During Phase 3 of human testing, what is primarily studied alongside drug efficacy?

• A. Patient satisfaction
• B. Drug marketing strategies
• C. Adverse effects
• D. Cost-effectiveness

Answer: (C)

During Phase 3 of human testing, the primary focus is on evaluating the drug's efficacy in a larger patient population, which provides more comprehensive data on how well the drug works in real-world situations. Alongside this assessment, a critical component is the study of adverse effects. This involves monitoring and analyzing any negative reactions or side effects experienced by participants, which is essential for understanding the safety profile of the drug.

This phase typically involves thousands of participants and aims to identify not only how effective the drug is but also the frequency and severity of potential side effects when used in a broader demographic. By closely examining adverse effects, researchers can determine whether the benefits of the drug outweigh any risks, which is fundamental in the decision-making process for regulatory approvals and future clinical use.