Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ClinicalTrialsFinder and clinical trials
About This Site
What is ClinicalTrialsFinder.org?
ClinicalTrialsFinder.org is a free search engine that helps patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals find clinical trials that are actively recruiting participants. We aggregate data from official registries like ClinicalTrials.gov and ANZCTR and present it in a clear, accessible format.
How is this different from ClinicalTrials.gov?
ClinicalTrials.gov is the official U.S. government registry maintained by the National Library of Medicine. It contains comprehensive but highly technical information designed for researchers. ClinicalTrialsFinder.org uses the same underlying data but presents it with plain-language summaries, simplified search filters, location-based results, and screening questionnaires to help non-researchers understand and evaluate trials more easily.
Is ClinicalTrialsFinder free to use?
Yes. ClinicalTrialsFinder is completely free for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. We are not funded by pharmaceutical companies and do not charge for access to trial information.
Who built this site?
ClinicalTrialsFinder was built by an independent team passionate about making clinical trial information accessible to everyone. We are not affiliated with any pharmaceutical company, hospital, or government agency.
How often is the trial data updated?
Our database is synced regularly with ClinicalTrials.gov and ANZCTR to capture new studies, status changes, and updated eligibility criteria. Most updates are reflected within 24-48 hours of being posted to the source registries.
Using the Search
How do I search for trials?
Use the search bar on the homepage or the search page to enter a condition name (e.g., "breast cancer", "type 2 diabetes"). You can also browse by condition, location, institution, or drug. The search supports filters for trial phase, study type, participant sex, age, and recruitment status.
Can I search by location?
Yes. You can enter your city or postcode and a radius (in miles) to find trials near you. Results will be sorted by distance. You can also browse trials by country or state.
What do the trial phases mean?
Phase 1 trials test safety and dosing in small groups (20-80 people). Phase 2 trials test effectiveness in larger groups (100-300). Phase 3 trials confirm effectiveness in large groups (1,000-3,000+) and are used for regulatory approval. Phase 4 trials study treatments that are already approved. See our guide on clinical trial phases for more detail.
What does "recruiting" status mean?
A trial with "Recruiting" status is actively looking for new participants. "Not Yet Recruiting" means the trial has been registered but has not started enrolling. "Active, Not Recruiting" means the trial is underway but is no longer accepting new participants.
Screening & Alerts
What is the screening questionnaire?
Some trials on our site include a screening questionnaire that asks simple questions about your age, diagnosis, and medical history to help you estimate whether you might meet the trial's eligibility criteria. This is a preliminary tool only — it cannot replace the formal screening process conducted by the research team.
How do email alerts work?
You can subscribe to weekly email alerts by providing your email address and selecting conditions you are interested in. Each week, we send a summary of newly posted trials matching your criteria. You can unsubscribe at any time using the link in the email.
Will you share my email address?
No. We do not sell, rent, or share your email address with any third party. Your email is used solely to send you trial alerts and is stored securely. See our privacy policy for full details.
Clinical Trials in General
Are clinical trials safe?
Clinical trials have multiple safety protections including ethics committee review, informed consent, ongoing monitoring by data safety boards, and government oversight by agencies like the FDA and TGA. However, all medical treatments carry some risk, and investigational treatments may have unknown side effects. The consent process ensures you understand the risks before participating.
Do I have to pay to participate in a clinical trial?
In most trials, the investigational treatment and study-related tests are provided at no cost. Some trials also reimburse participants for travel expenses. Routine medical care that you would need regardless of the trial may still be billed to your insurance.
Can I leave a clinical trial once I have joined?
Yes. Participation is voluntary and you can withdraw at any time for any reason without penalty. Your standard medical care will not be affected.
How do I talk to my doctor about clinical trials?
Bring the trial information to your appointment and ask whether the study could be appropriate for your situation. You might say: "I found this clinical trial and wanted to discuss whether it could be an option for me." Most doctors welcome patients who take an active role in exploring treatment options. See our guide on questions to ask your doctor.
Still have questions?
Check our guides for in-depth information or get in touch.