How to compare clinical trial listings

A trial listing is a summary to help you decide whether to ask for more information. It is not the full study plan, medical advice or confirmation that a study is right for you. Listings can differ in detail and may not be updated at the same time.

Check who maintains the listing, when it was last updated and whether it says the study is recruiting at a location you could reach. If the status is unclear, ask the research site or check the relevant official trial registry. A listing alone cannot confirm that a site still has places.

Compare the study's purpose, condition, phase, locations and the broad description of who may take part. Inclusion and exclusion criteria can be detailed, and short summaries may leave out important information. The research team confirms eligibility using the current protocol and any checks the study requires.

Look for practical details such as the expected length of participation, visit schedule, tests or procedures, and whether the study compares different treatments or includes a placebo. If these details are missing, ask the site rather than filling in the gaps yourself. The trial phase can help explain what a study is designed to learn, but it does not predict an individual result.

Before sharing personal or health information, make sure you are contacting the research team or an organisation involved in the study and understand how your details will be used. You can compare listings and prepare questions, then discuss medical considerations with your usual health professional and the study team. Use this guide alongside a checklist of questions to ask before joining.