WHAT IS A CLINICAL TRIAL?
This is an investigation in HIV+ patients to discover or verify the clinical, pharmacological or any other pharmacodynamic effects of an investigational drug and to identify any adverse reactions with the object of ascertaining it's safty and efficacy.The sponsors for these trials are various pharmaceutical companies who produce the drug.
WHO CAN GET ON IT?
All HIV+ patients who fit the criteria as specified by the sponsor.
WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF TRIALS?
- Naive Trials i.e.for patients who have never been on any anti-retroviral
medication.
- Non Naive Trials i.e. for patients who have taken anti-retroviral
medication in the past.
Most trials are outpatient trials where they are seen weekly or 2 weekly and then monthly. Sometimes it is necessary to be admitted into hospital for a short period of time.
WHAT ARE THE COSTS AND TIME OF TRIALS?
There is no cost to the patient. All costs are sponsored by the pharmaceutical companies. The amount of time of being on a trial can vary from 1 to 2 years.
WHERE DO I GO TO APPLY?
Most of the primary care clinics and Day Hospitals are aware of where the trial units are and if patients are interested they must speak to their Clinic Doctor, as a referal letter and an appointment is required. (See ARC listing for sites)
THE POSITIVES AND NEGATIVES
The positive points for the patient of being on a clinical trial is that he gains access to HIV medication, free of charge and is carefully monitored for adverse advents at all times.
The negative points are that the patient has to attend the trials unit at very specific times and this can sometimes be disruptive if he is working.
****To find a Clinical Trial facility in the database please SEARCH under the category Clinical Trials and the AREA you are in. If nothing comes up in that area please search under All Areas.
