About the Clinical Trials

Frequently Asked Questions

Informed ConsentPlaceboAdverse EffectsParticipant RightsTerms of ParticipationDevelopmentPhasesSafety

What is a clinical study?

According to the International Council for Harmonisation Good Clinical Practice (ICH GCP E6(R2)), a clinical study is any investigation in human subjects intended to discover or verify the clinical and/or pharmacological effects of an investigational product(s), and/or to identify any adverse reactions to an investigational product(s), and/or to study absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of an investigational product(s) with the object of ascertaining its safety and/or efficacy. Thus, a clinical study is an investigation in human subjects with the main goal to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the investigational product.

A successful clinical study is proof of the efficacy and safety of the investigational product; therefore, clinical studies are always an integral part of the drug development.


What are the stages of drug development?


How many people can participate in a clinical study?


Is participation in a clinical study free of charge?


How are the rights and safety of clinical study subjects ensured?


What are the terms of participation in a clinical study?


What adverse effects might a subject participating in a clinical study experience?


Can a subject participating in a clinical study receive a placebo instead of an investigational product?


What else should a potential subject be aware of?