Taking Medicines

Frequently Asked Questions

22. What are clinical trials and who conducts them?

A clinical trial is a research study with people to find out if a new drug or treatment is both safe and effective. Clinical trials may be sponsored by pharmaceutical companies, federal agencies like the National Institutes of Health, foundations, individuals, and voluntary groups. Trials can take place in a variety of locations, such as hospitals, universities, doctors' offices, or community clinics.