25 Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Clinical Trials

Walking into a clinical trial conversation unprepared can leave you overwhelmed. With 7,801 trials currently recruiting, the right questions help you evaluate whether a specific trial fits your situation. Print this list or save it on your phone before your next appointment.

Important: This is educational information, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor about whether a clinical trial is right for you.

Safety Questions (1-5)

1. What are the known risks and side effects?

Every treatment carries risks. Ask the research team what side effects have been observed in earlier phases of testing. This gives you a realistic picture of what to expect.

2. Has anyone experienced serious adverse events in this trial?

Serious adverse events are tracked and reported. The team should be transparent about whether any participants have had severe reactions, hospitalizations, or other serious outcomes.

3. How will my safety be monitored during the trial?

Trials have specific monitoring protocols — blood tests, imaging, check-ups. Understanding the monitoring schedule tells you how quickly problems would be detected.

4. Is there an independent safety board reviewing this trial?

Most trials have a Data Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) — an independent group that reviews safety data during the trial and can halt it if risks outweigh benefits.

5. What happens if I experience a bad reaction?

Ask about the protocol for adverse events. Who do you call? Is there 24/7 access to the research team? Will treatment-related injuries be covered financially?

Eligibility Questions (6-10)

6. What are the specific eligibility criteria?

Every trial has inclusion and exclusion criteria. Ask for the full list so you can determine early whether you qualify. For help understanding criteria, see our eligibility criteria guide.

7. Do my current medications affect my eligibility?

Some trials require a washout period where you stop current medications. Others exclude patients taking specific drugs. Bring a complete medication list, including supplements.

8. Does my treatment history disqualify me?

Prior treatments — especially prior clinical trial participation or specific drug classes — can affect eligibility. Share your full treatment history upfront.

9. Are there age, health, or lab value requirements?

Trials set thresholds for organ function (kidney, liver, heart), blood counts, and other lab values. Ask which labs are required and whether your recent results qualify.

10. If I do not qualify, are there other trials I should consider?

Your doctor or the research team may know of related trials with different criteria. One rejection does not close the door — there are often similar studies with broader eligibility.

Logistics Questions (11-17)

11. How long does the trial last?

Trial duration varies widely — from a few weeks to several years. Ask about both the active treatment phase and any follow-up monitoring period.

12. How often will I need to visit the clinic?

Some trials require weekly visits. Others are monthly or quarterly. Map the schedule against your work, family, and other commitments.

13. Where are the trial sites located?

If the nearest site is far from home, ask about virtual visits, remote monitoring, or travel support. Distance is one of the top reasons patients decline or drop out of trials.

14. Is there compensation for travel or time?

Some trials offer travel reimbursement, parking stipends, or per-visit payments. Others do not. Knowing the financial picture upfront prevents surprises.

15. Will the study drug and tests be free?

Sponsors typically cover the experimental treatment and protocol-required tests. However, routine care costs (office visits, standard labs) may still go through your insurance.

16. Will my insurance cover the non-trial costs?

Contact your insurer before enrolling. Many plans cover routine care during a trial, but policies vary. The research team may have a financial coordinator who can help.

17. Can I continue seeing my regular doctor?

In most cases, yes. Your regular physician and the trial team will coordinate your care. Ask how communication between them will work.

During the Trial Questions (18-22)

18. Will I know whether I am getting the real treatment or a placebo?

In blinded trials, neither you nor your doctor knows which treatment group you are in. Ask whether the trial is blinded and what the chances are of receiving the active treatment versus placebo.

19. What tests and procedures will I undergo?

Get a clear list of all study-related procedures — blood draws, scans, biopsies, questionnaires. This helps you understand the physical and time burden.

20. Can I take my regular medications during the trial?

Some medications may interact with the study drug. Provide a full medication list and ask what you can and cannot take during the study period.

21. Who is my main point of contact if I have concerns?

Know the name and phone number of your study coordinator and principal investigator. Ask about after-hours contacts for urgent issues.

22. Can I withdraw at any time without consequences?

Yes — participation is always voluntary. But ask about the withdrawal process. Is there a tapering schedule? Will you be monitored after stopping?

After the Trial Questions (23-25)

23. What happens when the trial ends?

Ask about transition plans. Will you continue on the treatment if it works? Will you return to standard care? Some sponsors offer extended access programs.

24. Will I learn the results of the study?

Many trials share results with participants, but it may take months or years. Ask when and how you will be notified, and whether individual results (not just group data) will be available.

25. If the treatment works, how will I access it after the trial?

If the drug is not yet approved, access after the trial ends may be limited. Ask about compassionate use programs, expanded access, and the expected timeline for FDA approval.

Frequently Asked Questions