always. We
are currently conducting several trials that require asthmatics
to be on maintenance medications and continue their use through
the trial.
What if I
want to stop the study?
Your participation is voluntary and you may choose not to participate
at any time. There will be no penalty or loss of benefits to which
you are otherwise entitled.
What are the
benefits?
There are several benefits in participating in a clinical trial.
You are part of a process that is essential in the development of
medications. All medications must go through this process to become
FDA approved. You have an opportunity to try medications to help
your disease years before they become available on the market. You
can also receive study related medication study related testing
and asthma/allergy education all at no cost. Compensation for your
time is also provided.
How long are the studies?
Each study has different requirements. Some of our studies are long
term studies which can last several months or even years. Others
are very short, ranging from 2 weeks to 14 weeks.