North Carolina Allergy and Asthma Center participates in clinical research evaluating new treatments for asthma and allergies for adults and children. Clinical research is important because it allows us to stay at the forefront of knowledge in our medical specialty. In some cases research allows us to use treatments that would otherwise be unobtainable for our patients.
What Is Clinical Research?
Clinical research is the study of new drugs or medical devices, or the study of better ways of using current medicines. New medical treatments are developed through combined efforts of universities, private industry, government, and physicians. Participation in clinical trials by patients and physicians is an essential part of the development of medical treatments. New treatments are carefully tested in accordance with strict U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations. Patient safety is our primary concern.
Who Can Participate?
You can participate if you have the condition that is being studied. An overwhelming number of patients who participate are pleased with their experience.
Will I Benefit From Clinical Research?
You receive close observation of your medical condition by experienced staff, which helps us learn how best to treat you. Study drugs and clinic visits are provided at no charge. Monetary compensation for your efforts is provided but differs from study to study.
What Are Disadvantages?
Many studies have a “placebo” possibility. A placebo contains no active medication and is used to sort out real vs imagined treatment effects. Neither the patient nor researchers are aware who might be selected at random to receive placebo or active drug, so neither the patient nor our staff can select which patient gets active study drug or placebo. Another potential disadvantage is that some studies take time, which may mean extra clinic visits or the requirement that you keep a diary of your symptoms and report to us if there any changes. The amount of time needed varies from study to study.
How Do I Participate?
Contact our office in High Point (336-883-1393) to speak to one of our highly experienced and dedicated study coordinators. The coordinators will be able to share information about research studies currently enrolling for allergies and asthma. Please let us know of your interest and we will work with you to find the appropriate study for you.