What are phases of a clinical trial?
Phase I clinical trials consist of: Researchers testing a new drug or treatment for the first time in a small group of people, usually the group is about 20-80 healthy volunteers. The tests are done to evaluate safety, determine a safe dosage range, and identify any possible side effects. Phase II clinical trials consist of: Researchers testing a new drug or treatment for the second time in a larger group of people, usually the group is about 100-300 volunteers. The tests are done to further evaluate safety, effectiveness, and identify any possible side effects. Phase III clinical trials consist of: Researchers testing a new drug or treatment for the third time in a much larger group of people, usually the group is about 2,000-3,000 volunteers. The tests are done to further evaluate safety, compare the new drug to commonly used treatments, and collect information that will support its relevance to the Food and Drug Administration. Phase IV clinical trials consist of: Researchers contin
