Living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis (UC) – the two main types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) – can be challenging, unpredictable, and exhausting. Between flare-ups, strict medication schedules, and lifestyle adjustments, patients often feel like they are constantly managing their condition rather than living freely.

While there have been significant advancements in IBD treatment over the last two decades, not every patient responds well to the currently available therapies. Some struggle with side effects, while others eventually stop responding to medications that once worked.

This is where clinical trials come in. Clinical trials are research studies that explore new ways to prevent, diagnose, or treat diseases like Crohn’s and UC. They offer patients a chance to try promising new therapies before they are widely available, while also helping advance medical research for future generations.

If you’ve ever wondered whether a clinical trial could be the right next step in your IBD journey, here are five compelling reasons to consider participating.

 

1.  Access to Cutting-Edge Treatments Before They’re Available to the Public

One of the biggest advantages of joining a clinical trial is the opportunity to receive innovative therapies years before they become available through your doctor or local pharmacy.

Clinical trials test new medications, treatment combinations, and even novel approaches like precision medicine targeting specific immune pathways. For patients who have tried multiple biologics, immunosuppressants, or steroids without lasting relief, these investigational treatments may provide hope for better outcomes.

For example, some current IBD trials are testing:

• Next-generation biologics that target different immune system pathways than existing drugs.
• Small molecule therapies taken orally rather than through injections or infusions.

Participating in a clinical trial means you could benefit from these advances right now, potentially reducing flare-ups, achieving remission, or improving your quality of life faster than waiting for approval.

 

 

 2.  Comprehensive and Personalized Medical Care

Clinical trials don’t just give you access to new treatments — they often provide next-level medical care and monitoring.

When you join a study, you are cared for by a dedicated team of specialists, including gastroenterologists, nurses, and research coordinators who follow strict protocols to ensure your safety. You may receive:

• Frequent health check-ups including lab tests, imaging, or colonoscopies to closely monitor disease activity.
• Early detection of complications thanks to the regular and thorough assessments required by the study protocol.
• Personalized treatment adjustments based on how you respond to therapy.

This level of attention often goes beyond what patients receive in a standard clinical setting. Many participants report feeling more supported and informed about their condition after joining a trial.

 

3.  Helping Advance Medical Research and Shape the Future of IBD Treatment

Every clinical trial is a step toward better treatments — and possibly a cure — for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

When you join a trial, you’re contributing to medical breakthroughs that can help millions of other IBD patients in the future. The data collected from your participation helps researchers:

• Understand which therapies work best for certain patients.
• Identify new biomarkers and predictors of treatment response.
• Develop safer, more effective medications with fewer side effects.

Many of today’s most effective IBD treatments — including biologics like infliximab and adalimumab — were made possible because patients volunteered for clinical trials in the past.

By participating, you become part of that progress and play a direct role in improving the lives of future patients.

 

 

4.  Potential Cost Savings on Treatments and Tests

Living with IBD can be expensive, especially when it comes to biologic treatments, diagnostic tests, and hospital visits during flares. One of the often-overlooked benefits of clinical trials is that the costs associated with the investigational treatment, lab work, and study visits are typically covered by the trial sponsor.

This can significantly reduce the financial burden for patients, particularly those without comprehensive insurance coverage. Some trials also offer:

• Travel stipends to cover transportation costs.
• Compensation for time and participation.

While cost savings should never be the only reason to participate in a trial, it can be a meaningful added benefit for many patients and families.

 

 5.  Exploring New Treatment Options When Standard Care Isn’t Enough

For some patients, standard IBD therapies just don’t work well enough — or stop working overtime. This can lead to cycles of steroids, repeated hospital stays, or even surgery.

Clinical trials offer hope when it feels like other options have run out. Many trials are specifically designed for patients with refractory IBD, meaning those who have failed one or more standard treatments.

In addition, some trials explore non-drug interventions such as dietary therapies, stress reduction programs, and gut health optimization strategies. These studies can provide valuable insights into how lifestyle and environment influence disease progression, giving you a more holistic approach to care.

 

Addressing Common Concerns About Clinical Trials

It’s natural to have questions or concerns about participating in research. Here are some of the most common worries patients have — and why they shouldn’t hold you back:

“What if I get a placebo?”

Not all trials use placebos, and in most cases, patients still receive standard care even if they are in the control group. Many studies use “add-on” designs, meaning you continue your current therapy and add the investigational treatment or placebo on top.

“Are clinical trials safe?”

Clinical trials follow strict ethical and safety standards, including review by independent ethics committees and continuous monitoring by data safety boards. You’ll be informed of all known risks before joining and have the right to withdraw at any time.

“Will this interfere with my regular care?”

Most clinical trial sites coordinate closely with your gastroenterologist to ensure continuity of care. In fact, many patients find they receive better care thanks to the extra monitoring.

 

 

How to Find a Clinical Trial for Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis

 

If you’re ready to explore clinical trials, here’s where to start:

• Talk to your gastroenterologist They can recommend appropriate trials based on your disease history.
• Search reputable databases. Websites like ClinicalTrials.gov or local research organizations list available studies.
• Connect with research centers. If you are in South Africa, Spoke Research is actively enrolling patients for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis trials.

 

Conclusion: Is a Clinical Trial Right for You?

Participating in a clinical trial is a personal decision, but for many patients with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, it can be a turning point in their journey.

From gaining access to promising new treatments to receiving specialized care and contributing to research, the benefits can be life changing. While there are risks and time commitments to consider, the potential to find relief and help shape the future of IBD treatment is a powerful motivator.

If your current treatment isn’t working as well as you’d like — or if you simply want to be part of something bigger — exploring a clinical trial might be the next best step.

👉 Take Action Today: Speak with your gastroenterologist or visit Spoke Research to learn about ongoing IBD trials near you. Your participation could be the key to improving not just your own health, but the lives of countless others living with IBD.

 

 

✅ Ready to Learn More?

 

📞 Interested in Participating in a Clinical Trial?

Dr. Gosia George and Dr. Eduan Deetlefs lead local IBD clinical trials at Spoke Research Inc.
Since 2017, they’ve helped countless patients access innovative treatments and expert care.

👉 Apply for a Crohn’s Disease Trial
👉 Apply for an Ulcerative Colitis Trial

Visit www.spokeresearch.co.za  or call 021 531 6402 to learn more and take the first step toward better gut health this winter.

 

✅ Contact the Experts at Spoke Research:

📞 Ready to Learn More?
💻 www.spokeresearch.co.za
📧 info@spokeresearch.co.za

Be part of something bigger. Join the fight against IBD—and help shape the future of care.