FAQs
Answers to common questions about taking part in clinical trials.
Your Questions, Answered
Everything you need to know before you volunteer. Can’t find your answer? Contact us.
A clinical trial is a research study that tests how safe and effective a medicine, vaccine, device or treatment is in people. Every trial follows a detailed plan (protocol) that has been approved by an ethics committee.
Each study has its own eligibility criteria, such as age, sex, health status, medical history and medicines you take. These are listed on every study page. The study team decides whether you can join after a screening visit.
Yes. Many studies – especially early-phase studies – need healthy volunteers. On the Search Trials page, tick “Accepts healthy volunteers” to find them.
Many studies reimburse volunteers for their time and travel. Amounts vary by study and are approved by an ethics committee. You’ll be told about any payments before you agree to take part.
Trials are reviewed by ethics committees and closely monitored by doctors and research staff. Every study has possible risks and benefits, which the team explains before you consent. Ask as many questions as you need.
Screening checks whether a study is right for you. It usually includes questions about your health and may include a physical check, blood tests or other tests. Being screened doesn’t mean you have to take part.
Before you join, the study team explains what the study involves, including its purpose, visits, possible risks and benefits. You’ll get written information to read and can take time to decide. You only join once you sign a consent form.
Yes. Taking part is voluntary and you can withdraw at any time without giving a reason. Leaving a study won’t affect your usual medical care.
Phase 1 studies test safety and dosage in a small group, often healthy volunteers. Phase 2 studies look at how well a treatment works and its side effects in a larger group. Phase 3 studies compare it with standard treatments in large groups. Phase 4 studies follow a treatment after it has been approved.
Yes, we recommend it. Your doctor knows your health history and can help you decide whether a study is right for you. Don’t stop or change any medicine without speaking to your doctor.
Go to Search Trials, choose your continent and country, and add a condition or keyword if you like. You’ll see live results from ClinicalTrials.gov plus links to your country’s official registries.
No. ClinRec is an independent search and information service. Studies are run by hospitals, universities and research organisations, and you contact their study teams directly.
No. Searching for trials on ClinRec is free.
You can search without giving us any personal details. If you contact us, we only use your details to reply and help you. See our Privacy Policy.
