Video narration
How did a medicine you take earn its place in care? Before human trials, preclinical research tests potential medicines in labs and often animals. It is not a human-trial phase. Phase I asks: what dose is tolerable, and what safety concerns appear? It often involves a small group; participants are not always healthy volunteers. Phase II studies people with the condition for early signs of benefit, while checking safety. Phase III tests benefit and risk in larger groups, often comparing treatment with another option or control, building evidence for regulators. If regulators authorize use, Phase IV follows in wider, routine care, monitoring safety and how well the medicine works. These are different questions, not four identical hurdles-and finishing them does not guarantee approval. Evidence supports use only if regulators authorize it; the route varies with the product, disease, and pathway.