How long do clinical trials last?

Clinical trials often run for many years. But that doesn't necessarily mean you would be expected to participate for the whole time.

A trial may need to last for years because:

  • it takes a long time to recruit enough people to take part
  • it involves giving treatment for a long time

The trial may need to follow up with patients to get a reliable picture of the long-term effects of the treatment.

This is something you should discuss with the doctors running a clinical trial if you are thinking about joining it.

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