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Clinical trials and Research Blog
The Citruslabs blog covers all things clinical trial patient recruitment and retention as well as exciting news and developments in the medical research industry. Browse our recent posts or search for a topic you're interested in to learn more.
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The Power of the P-Value in Clinical Trials
In today’s wellness and beauty markets, science sells, but only when it’s credible. With phrases like clinically tested and scientifically proven flooding product packaging, savvy consumers and regulators are asking the same question: Where’s the data? One key number that often makes or breaks the credibility of a clinical trial is the p-value. Whether you’re launching a new supplement, skincare serum, or pet health product, understanding how p-values work, and what they actu
Ben Brockman
2 days ago3 min read


The Ethics Behind Informed Consent Forms
When it comes to clinical trials, participants need to know exactly what they're signing up for, and brands must uphold transparency to build credibility. This is where the informed consent form becomes a cornerstone of ethical research. Far more than just paperwork, it’s a vital communication tool that protects both participants and the integrity of your clinical trial. What is an Informed Consent Form? An informed consent form (ICF) is a legal and ethical document provided
Ben Brockman
Dec 26, 20253 min read


What Is Statistical Significance in Clinical Research?
In an industry overflowing with bold claims and buzzwords, statistical significance is one of the few tools that can truly separate credible brands from the crowd. For health and wellness categories, clinical research isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity. But not all research is created equal. The difference between “nice to have” results and real, marketable proof often comes down to whether your findings are statistically significant. Let’s dive into what that actually mea
Ben Brockman
Dec 22, 20253 min read


What Does NSF Certified Really Mean?
There’s a tiny mark that speaks volumes. It’s not flashy. It doesn’t shout. But to savvy consumers, “NSF certified” is a silent stamp of approval, an assurance that what they’re buying is clean, tested, and trustworthy. In an era where wellness brands are under the microscope, NSF certification is more than just a badge, it’s a business advantage. Whether you’re creating a plant-based protein, an organic skincare serum, or a calming supplement for pets, earning NSF certificat
Ben Brockman
Dec 15, 20254 min read


The Science Behind Ingredient Verification
Imagine this: a beautifully branded skincare serum promises visible results in 7 days. The label lists high-potency botanical actives, but a quick lab test reveals only trace amounts, or worse, substitutions. The product might still smell nice and feel luxurious, but the trust? Gone. This isn’t a rare case, it’s an everyday risk in today’s fast-moving wellness, supplement, and beauty markets. That’s where ingredient verification comes in. It’s more than a checkbox on a compl
Ben Brockman
Dec 12, 20254 min read


How to Build Better Label Claims with Data
Ever stared at a bottle of face serum or a jar of pet supplements and thought, “Can it really do all that?” You're not alone, and your customers are asking the same thing. These bold promises, known as label claims, are the billboard of your brand. They tell shoppers what to expect, why your product is special, and why they should trust you with their skin, health, or pets. But here’s the truth: catchy claims are only half the battle. The real magic? Being able to prove them
Ben Brockman
Dec 10, 20254 min read


The Hidden Cost of Clickbait Advertising for Wellness Brands
Clickbait isn’t just a nuisance, it’s a branding liability. In the health and wellness space, where trust is everything, misleading ad tactics can backfire fast. While flashy headlines might promise “miracle cures” or “instant transformations,” today’s consumers are more skeptical, and more informed, than ever. They crave authenticity and science-backed claims, not smoke and mirrors. If your brand is using clickbait to stand out, it might be time to rethink that strategy. Wha
Ben Brockman
Dec 8, 20254 min read


How the Placebo Effect Shapes Product Performance
The placebo effect is a fascinating psychological phenomenon that has profound implications for how we perceive the effectiveness of products. While it’s commonly associated with medical trials, the placebo effect extends well beyond pharmaceuticals and has significant relevance in industries like skincare, supplements, cosmetics, and even pet health. Understanding this effect can help brands design better products, conduct more meaningful clinical trials, and market their o
Ben Brockman
Nov 14, 20254 min read


Why Good Manufacturing Practices are The Gold Standard for Product Safety
Imagine buying a skincare serum that claims to be "all-natural," only to find out it’s contaminated with harmful bacteria. Or a dietary supplement that promises high potency but delivers inconsistent results with each bottle. These are the kinds of risks Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) aim to eliminate. GMP guidelines ensure that products (whether supplements, cosmetics, or skincare) are manufactured under strict quality control measures, reducing the chances of contaminat
Ben Brockman
Nov 12, 20254 min read


