Frequently Asked Questions

Participating in clinical research as a volunteer is a highly impactful way to improve the lives of others. Hundreds of thousands of people have made a difference by agreeing to participate in clinical trials, which has resulted in significant advances in medical care and understanding. Without the help of these volunteers, we would not be able to make the progress we have made in improving the health of future generations.

If compensation is available for a specific trial, the GI Alliance of Illinois Research Staff will review that with you at your initial review/screening.

In clinical trials, a placebo is an inactive substance that is designed to resemble the real medicine. The purpose of using a placebo is to reduce bias and make the trial results more reliable. The consent form for a trial will specify if a placebo will be used. Prospective participants in a trial should make sure they understand the research approach being used, as it may impact their decision to take part.

In clinical trials, randomization is used when two or more alternative treatments are available for patients. Randomization is key to ensuring that any differences between the treatments being tested do not result from bias. In randomized controlled trials (RCTs), patients are assigned randomly to one of several treatment groups; patients are assigned by chance rather than choice. Researchers perform analysis at intervals during a trial, which may last years. If one treatment generates significantly better results than another, the trial closes.

Potential participants in clinical research should be aware that the activity may entail risks. These risks are not dissimilar to those experienced in day-to-day activities such as driving a car, and should not dissuade you from considering participation. However, it is important that participants are aware of the risks before enrolling in a clinical trial. The clinical trial risks will be outlined in the consent document, which volunteers must sign before participating. The GI Alliance of Illinois Research Team will also explain the risks to participants and answer any questions.