Every clinical trial has a specific set of inclusion and exclusion criteria, the rules that determine who can and cannot participate. Understanding how this works will help you know what to expect.
What Are Inclusion Criteria?
Inclusion criteria are characteristics a participant must have to join a study. Common examples include:
- A specific diagnosis (such as moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis)
- An age range (such as 18 to 65 years old)
- A certain disease severity (such as an EASI score above a specific threshold)
What Are Exclusion Criteria?
Exclusion criteria are characteristics that would prevent someone from participating. Common examples:
- Certain other medical conditions
- Specific medications that might interact with the study drug
- Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant
- Prior use of a similar investigational treatment
Why Are These Criteria So Strict?
Eligibility criteria are designed to protect participant safety and ensure that the study results are accurate. If participants have too many variables, it becomes difficult to know whether the treatment is working.
What Does the Screening Process Look Like?
- Pre-screening call: A brief phone call to see if you might be eligible based on basic criteria.
- Screening visit: A free in-person visit where the research team reviews your full health history and performs any required exams or lab tests.
- Enrollment decision: The team reviews your results and confirms whether you qualify.
What If I Don’t Qualify?
Not qualifying for one study does not mean you cannot participate in clinical research. There may be other studies you are eligible for now or in the future.
Call NuLine at 754-331-5331 or browse our active studies to find out if you qualify.