FAQ About Clinical Trials for Prostate Cancer

Below are simple answers to common questions about clinical trials. This information may help you talk with your doctor about options for advanced prostate cancer.

1. What Is a Clinical Trial?

A clinical trial is a research study. Doctors test a new treatment to see if it is safe and if it works better than standard care.

2. Why Might I Join a Trial?

  • You can get access to newer treatments.
  • Researchers gather more information on how well a treatment works.
  • You help improve knowledge about prostate cancer care.

3. What Types of Treatments Are Studied?

  • New Drugs: Pills or injections that may block cancer growth.
  • New Drug Combinations: Medicines used together with standard treatments.
  • Radiopharmaceuticals: Target cancer cells with low-level radiation.
  • Genetic Approaches: Treatments picked based on changes found in your cancer cells.

4. What Are Trial Phases?

Below is a quick overview of trial phases. Each phase has a goal, plus pros and cons.

Phase Main Goal Pros Cons
I Safety and best dose Early look at a new treatment Small number of participants
II How well it works More data on side effects and response Still a limited group
III Compare new vs. standard treatments Often includes many patients Can take a long time to finish
IV Watch long-term effects of approved drug Real-life information after approval Side effects may appear long after approval

5. Are There Risks?

  • You may have side effects from new treatments.
  • The new treatment may not work better than standard care.
  • Extra time and tests may be required.

6. Will I Still See My Regular Doctor?

Yes. Your usual doctor often stays involved. You may also have a research team, such as a study coordinator or research nurse. They work with your doctor to track your care and progress.

7. What If I Want to Leave a Trial?

You can stop at any time. You do not lose care or any other standard options. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns or wish to withdraw.

8. What Questions Should I Ask My Doctor?

  1. Am I eligible for any clinical trials?
  2. How might this trial help my type of prostate cancer?
  3. What side effects might I have?
  4. How often will I need tests?
  5. Will I keep taking my usual medicines?
  6. Who do I call if I have problems during the trial?
  7. How long does this trial last?

References

  1. Hofman MS, Emmett L, Sandhu S, et al. (2021). Lancet, 397(10276), 797–804. [Link]
  2. Antonarakis ES, Piulats JM, Gross-Goupil M, et al. (2020). J Clin Oncol, 38(32), 3682–3694. [Link]
  3. Annala M, Vandekerkhove G, Khalaf D, et al. (2018). Nat Med, 24(4), 528–533. [Link]