Tips for Participants: What to Expect in a Clinical Trial

Participating in a clinical trial involves a commitment to following study protocols, open communication with the research team, and understanding the potential benefits and risks. For those who choose to participate, it’s an opportunity to contribute to scientific advancement while receiving dedicated medical attention. 

Understanding what to expect can help participants feel confident and prepared for this meaningful journey. Let’s take a closer look at some general things participants can expect during a clinical trial.

Initial Screening and Informed Consent

The first step in any clinical trial is determining eligibility. Participants may need to undergo a screening process that assesses their health status, medical history, and other factors related to the study’s criteria. This ensures the trial is safe for them and that their participation contributes valuable data.

Before joining, participants will receive detailed information about the trial through an informed consent process. This includes the study’s purpose, procedures, potential risks, and benefits. Participants have the opportunity to ask questions and can withdraw at any time without penalty.

Study Procedures

Once enrolled, participants will follow a structured plan called a protocol. The protocol outlines the study’s duration, visits, and procedures, which may include physical exams, blood tests, imaging scans, or other assessments. Participants might also be asked to take the study medication or supplement, follow a specific diet, or engage in particular activities.

The level of involvement varies depending on the trial. Some require frequent visits to a research facility, while others might involve remote monitoring or less intensive follow-ups. Participants should plan for the time commitment and ask the research team about any logistical concerns.

Monitoring and Support

Participants in a clinical trial are closely monitored for their health and safety. Research teams, often composed of doctors, nurses, and other specialists, track participants’ progress and document any changes in health or adverse effects. This monitoring ensures that participants receive prompt care if any issues arise.

Participants are encouraged to communicate openly with the research team, reporting symptoms, side effects, or concerns. They are active partners in the study and their feedback is invaluable to the trial's success.

Confidentiality and Ethical Oversight

Privacy is a top priority in clinical trials. Personal information is typically anonymized or stored securely to protect participants’ identities. Ethical oversight is provided by Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) or Ethics Committees, which ensure the trial is conducted according to strict guidelines that prioritize participant welfare.

Research at Biofortis

Biofortis is dedicated to protecting consumer health throughout the world by delivering a wide range of testing and consultancy services to the food, supplement, and nutrition industries. Biofortis supports this mission in two ways—through clinical trials and sensory and consumer insights testing. We specialize in clinical research targeting foods, ingredients, and dietary supplements that affect body structures, function, and overall health. Contact us with any clinical trial or scientific consulting needs.