Will I get a sugar pill instead of treatment?

This is a common worry about cancer trials.

The facts

• In cancer trials, a placebo (dummy medicine) is rarely given on its own
• Usually everyone gets the standard treatment
• Some also get the new medicine on top

You will be told

• The written information must say if a placebo is used
• Ask the trial team before you sign

Ask

• What treatment will I get in each group?
• What happens after the trial ends?

Sources

• National Cancer Institute: What are clinical trials?