Pain researchers find 4000th volunteer

A RESEARCH project into pain involving Edinburgh University has recruited its 4000th volunteer patient.

The major initiative wants to improve the effectiveness of pain relief drugs for arthritis patients, a study which could eventually benefit millions.

Scientists also want to reduce unnecessary side-effects that are presented by many drugs currently prescribed.

The research team in Edinburgh, led by Prof Stuart Ralston as part of the Edinburgh Clinical Trials Unit, hopes to attract another 100 patients over the next year.

He said: "The nurses, doctors and other members of the trial team have worked incredibly hard to reach this target and we are looking forward to recruiting even more patients over the next year.

"To reach 4000 patients is a major achievement and I am delighted that we have been able to recruit so many."