Personal Benefits of COPD Clinical Trials

Early Access to New Treatments:

Participants often gain access to experimental therapies, such as novel medications, inhalers, or non-invasive interventions, that are not yet available to the public. These treatments may improve lung function and enhance quality of life.

Expert Medical Monitoring:

Clinical trials are overseen by pulmonologists and other healthcare professionals who provide regular assessments of participants’ respiratory health. This close monitoring ensures early detection of any complications.

Support for Symptom Management:

Many trials include lifestyle interventions, pulmonary rehabilitation, and educational resources that can empower participants to better manage their condition.

Financial Incentives:

Participants are often compensated for their time and travel expenses, making it a practical choice for those seeking advanced care while contributing to medical research.

Contributions to Medical Research and Public Health

Advancing COPD Treatments:

Clinical trials are essential for developing and evaluating new therapies, ranging from bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory drugs to cutting-edge biologics.

Understanding Disease Progression:

Trials provide valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms of COPD, helping researchers identify potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Shaping Preventive Strategies:

Studies focusing on early detection and prevention of COPD can inform public health strategies to reduce the burden of the disease.

Notable Companies and Organizations Conducting COPD Clinical Trials

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK):

GSK is a leader in respiratory health, conducting trials for medications like Trelegy Ellipta, a triple-combination inhaler designed to improve lung function and reduce exacerbations.

AstraZeneca:

AstraZeneca is actively researching biologics, such as tezepelumab, to address inflammation in COPD patients and reduce disease progression.

Boehringer Ingelheim:

Known for its expertise in respiratory care, Boehringer Ingelheim conducts trials on therapies like Spiolto Respimat and novel anti-inflammatory treatments.

Novartis:

Novartis is investigating new combinations of bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory agents to provide more effective relief for COPD symptoms.

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI):

NHLBI supports a variety of COPD-focused trials, including studies on pulmonary rehabilitation, oxygen therapy, and lifestyle interventions.

Considerations Before Participation

Before joining a COPD clinical trial, individuals should evaluate the following:

Eligibility Criteria:

Trials often have specific requirements related to age, smoking history, and lung function. It’s essential to confirm eligibility before applying.

Potential Risks and Benefits:

Discuss the trial’s potential outcomes and side effects with your healthcare provider and the research team to make an informed decision.

Time and Commitment:

Clinical trials may involve multiple visits, testing, and adherence to specific protocols. Understanding the time and effort required is crucial.

Compensation - How much could you get paid?

Compensation for participating in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) clinical trials in the United States varies based on factors such as the study's duration, complexity, and location. Participants may receive payments ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. For example:

In-Quest Medical Research offers compensation up to $700 for COPD clinical study participants.

Discovery Clinical Trials provides compensation up to $1,100 for eligible participants in their COPD studies.

Frontier Clinical Research offers compensation up to $2,370 for qualified participants in their COPD clinical studies.