Clinical trials are designed to make the risks as low as possible and the benefits as great as possible to all the people who take part, whichever treatment they get.

When you take part in a trial you will be monitored carefully during and after the study. You will have regular tests and you may be asked some extra questions about how you are feeling. Sometimes this means going to your hospital or GP more often than you would normally, so bear this in mind before you agree to take part. Attending the hospital can be tiring and may cost you more money for travel. Ask how many extra visits will be needed and think about how convenient this will be for you. You can also ask if the research trial will pay for your additional travel costs, and ask them how you can claim.

The benefit of this extra attention is that any changes in your health – whether or not they are related to the treatment you are having – may be noticed and dealt with earlier than if you were not in a trial.