Frequently Asked Questions about Participating in a Clinical Trial
If you cannot find the answer to your questions you may contact us at 425-453-0404 or send an email to [email protected].
To be contacted about this study, fill out the contact form or call 425-453-0404.
What kind of clinical studies do you conduct?
Most of our studies are medication-based clinical studies, evaluating potential new treatments for a variety of conditions. While we occasionally conduct device studies, the vast majority of our research involves investigational medications.
Do I need health insurance to participate?
No. We do not charge for study-related care, and health insurance is not required to participate.
Is there compensation or help with transportation?
Many studies offer compensation for your time and participation, as well as reimbursement for travel expenses. Details vary by study and will be explained to you before enrollment.
What stage are your clinical studies?
Most of our studies are Phase 2 or Phase 3 clinical studies, meaning the medications have already undergone initial safety testing and are now being evaluated for effectiveness and continued safety.
A small number of studies may be Phase 1 studies, which are the earliest stage of research and focus on understanding how a medication works in the body and establishing its safety profile. We may also occasionally conduct Phase 4 studies, which take place after a medication has already been approved.
Are the treatments FDA approved?
Most studies involve investigational medications that have not yet been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. However, all studies are conducted under strict regulatory oversight, and some may involve already-approved medications being studied for new uses.
Do I have to take an experimental medication?
The majority of our studies are medication-based. However, if that is a concern, please let us know. We occasionally offer non-medication studies, such as device studies, and can help determine if there are alternative options that may be a better fit for you.
Is it safe to participate in a clinical study?
Participant safety is our top priority. Participants are closely monitored by licensed medical professionals throughout the study, and all studies are reviewed by an Institutional Review Board (IRB). While all medical research carries some level of risk, all risks are communicated at every step of the study, and every effort is made to minimize those risks.
Will the study medication interact with my current medications? Can I continue my current medications?
Your current medications will be carefully reviewed by a clinician during the screening process. Some studies allow certain medications, while others may require adjustments for safety or scientific reasons. We will never ask you to make changes without a thorough medical evaluation and discussion, and we always keep your health and safety top of mind.
If I receive a placebo, will I still need to stop my current medications?
In many studies, yes. Study requirements, such as stopping certain medications, apply regardless of whether you receive the study medication or placebo. This is necessary to ensure accurate results and maintain participant safety.
That said, every study is different. A clinician will review your current medications with you and explain any required changes before you decide to participate.
How will I know if I’m receiving placebo or active treatment?
Many studies are blinded, meaning neither you nor the study team knows which treatment you are receiving. This helps ensure unbiased results. In certain situations, this information can be accessed if medically necessary.
Is marijuana allowed in clinical studies? What if I use medical marijuana?
Marijuana – even when used for medical purposes – can affect how study medications work and may impact safety and study results. For that reason, most clinical studies require that participants do not use marijuana during the study. If you are not able or willing to stop use for the duration of a study, participation may not be a good fit at this time. We recommend scheduling a screening visit only if you are able to meet study requirements, including passing any required drug screening.
Can I complete a prescreen over the phone?
We take a more holistic approach to screening. Rather than reviewing individual studies over the phone, we conduct evaluations in person so a licensed medical provider can assess your full medical history, current medications, and overall eligibility. This allows us to match you with the study that is the best overall fit, not just one specific study. This also helps ensure a safer, more accurate screening process.
How do I get more information about the study? How often do I need to come in?
Every study is different, and the specific study details will be discussed in depth at your first visit. You will also be provided with a schedule of activities in your consent form, outlining the entire study. Most studies require a minimum of monthly visits (although longer trials may have long duration between visits). You can view all our ongoing trials at www.clinicaltrials.gov
Can I stop participating if I change my mind?
Yes, your participation is completely voluntary. You have the right to end the trial at any time without consequences or loss of regular medical care.
Can I participate in multiple clinical studies at the same time?
For safety and scientific accuracy, participants are not allowed to be enrolled in more than one clinical study at the same time. Many studies also require a waiting period between participation in different studies.