Clinical trials for medications proceed through four phases:

In Phase I clinical trials, researchers test a new medication or treatment in a small group of people (20-80) for the first time to evaluate its safety, determine a safe dosage range, and identify side effects.

In Phase II clinical trials, the study medication or treatment is given to a larger group of people (100-300) to see if it is effective and to further evaluate its safety.

In Phase III studies, the study medication or treatment is given to large groups of people (1,000-3,000) to confirm its effectiveness, monitor side effects, compare it to commonly used treatments, and collect information that will allow the drug or treatment to be used safely.

Phase IV studies are done after the medication or treatment has been marketed. They collect information about the effect of the treatment in various populations and side effects associated with long-term use.

No. Qualified participants never pay for care related to the study. All study-related medications, doctor visits, and health monitoring are provided at no cost. You do not need health insurance to join.

Yes. Most clinical trials offer compensation to cover your time and travel expenses for each clinic visit. The specific amount varies by study, and details will be fully disclosed to you before you sign any consent forms.

It depends on the specific study protocol. Some studies compare a new treatment against a placebo, while others compare it against an existing standard medication. However, you will always be informed of the probability of receiving a placebo (e.g., "2 out of 3 patients receive the active medication") during the informed consent process.

Patient safety is the top priority. All studies in our network are regulated by the FDA and monitored by an Independent Review Board (IRB) to ensure ethical standards are met. You will be under the close supervision of top board certified physicians who monitor your health throughout the entire process.

Absolutely. Participation is 100% voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from a clinical trial at any time, for any reason, with no penalty to your future medical care.

Yes. Echelon Studies and our partner clinics adhere to strict protocols and regulations. Your personal information is only shared with the specific medical staff evaluating your eligibility. We do not sell your medical data to advertisers.

Clinical trials are important because they are the foundation for ensuring that medical treatments are safe, effective, and appropriate for real patients. Without them, medicine would rely on assumptions rather than evidence.

One of the most important reasons for participating in a clinical trial is the knowledge that you are contributing to the development of new treatments for people who suffer from the same condition you have.

Clinical trials transform scientific discovery into reliable, real-world medical solutions. They are essential for protecting patients, guiding clinicians, and advancing healthcare responsibly and ethically.

The government has strict guidelines and safeguards to protect people who choose to participate in clinical trials. Every clinical trial in the United States must be approved and monitored by an Institutional Review Board (IRB) to make sure the risks are as low as possible and are worth any potential benefits. The IRB members are neutral reviewers who ensure that the study is conducted fairly.

In addition, if you are considering joining a clinical trial, the research staff will give you informed consent documents which describe the study, including the nature of the study, the risks involved, and what may happen to you during the study. The informed consent also explains that you have a right to leave the study at any time. You may want to take these forms home and discuss them with your family or health care provider. You should feel free to ask the research team any questions before, during, or after the study. You may leave the clinical trial at any time. However, let the research team know why you are leaving because it may impact on others in the study.

Before you join a clinical trial, you must qualify for the study; this decision is based on factors such as age, type of dependence, medical history, and current medical condition. These criteria help ensure that researchers will be able to answer the questions they plan to study. At the beginning of your participation, a team of researchers and health care providers will check your health and give you instructions about your responsibilities. They will also monitor you during the study and stay in touch with you after the study. Some trials involve more tests and visits than you would normally have for your condition. Your cooperation is needed in order for you to complete the study safely.