Obesity clinical trials can be extremely valuable for both the participants and the medical professionals conducting the trials. These trials help scientists and pharmaceutical companies understand whether or not certain methods of treating obesity are safe and effective.
Many people thinking about participating in an obesity clinical trial might be wondering whether or not this type of trial is right for them. If you are in this position, be sure that you first understand the process of participating in a clinical study.
The Common Format of an Obesity Clinical Trial
Obesity trials usually involve a new investigational medication or obesity treatment that researchers are trying to gauge for effectiveness and safety.
If you want to be a part of these studies, you will first need to go through a rigorous screening process to make sure that you are a good candidate for the trial. For example, if you have certain pre-existing medical conditions, you may not qualify for participation in the trial.
You will also need to read and understand the Informed Consent process, which is a form that gives an overview of the trial, the potential benefits and risks, and gives those conducting the trial permission to document the results in detail.
If you decide to sign the Informed Consent Form, please note that you can decline participation and withdraw from the trial at any time.
Advantages of an Obesity Clinical Trial
For obesity trials in particular, there is often a life style component included. In other words, in addition to taking an investigational medication, there are helpful tools to assist you to change behaviors and prevent weight gain. There may also be sessions or phone calls with a dietitian, and support tools such as weight loss guides, tools for measuring food, videos and digital bodyweight scales.
In many cases, you will also get support from a dietitian who will help you make the right lifestyle choices that you need in order to lose weight. A dietitian can provide education about the food that fuels your body, and help you take easy steps for a healthier diet.
You will also often receive personalized care from a qualified physician who will oversee you during the entire trial process. This focus on your care may help you reach your goals of bettering your overall health.
Disadvantages of an Obesity Clinical Trial
While a clinical obesity trial may be a great help to you in your efforts to lose weight, it is possible that you may receive a placebo instead of the investigational medication.
Many participants believe that receiving the placebo means they will not see any weight loss. Thankfully, that doesn't have to be true! The educational resources and support tools that many clinical trials provide can help you move your lifestyle in the right direction to likely see some positive results in any scenario.
Another disadvantage of obesity clinical trials is the potential of not qualifying. If you do not pass the initial screening process for the trial, you may not qualify. This unfortunately may lead to some wasted time on your part, but patient safety and welfare is number one during a clinical trial.
Learn More
Overall, obesity clinical trials can be very valuable for helping you get on the right track to focus on your health, of which weight loss is one component. Changing your habits can be life altering in a valuable way.
To learn more about participating in an obesity clinical trial, please contact Chase Medical Research at (203) 419-4420, medical_research@chasemr.com, or click the button below.
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