What are the benefits of participating in a clinical study?

• Clinical research studies are essential in developing treatments to prevent, diagnose or treat diseases. All treatments that have been approved for use by U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today for Crohn’s disease were first studied in clinical trials.
• As a clinical trial volunteer, you belong to a large community of volunteers around the world. You help researchers answer important health questions and help them discover new medical treatments.
• There are no costs to you for taking part in one of these studies. The costs of the investigational medication, study visits and study-related tests and procedures will be paid for by the study sponsor. You may also be reimbursed for certain expenses, such as travel to and from the study site.
• If you wish to hear from others who have participated in clinical studies, you can view testimonials here.
• In addition to testimonials, the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s Clinical Trial Community page offers many other resources and useful information that can help you understand clinical studies and determine whether you want to participate.

What are the risks of participating in a clinical study?

• Patients who participate in a clinical study may not receive any medical benefit.
• You could experience side effects associated with the study drug. The study staff will discuss the known risks in detail with you before you decide to participate.
• You will not be able to choose what treatment you receive. Patients will be randomized (like flipping a coin) to receive either the investigational study drug or placebo (an inactive substance).