Medical Research

The simple answer is dangerously. It can cause strokes, heat stroke when taken in hot nightclubs, heart attack in particular for those who have heart conditions and are unaware that they have these conditions. Some people have allergic reactions, which... Full Answer

Participation in a clinical trial is voluntary. No one can force you to participate. You should be fully informed about the possible risks and benefits of the trial before you consent to participate. If you choose not to take part, you will be offered... Full Answer

Clinical trials compare new treatments to accepted treatments or to a placebo if no standard treatment exists. They allow researchers to find out whether a new treatment works better than accepted treatments. The new treatment might work as well as or... Full Answer

If you are accepted into the clinical trial and you give your consent to participate, you will be given a structured program to follow. You will have a schedule of tests, doctor appointments and treatments. You may also be asked to keep a diary of your... Full Answer

There are generally known and unknown risks associated with clinical trials, such as: There may be unpleasant, serious, or even life-threatening side effects resulting from the treatment. The treatment may not be effective for the participant.... Full Answer

The brain is an incredibly complex organ. In this video, neurologist Dr. Greg Petsko discusses what we know -- and don't know -- about the brain and how it works. Full Answer

Neurologist Dr. Greg Petsko says scientists have yet to figure out why cells in the brain react differently than cells in other parts of the body. Find out why answering that question is important by watching this video. Full Answer

Clinical trials include research at four different phases. Each phase answers different questions about what’s being studied. The phases for clinical trial testing for a new treatment are:   •Phase I - This is the first step in testing a... Full Answer

If a doctor asks you to volunteer for a clinical trial, you do not need to say yes. Ask questions and then decide what makes sense for you. If you say no, your care at the hospital and your relationship with your doctor will not be affected. If you agree... Full Answer

Clinical trials benefit thousands of people every year, but your decision to enroll should not be a purely altruistic one. Get as much information as you can by asking questions such as these: Why is the study being done? Have other studies evaluated... Full Answer