What should I expect during each stage of the process? 
Clinical trials are research studies that help doctors and scientists find new ways to improve health and treat diseases. Here is an easy-to-understand guide to what happens during each stage of a clinical trial:

1. Screening

Before you join a clinical trial, you’ll go through a screening process to see if the study is a good fit for you. This includes answering questions about your health, lifestyle, and medical history. You may also need to complete some tests, like blood work or physical exams. Screening often involves specific liver function tests (like ALT, AST, or bilirubin levels) to ensure you meet the trial’s requirements.

2. Enrollment

If you qualify for the trial, you will review and sign an informed consent form before enrolling. Informed consent means you’ll receive detailed information about the study, including its purpose, procedures, risks, and benefits, so you can decide if you want to participate. Remember, participation is voluntary, and you can leave the study at any time. Enrollment may provide access to cutting-edge treatments targeting liver diseases like hepatitis, cirrhosis, or Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)

3. Participation

Once enrolled, you will follow the study’s procedures. This might include taking medication, attending regular visits, or undergoing tests and treatments. You’ll be closely monitored by the research team to ensure your safety and track how you respond to the study treatment. Participation may involve dietary monitoring, medication adherence (taking your medication as you’ve been told), or imaging tests (like ultrasounds) to evaluate liver health. Depending on the study design, you may also be randomized into different treatment groups, meaning you will be assigned to a specific intervention by chance, similar to flipping a coin, to ensure unbiased results.

4. Follow-Up

After the study ends, the research team may continue to check in with you. Follow-up ensures that any long-term effects or benefits of the treatment are tracked. Follow-up can provide valuable insights into how treatments affect liver function over time, improving overall care.

What is a placebo or standard care? 

In some trials, participants may receive a placebo, which looks like the treatment but doesn’t contain active ingredients. This helps researchers see how effective the real treatment is. If you don’t get the new treatment, you might still receive standard care, which is the best available treatment for your condition. Many trials compare new therapies against current treatments for liver disease, ensuring you’ll still receive high-quality care.

Are there clinical trials for liver patients?

Clinical trials focusing on liver disease include treatments for conditions like metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), hepatitis C, primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) or liver cancer. New therapies may aim to reduce liver scarring, improve liver function, or manage symptoms like fatigue and pain. Here are some ways to find a trial that might be right for you: 

• Check with your doctor 
• Contact research centers 
• Our Search Tool can help you find recruiting clinical trials by your condition

What if I have more questions?

Clinical trials are designed to prioritize your safety and comfort. If you have any questions, the research team is there to help. Participating in a clinical trial is an important decision. Understanding the process can help you feel confident about your choice.

Is a clinical trial right for me?
Every trial has specific eligibility criteria. Speak with your doctor and the clinical study team to determine if joining aligns with your health needs and lifestyle. Our Guide can help you ask important questions before signing up. Your decision to join is entirely voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time.

How can I find a clinical trial near me?

The Wellness League's Search Tool is a free resource that can be used to find clinical trials actively recruiting in your community. Simply search by a condition and then the type of study. Check out our blog on how to use the Tool. Scroll to the bottom of the page to watch our how-to video or download the printable guide.