HSA 2007 Biology Item 11

Medical researchers are studying a new drug to treat anemia. Eligible patients are asked if they would like to participate in the study. If a patient does participate, there is a 50% chance that the patient will receive the actual anemia medication and a 50% chance that the patient will receive a placebo, or sugar pill. The placebo is not meant to have any effect on the patient’s anemia. The study is double-blinded, meaning that neither the researchers nor the patients know which kind of pill is being taken—the actual medication or the placebo.

• Explain why a placebo is being used in the study.
• Explain why it is important to conduct a double-blinded study.
• Describe both the possible benefits and risks of drug trials, such as the one in the example, to both the patient and society.

Write your answer in your Answer Book.