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Things you didn’t know required a clinical trial

Things you didn’t know required a clinical trial

  • Sunscreen: The effectiveness and safety of sunscreen products, including their ability to protect skin from harmful UV rays and prevent skin cancer, are extensively tested through clinical trials. These trials help determine the SPF rating and ensure that the product doesn't cause adverse skin reactions for most users.

  • Contact Lenses and Solutions: Contact lenses and the solutions used to clean and store them undergo clinical trials to ensure they are safe for eye health, do not cause infections, and correct vision as intended.

  • Over-the-Counter Medications: Common over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen), cold and flu remedies, and antacids, have all been through clinical trials to test their efficacy and safety for managing symptoms and conditions.

  • Toothpaste and Oral Hygiene Products: Toothpaste, especially types that claim to whiten teeth, reduce sensitivity, or improve gum health, often undergoes clinical trials to verify these claims and ensure the products are safe for long-term use in oral care.

  • Dietary Supplements: While the regulation and testing of dietary supplements can vary widely and may not always be as stringent as pharmaceuticals, many reputable manufacturers conduct clinical trials to support the health benefits they claim, such as improving joint health or boosting the immune system.

  • Cosmetics with Active Ingredients: Certain cosmetics, particularly those with active ingredients claiming anti-aging, moisturizing, or other skin benefits, might undergo clinical trials to substantiate these claims and ensure they are safe for skin use.

  • Nutritional Products: Specialized nutritional products, such as infant formula or meal replacement shakes, undergo clinical trials to ensure they meet nutritional needs and are safe for consumption by their target audiences.

  • Fitness Devices: Wearable fitness devices that claim to monitor health metrics such as heart rate, sleep quality, or physical activity levels may undergo user testing and trials to validate their accuracy and reliability.


Remember, it's always important to discuss with your healthcare provider before deciding to participate in a clinical trial. They can help you understand if a particular trial is a good fit for your health needs and circumstances.