Clinical trials, also known as research studies or patient studies, are essential in the fight against disease. They determine if new treatments are safe and effective and work better than current treatments.
Clinical studies help us find new ways to treat and learn about rheumatologic diseases. They are a vital tool in improving the quality of life for people during and after treatment.
When you take part in a rheumatology clinical study, you add to our knowledge and help improve care for future patients.
- The research team will explain all the study details, including potential benefits and risks.
- Each study is monitored to make sure it is as safe as possible, and your study records are kept private and confidential.
- Only the research team and your doctor or nurse will have access to your records.
- You can leave a study at any time for any reason.
- We have a number of rheumatology clinical studies at WashU.
- Learn more about other clinical studies at WashU
- The Volunteer for Health program supports patient-oriented research at WashU. Find more information and join the Research Participant Registry.
- What is the purpose of the study?
- What do I have to do?
- How long will the study last?
- What are the risks and side effects?
- Will it cost me anything?
- Will I receive money?
- Can I withdraw at any time?
- Will the study help me now?
The principal investigator is the doctor in charge of the clinical study. He or she prepares a plan–or protocol–for the study. The protocol explains what will be done
during the trial, including:
- The reason for doing the study
- Who is eligible for the study
- How drugs or treatments will be given, what dose and how often
- What medical tests will be done and how often
- What types of information will be collected
Current Rheumatology Clinical Studies
There are a number of current rheumatology-related clinical studies at WashU, spanning areas such as autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, novel therapeutics, optimization of existing treatments, and patient-centered outcomes. These studies aim not only to advance the understanding of complex rheumatic conditions at the biologic and molecular levels, but also to translate those discoveries into more effective, personalized care strategies that improve quality of life and long-term health for patients across diverse populations
For more information and whether or not you qualify for a study, please email our research coordinator: Rebecca Sweeny
Clinical study informational resources
There are clinical studies throughout the United States. Find more information about general clinical studies at the following resources:
- American College of Rheumatology Clinical Trials information in English and in Spanish
- View the National Institute of Health (NIH) listing of clinical trials throughout the world
- Visit the NIH general information page or check out the find a study tool
- The Lupus Foundation of America has a clinical trial matching online tool
- The Arthritis Foundation also has a trial finder tool