What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a research study that tests whether a new treatment, test, or way of caring for people works well and is safe. Treatments can include medicines, vaccines, devices, surgical techniques, lifestyle changes, or talking therapies.

Trials are how doctors find out which treatments help most, which have side effects, and how to use them in everyday care. Every treatment your GP can prescribe today was studied in trials before it became routine.

Taking part is always your choice. You can leave a trial at any time, for any reason, and your usual NHS care will not be affected.