When you think of clinical trials, you likely picture research done on people. But, just like us, animals can be afflicted with a variety of health issues, and clinical trials are conducted to test out the safety and efficacy of pet products. Clinical trials for pets may be for any number of conditions, such as diabetes, depression, or canine/feline-specific issues.
How do they work?
Clinical trials for pet products work similarly to those for human products, they follow the same structure as any other research study in order to put an experimental treatment to the test. Clinical studies for pet products will be tailored to their size, age, and breed and are just as rigorously tested before use in pets as they are for people, to ensure the comfort and safety of the animals involved.
Clinical trials for pet products are only conducted once a veterinarian or researcher has enough evidence to believe a new treatment will be beneficial to a given animal. They are not conducted any less meticulously than clinical trials that you might be eligible for.
What are the benefits?
If your pet has been diagnosed with a chronic illness or severe disease, such as cancer, your vet may suggest that you enroll them in a clinical trial. These studies give your pet the chance to try a treatment that may be more beneficial to them than what is already available to the public. Some trials are also free or cost much less than a traditional treatment route.
Your pet’s participation also helps to advance medical science and can save or improve the life of your pet, or the lives of others with the same condition down the line. You and your pet will be helping veterinary science to find cures, treatments, and preventions to the diseases affecting animals.
What are the risks?
As is the case for any medical treatment, there is a chance that your pet may react badly to a medication. Otherwise, there can be unknown side effects that come to light during the clinical trial.
However, it’s important to remember that just like a human clinical trial, you and your pet can withdraw at any time during the process. Additionally, your vet and research team will monitor your pet’s progress and watch closely for any subtle signs of negative reactions to the trial treatment, so they can act quickly to resolve any discomfort or negative effects.
Interested in creating your own pet product clinical study?
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 that 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.