Mastering the Art of Brand Messaging
When every scroll, click, and conversation is a competition for attention, brands don’t just need to speak, they need to resonate. That’s where brand messaging steps in. It’s not just about catchy slogans or trendy buzzwords; it’s about creating a memorable identity that connects emotionally with your audience. Whether you’re a wellness startup or a legacy skincare brand, the way you communicate your value can be the difference between being remembered, or completely overloo
Ben Brockman
Nov 10, 20254 min read


How Telehealth is Revolutionizing Decentralized Clinical Trials
Decentralized clinical trials are redefining how research is conducted, bringing participation directly to people’s homes, and breaking down the traditional barriers of location, time, and access. At the heart of this transformation is telehealth: a powerful enabler of remote communication, monitoring, and data collection. In this article, we explore how telehealth is reshaping clinical trials, highlight its benefits and challenges, and examine what the future holds for this
Ben Brockman
Nov 7, 20254 min read


How Social Listening Is Transforming Clinical Trials
In an era where consumer opinions are shared instantly across social media, forums, and review platforms, social listening has become a vital tool for brands in the wellness and personal care space. Whether you’re launching a new probiotic supplement, developing a skincare serum, or innovating in pet nutrition, tapping into the voice of the customer is no longer optional, it’s essential. But beyond marketing, did you know that social listening can actually enhance how clinica
Ben Brockman
Nov 3, 20253 min read


The Role of Clinical Research Coordinators in Research Studies
Behind every well-run clinical trial is a skilled professional ensuring each step stays on track: the clinical research coordinator. These individuals are essential to the smooth and ethical operation of trials, managing everything from participant recruitment to regulatory compliance. Whether a trial is testing a new nutritional intervention, a medical device, or any product, clinical research coordinators are the ones translating complex protocols into well-executed studies
Ben Brockman
Oct 29, 20253 min read


How Consumer Insights Are Reshaping Clinical Trials
Ever wonder why some wellness brands feel like they just get you? It’s not luck, it’s consumer insights. From supplements and skincare to pet health, the smartest brands are rethinking how they run clinical trials by listening to the voices that matter most: their customers. When real-world experiences meet scientific validation, innovation happens. But what exactly are consumer insights? And how are they driving innovation for clinical trials in the health and wellness space
Ben Brockman
Oct 27, 20254 min read


Why Your Clinical Trial Depends on Patient Retention
In the world of clinical research patient retention is one of the most vital yet overlooked components of study success. Recruiting participants is just the beginning. Keeping them engaged, compliant, and enrolled through the study? That’s where the real challenge lies. High dropout rates don’t just compromise your data integrity; they also cost time, money, and brand credibility. So, how can wellness and consumer health brands ensure that participants stay the course? Let’s
Ben Brockman
Oct 22, 20253 min read


How to Boost Site Engagement in Clinical Trials
Site engagement in clinical trials isn't just a buzzword, it’s the backbone of trial success. For sponsors and CROs, maintaining strong, collaborative relationships with sites is essential for maximizing patient recruitment, retention, and data quality. Now, with decentralized clinical trials (DCTs) and digital solutions on the rise, the landscape of site engagement is rapidly evolving. Let’s explore how technology and strategic collaboration can reinvent how sponsors and si
Ben Brockman
Oct 15, 20253 min read


What Is a Feasibility Study in Clinical Trials
Before you ever recruit a participant or collect a data point, there’s one critical step that sets your clinical trial up for success:...
Ben Brockman
Oct 13, 20253 min read


How to Run Effective Pediatric Clinical Trials
Pediatric clinical trials play a critical role in ensuring that medications, supplements, and treatments are safe and effective for...
Ben Brockman
Oct 1, 20253 min read


Using Statistical Significance to Back Up Your Product Claims
If you've ever seen a product claim like “Clinically proven to reduce wrinkles by 30%”, you may have wondered, how do they know that?...
Ben Brockman
Sep 22, 20253 min read


The Role of Biomarkers in Enhancing Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are essential for validating the safety and efficacy of a product before it reaches the market. Whether it’s a skincare...
Ben Brockman
Sep 12, 20254 min read
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