Clinical Trials

What are clinical trials?

Clinical trials are research studies that include humans and are designed to answer specific questions. They aim to evaluate new ways of treating, diagnosing, screening, or preventing health conditions.

Clinical trials are highly controlled studies that include set phases and take years to complete.

Dr. Wechsler is a fellowship-trained epileptologist dedicated to improving the lives of his patients with epilepsy. At his private practice, Consultants in Epilepsy & Neurology PLLC, he participates in clinical trials for clinical research. 

What are the phases of clinical trials?

Clinical trials involve human subjects and must follow a careful process to minimize risk. The FDA requires clinical trials to undergo four phases to assess safety and effectiveness before they approve any medical treatment or medication. 

Clinical trial phases include:

Phase I trials

During phase I clinical trials, researchers test the effectiveness and safety of a new medication or treatment in a small group of healthy people or people with the disease. 

Phase II trials

In phase II clinical trials, researchers test the new drug or treatment in a larger group of people to determine how well it works and assess side effects. 

Phase III trials

For phase III clinical trials, researchers test the new drug or treatment in groups of hundreds or thousands of participants. These larger trials provide more data about the safety and effectiveness of the new treatment. 

Phase IV trials

Phase IV clinical trials test the new drug or treatment on thousands of volunteers. This phase allows researchers to continue to gather information about the safety and effectiveness of the treatment. The FDA may approve a treatment or medication while under phase IV clinical trials. 

How can I participate in clinical trials?

Schedule a consultation at Consultants in Epilepsy & Neurology PLLC to learn more about the current clinical trials. Dr. Wechsler conducts an interview to determine if you meet the study criteria for participation. 

If you’re a good candidate for the clinical trial, Dr. Wechsler reviews the guidelines with you and provides the medication or treatment at no cost to you. However, in order to continue to participate in the clinical trial, you must adhere to the set guidelines. 

Missing appointments or treatments may affect the results of the study.

Find out more about the clinical trial by calling Consultants in Epilepsy & Neurology PLLC or scheduling an appointment online today.