How To Earn Money in Paid Clinical Trial Participation

New healthcare treatments are being produced and tested all the time. When new medications approach the end of their research and development phase, human trials are part of the process. For anyone interested in making some extra money (and advancing medical science along the way), participating in clinical studies and trials can be a great opportunity.

These studies and trials will vary widely. In fact, there's a key difference between a clinical study and a clinical trial. We'll go over that in a minute. Regardless, you may be asked to test a new medication or use a new piece of medical technology. You may be asked to follow certain rules too, like certain dietary restrictions.

If you're looking to find some low risk medical trials with compensation attached, here's everything you need to know.

Are Clinical Trials Safe?
First and foremost, you should always consider your own health and wellbeing before you participate in any clinical study or trial. Luckily, all medical researchers in the United States must follow a strict set of protocols before any human testing is started.

Researchers will take every single precaution to ensure that these studies and trials are as safe as possible. They will also warn you of any potential side effects they might be aware of. There is also an Institutional Review Board that oversees and monitors these trials. If any unexpected danger emerges (or is even suspected), the trial will stop immediately.

Safety First
In short, these studies and trials are extremely safe. Obviously, no medical research company wants to face a lawsuit because they rushed something or cut corners. That being said, make sure you read and understand all the documentation you receive. And be honest when answering any questions about your health or family medical history.

In the end, there is no absolute guarantee of safety. You could have a bad reaction, like an unknown allergy. The treatment could produce an unexpected result, even if the chances of that happening are extremely slim. The bottom line is that you shouldn't put your health at risk to make a bit of extra money.

On the other hand, if you're otherwise fairly healthy and not too bothered by some possible low-grade side effects, studies and trials might be perfect for you.

The Difference Between a Clinical Study and a Clinical Trial
A clinical study is more about observation under a certain set of circumstances. For example, researchers may want you to change your diet or sleep patterns over a short period of time. Then they will observe, interview, and/or record any changes that you might exhibit.

A clinical trial, on the other hand, is a bit more in-depth. It typically involves test subjects trying out a new medication. Through a series of check-ups, interviews, and medical tests (over a period of weeks, months, or even years), researchers will be able to determine whether the trial medication works as intended.

Clinical trials generally require more of a physical presence from subjects. You may be required to attend frequent appointments or even stay overnight in labs or hotels.

How Much Do Clinical Trials Pay?
In general, clinical trials pay more than clinical studies. That's a result of trials being a bit more risky and time consuming, on average. Regardless, it's almost impossible to answer this question. Every study or trial has different requirements, different funding, and different compensation levels.

Some quick and easy clinical studies may only pay $20. On the other hand, longer term clinical trials that last months (or years) can pay thousands. However, the money is often paid in small installments as you complete certain phases. This incentivizes you to not drop out or miss appointments. Sometimes, payment won't be made until the study is officially completed.

If you do consider joining a study or trial, ensure you know exactly what the compensation is, what you have to do in order to receive it, and when it's paid out.

How To Sign Up For Clinical Studies and Trials
The first place you should look for clinical studies or trials in your area is ClinicalTrials.gov. That's the official government website listing all approved trials. You can search by geographic area or by topic.

There may be other, smaller studies in your own local area. Do a Google search for medical research facilities near your home. Most of them will have their own websites, which will likely list all current and upcoming studies or trials.