About our research studies

The Woolcock conducts numerous research studies each year into respiratory and sleep disorders, such as asthma, allergies, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, sleep apnea, insomnia, restless legs, mesothelioma, lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), etc. These important research studies are carried out within the Research Groups.

What are research studies (also known as clinical trials)?

Medical research studies or clinical trials are designed to test the safety and effectiveness of a treatment, and are an essential step in the process of developing new treatments, or improving existing treatments.

These studies enable researchers to support their theoretical treatment plan with the actual real-life findings in trial results. Many medical treatments that we take for granted today were originally scientific innovations supported through clinical trials and the participation of the general community: asthma sprays, nasal sprays, many drug therapies, CPAP machines etc. Clinical trials are a crucial part of the effort in improving global health.

Every year the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research undertakes dozens of research studies in respiratory and sleep medicine, some short-term, others lasting a number of years. A trial might test a new drug treatment, or study new uses for an existing drug, new doses or new treatment combinations, or compare existing standard treatments. Before human trials begin there is extensive testing in animals.

These pre-clinical studies are designed to examine the tissue effects of the drug, the way it is processed in the body, and its potential for toxicity. Any trial medication must adhere to strict manufacturing standards for stability and purity. An Ethics Committee checks all details of a trial before it is advertised to the community and monitors its progress.

Volunteer participantss are given a detailed medical history (screening) before they are invited onto a trial, the doctors taking into account their medical condition and drug regime so that introducing another trial drug has no adverse interactions. The screening process is an exacting one. Each clinical trial has a specific set of exclusion and inclusion criteria for a volunteer to meet before they are eligible to participate. The screening ensures uniform results and participant safety.

Advantages of participating in research studies

• Gaining access to new treatments before they are available to the general public
• Obtaining expert medical care at a leading edge research centre
• A sense of empowerment from becoming well-informed about your illness and playing an active part in your own health care
• Helping others in the future by participating in the research effort

Main risks of participating in research studies

• The treatment may turn out to be ineffective
• Adverse reaction to the treatment
• Time and inconvenience associated with clinical visits

Your responsibilities as a research study participant

• Accurately report your medical history
• Let your doctor know what medications you are on
• Follow all safety requirements
• Attend all scheduled appointments
• Take trial medications as prescribed (and keep out of reach of children)
• Inform your study doctor immediately if you develop any unexpected symptoms

Your rights as a research study participant

Participation is entirely voluntary – you cannot be enrolled without your written and informed consent.

Your welfare is the prime concern of the researchers and they are under obligation to answer all your questions honestly and thoroughly. They will not apply pressure to enrol you in a trial nor to keep you enrolled once the trial is underway. Your privacy and confidentiality will be protected at all times.

Once enrolled, you can withdraw at any time. Any out of pocket travel expenses (within the metropolitan area of Sydney) incurred whilst participating in a clinical trial will be reimbursed by the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research.