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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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Metrics That Matter in CPG Marketing
When consumer preferences shift rapidly and competition is fierce, the brands that rise to the top are those that harness the power of data to craft smarter, more impactful marketing strategies. With countless marketing strategies and tactics available, it's crucial to track the right metrics that provide valuable insights into performance and areas for improvement. This post will highlight the key CPG marketing metrics that every brand should focus on to drive growth and en
Ben Brockman
1 day ago5 min read


In Silico Testing in Clinical Trials: A High-Level Overview
In the fast-evolving world of product development, in silico testing is emerging as a powerful and innovative tool. By leveraging advanced computer simulations and modeling, this method is transforming how brands in industries like cosmetics, skincare, supplements, superfoods, and pet health validate their products. Here’s a high-level overview of what in silico testing is, its benefits, applications, and why it’s gaining momentum in clinical trials. What is In Silico Testing
Ben Brockman
3 days ago4 min read


The Economic Impact of False Advertising
False advertising is often discussed as a legal or ethical issue. But for brands, the bigger story is economic. Misleading or unsubstantiated claims can quietly drain revenue, inflate costs, and limit long-term growth, even when no lawsuit ever happens. This article explains the real financial impact of false advertising, how those costs show up across a business, and when investing in evidence can help brands avoid expensive mistakes. False advertising negatively impacts th
Ben Brockman
Jan 304 min read


Real-World Data vs. Real-World Evidence: Understanding the Difference
Real-world data and real-world evidence come up constantly in conversations about product validation, clinical studies, and regulatory strategy. They sound similar, and they are closely related, but they are not interchangeable. Understanding the difference matters if you are deciding how to support a product claim, design a study, or communicate credibility to regulators, partners, or consumers. This article explains what each term means, how they connect, and when brands ac
Ben Brockman
Jan 233 min read


How to Avoid Participant Dropouts in Clinical Trials
Participant dropouts are one of the most common and costly challenges in clinical trials. When participants leave a study early, timelines slip, data quality suffers, and results can become harder to interpret. Dropouts in clinical trials happen when participants discontinue a study before completion, often due to burden, confusion, lack of engagement, or unmet expectations. You can reduce dropouts by designing participant-friendly protocols, setting clear expectations, maint
Ben Brockman
Jan 193 min read


What Are Adverse Events in Clinical Trials?
When conducting clinical trials, especially in the health and wellness space, it's vital to understand the concept of an "adverse event." These occurrences play a crucial role in trial evaluations, regulatory compliance, and the overall credibility of your brand. Whether you're testing a new skincare product, dietary supplement, or pet health solution, understanding adverse events can help you navigate clinical trials successfully. What Is an Adverse Event in Clinical Trials?
Ben Brockman
Jan 143 min read


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
Jan 53 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
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