Admission News Budgeting Going to College

Things to Keep in Mind When Signing Up for a Clinical Trial

Written by CB Community

Participating in clinical trials has become a common practice these days, especially among college students.

After all, you can make some money, so why not participate in a thing which is being done for the well-being of mankind?

Most of the people say that they aren’t into clinical trials for money, but to help others and make a difference in the world of science, and that’s a very positive approach.

Many participants in the clinical trials already have an illness, and they take part in it in the hope of getting new and advanced treatment.

Whatever the reason may be for the participation, you need first to qualify for clinical trials to be a part of them. 

After going through the long questionnaire and other related tests, if you qualify, you’ll be asked to sign a certain number of forms.

However, there are a certain number of things that you should keep in mind when signing up for the clinical trial. Read them below:

Consider the Risks

In a clinical trial, the research staff will be trying on new medicines and formulas on you in the hope of finding a new treatment for certain conditions by observing the effect they have on your body.

Let it be clear that the formulas are new, and the side effects can range from normal to even life-threatening. The researchers already know that so if you go through any injury during the trials you’ll be paid compensation for that.

Moreover, the health care facilities will provide you with all the care you require to heal, in case something unfortunate happens.

Just keep in mind that clinical trials are risky. You can’t just expect them to go all good just because you have leading health care facilities by your side.

As a college student, you may want to consider the time you may miss from classes if you suffer an adverse effect.

Read Carefully Before Signing Anything

Once you qualify for the clinical trials, the health care facility will provide you with a consent document but many participants don’t even bother to read it properly.

The document basically explains in detail the main purpose of why the study is being carried out and the possible risks and benefits of it.

Your life depends on that document in a way; therefore, read it thoroughly before signing up for a clinical trial.

How Much You’ll Get Paid

Your pay entirely depends on how much the formula has already been tested previously and the part of the body it is being tested for.

From the four types of trials (Phase 1-Phase 4), you will likely be paid more for phase 1 because it’s the earliest. The effects at this phase are least understood.

The part of the body the formula is being tested for matters a lot, for e.g., you’ll be paid more for neurology as compared to the formulas being tested for liver problems.

The most paid areas are cardiovascular diseases, blood disorders, and endocrine, etc.

Clinical Trials for College Students

The college years are a notoriously difficult time to earn extra income while studying. If part-time jobs and side hustles aren’t feasible, you can consider participating in clinical trials to make some cash.

Just keep the above considerations in mind to ensure that your experience is safe and worth your while.

About the author

CB Community

Passionate members of the College Basics community that include students, essay writers, consultants and beyond. Please note, while community content has passed our editorial guidelines, we do not endorse any product or service contained in these articles which may also include links for which College Basics is compensated.