Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is A Clinical Study?

A clinical study is a scientifically designed study conducted by qualified physicians and staff to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a drug or device for a specific disease or condition. All drugs and devices go through a rigorous series of tests before researchers try them on people. Clinical research studies provide the most promising way to test drugs and devices. All drugs and devices in widespread use today were first proven effective and safe in clinical studies.

What Studies Are Conducted At Integra Clinical Research?

Integra conducts studies for: Alzheimer’s Disease, Diabetic Neuropathy, HIV Neuropathy, Migraines, Multiple Sclerosis, Neuropathic Pain, Parkinson’s Disease, Post Herpetic Neuralgia, Seizures / Epilepsy, Sleep Disorders / Insomnia, and Stroke.

What Are The Risks & Benefits Of Participating In A Study?

Many eligible volunteers enroll in a research study because they hope that they will personally benefit from the study-related medicine or device they receive. There are risks in every research study just as there are in taking any medication. Participants must be fully aware of the potential risks before they volunteer. An informed consent form outlines the risks, benefits and possible side-effects in detail and is required to be understood and signed by the participant before any research procedure takes place. In some cases, some participants may not receive the study medication, but instead will receive a placebo, which is an inactive substance that looks like the study medication.

What Is The Purpose Of A Study?

A clinical research study evaluates the safeness and effectiveness of an investigational drug or device on symptoms associated with a disease or a condition.

Does My Doctor Have To Give Her / His Permission?

No, but we encourage all participants to discuss the informed consent form with their doctor. You will also continue to see your doctor for any non-study related illnesses.

Can A Participant Continue Taking All Of Their Other Medications If They Choose To Participate In The Study?

This will depend on a number of factors, including what types of medication are currently being taken. The study doctor will be able to answer this and discuss it with you if you qualify to participate.

Who Pays For The Clinical Trial?

Funding for clinical research comes from both the federal government (through the National Institutes of Health) and private industry (pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies). The sponsor of the study hires physicians, who may work in a wide variety of health care settings, to conduct the clinical trial.

Who Do I Contact To Learn More?

Please call our office at 210-614-4884 and ask to speak with a clinical research coordinator.

Where is the Medical Records Release Form you mentioned?

Right here! Just click the image to open the pdf, then print the form on your printer, fill it out and sign.