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Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of some questions we get asked a lot. Questions like these (and more) will be addressed in further detail during enrollment as part of the informed consent process.

Table of Contents

Are clinical trials dangerous?

This is probably the most common question we hear from people interested in participation.

Clinical trials are heavily regulated and controlled by the FDA. Before a drug/treatment gets anywhere near a human subject, it has to undergo extensive, stringent safety tests in a laboratory setting on non-human test subjects (like mice). Despite this, there are always inherent risks that come with participating in a clinical trial, but the exact risks are always different depending on your own personal medical history and pre-existing conditions, as well as the on the exact drug/treatment being studied. Even though the drug/treatment may have never been tested in humans before, there will be risks and potential side-effects known in advance.

If you're interested about participation however, don't worry. A key part of the enrollment process requires you to give your informed consent to participate. The keyword there is informed; we will explain the risks involved in detail, but unless you can demonstrate that you actually understand them, you will not be allowed to participate.

Can I stop participating at any time?

Yes. You are under no obligation to continue treatment, and can exit the study at any time for any reason.

Do I need to be sick to participate in a clinical trial?

Definitely not! Every clinical trial is unique, and eligibility requirements are different for each one. Many trials exist that seek healthy volunteers who have no illness whatsoever, or don't have a specific illness.

When you apply with us, we will be able to place you in a study for which you are eligible. If you don't qualify for any of our currently active studies, we can add you to a waiting list, and will reach out when we have one that's a good fit.

How many clinical trials can I participate in at once?

You can only participate in one clinical trial at a time. This is both for your safety, and for the accuracy of the study results. We will not accept you into a study if you are already participating in another one, or have recently participated in one.

How much compensation will I receive for participation?

The amount of compensation received depends on the study, and is generally based on the level of committment required from you. Phase 1 studies for example typically require you to stay overnight for observation at one of our facilities, and will thus pay more than, for example, a Phase 3 study which may only require brief visits to our facilities a few times per month.

Some studies may also provide compensation for meals and/or travel expenses.

What if I know someone who would be interested in a clinical trial?

Then you're in luck! Our referral program will pay you $120 for each successful enrollment you send our way. If you refer someone to us, and they successfully enroll in the trial, then you get paid! Just tell them to give us your name and contact information, and we will get in touch.