Clinical trials are a vital aspect of bringing safe and effective consumer products to market, including skincare and supplements. Unfortunately, there are a number of prevalent misconceptions regarding clinical trials that might deter businesses from pursuing this critical step in the product development process. In this blog article, we'll look at some of these myths and how we are striving to dispel them here at Citruslabs.
Misconception #1: Clinical trials are only necessary for prescription drugs.
This is a prevalent misunderstanding that can deter consumer brands from performing scientific trials for their cosmetics or supplement items. Clinical trials are required for any product that makes health claims or promises to improve health in any way. This includes OTC skincare items as well as dietary supplements.
We collaborate with consumer brands to design and conduct clinical studies that are targeted to their individual product and aims. We can assist these companies in navigating the regulatory landscape and ensuring that their goods satisfy the highest safety and efficacy standards.
Misconception #2: Clinical trials are too expensive and time-consuming.
While it's true that clinical trials can be expensive and time-consuming, they are also an investment in the success of a product. By conducting clinical trials, companies can gather valuable data that can help them improve their products and differentiate themselves in a crowded market.
At our contract research organization, we work with consumer brands to design studies that are efficient and cost-effective, without sacrificing the quality of the data. We can help companies make informed decisions about which endpoints to measure and which patient populations to target, in order to maximize the impact of their clinical trials.
Misconception #3: Clinical trials are only necessary for new products.
Some consumer brands may assume that clinical studies are no longer required once a product has been on the market for a while. However, clinical trials are a continuous process, and corporations must constantly collect data to ensure that their products are safe and effective.
We can work with consumer brands to construct post-market surveillance studies to help them collect data on the long-term safety and efficacy of their goods. Companies can detect possible safety hazards early on and take action to remedy them before they become prevalent by performing this research.
Misconception #4: Clinical trials are only necessary for products that make bold claims.
Consumer brands may assume that only items with dramatic health claims, such as "cures acne in 24 hours," need clinical testing. Any product that makes a health claim, no matter how minor, should, nevertheless, go through clinical testing to guarantee that the claim is true and supported by data.
Our clinical trial organization can collaborate with consumer brands to produce studies that are particular to the health claims they are making. Companies that conduct these studies can ensure that their claims are supported by evidence and differentiate themselves from competitors who may not have undergone thorough testing.
Misconception #5: Clinical trials are only necessary for products that are ingested.
Some consumer brands may believe that only products that are ingested, such as dietary supplements, require clinical trials. However, clinical trials are necessary for any product that makes a health claim, including skincare products.
We work with consumer brands to design studies that are appropriate for their specific product type and each brand's individual needs whether they offer ingestable products or not. For example, for skincare products, we can design studies that measure improvements in skin texture, hydration, and tone, as well as any other health claims that the product makes.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, clinical trials are an essential part of bringing safe and effective consumer products, including skincare products and supplements, to market. Unfortunately, there are several common misconceptions about clinical trials that can discourage consumer brands from conducting these vital studies. At our contract research organization, we are working to address these misconceptions by offering tailored, efficient and cost-effective clinical research solutions for your consumer brand. By collaborating with our team, you can ensure that your products meet the highest standards of safety and efficacy, and stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Finally, it's worth noting that conducting clinical trials is not just an ethical obligation for companies; it's also a legal one. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as well as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) require clinical data to support health claims made on consumer products. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in costly fines, legal action, and irreparable damage to a company's reputation.
Want to create your own clinical trial?
Citruslabs provides a simple and affordable way to prove that your products actually work. At Citruslabs, we design a clinical trial that is right for you and your budget, so you can start sharing research-backed product claims without spending a fortune. We offer the cohesive planning and management required to conduct successful clinical trials, from start to finish. Ready to get started? Let's talk! You can contact us here.