Clinical trials are vital research studies that evaluate the safety and effectiveness of medical treatments, strategies, or devices in humans. They also help determine which approaches work best for specific conditions or patient groups. In rheumatology, we focus on applied and translational research to advance understanding and improve care for autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome, lupus, and others.
Clinical & Trial Discovery
1
Participants in clinical trials receive investigational medications at no cost, with no insurance required if eligible. These treatments are sponsored by pharmaceutical companies and are either FDA-approved or currently under review. In some cases, studies may compare an investigational drug to an approved one to gather more data on safety and effectiveness.
Trial Medication
2
During clinical trials, some participants receive the study medication—whether as pills, IV infusions, or injections—while others may be given a comparator drug or a placebo. A placebo looks like the real medication but contains no active ingredients and is used in some studies to measure how well the actual treatment works. However, most trials limit placebo use to early phases, and participants are typically transitioned to the active study medication once the sponsor has collected enough initial data—often within 3 to 6 months.
Trial Medication Process
3
Before joining a clinical trial, participants must provide informed consent. Once enrolled and qualified based on the study protocol, participants will attend regular clinic visits as outlined in the trial. At each appointment, they’ll be seen by both the Research Coordinator and their physician to ensure safety and monitor progress.
In the Trial Journey
4
PATIENT TRIALS
Texas Rheumatology Care, in collaboration with Trinity University Associates, Inc., has been advancing rheumatologic research through clinical trials for over a decade—committed to innovation, patient safety, and better treatment outcomes.
Your Choice.
Your Journey.
Fueling the future of care!
