About Our Clinical Trials

At Sanova Dermatology, our Center for Skin Research conducts medical and cosmetic research trials for pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical companies, laser manufacturers and clinical research organizations of Dermatology Studies

We conduct medical studies of the skin, hair, and nails for major and emerging pharmaceutical companies. We help these companies, and the clinical research organizations that often oversee their trials, test new and generic oral and topical medications for skin conditions such as acne, actinic keratosis, psoriasis, and rosacea. We also perform cosmetic studies for wrinkles and skin rejuvenation, including trials for permanent and temporary dermal fillers, lasers and cosmeceuticals. Most are seeking U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval.

As a clinical research site, we are part of an important process, helping innovative remedies prove their safety and worth and make their way to market. We see our work with generics, when they make the grade, as a way to lower the cost of medication for consumers.

Being a Study Patient

Our medical and cosmetic clinical trials provide us the opportunity to see first-hand what’s new and innovative in dermatological science. But just as importantly, it gives our research patients a chance to advance science and possibly benefit from the therapies being tested. Like our medical dermatology and cosmetic dermatology patients, our clinical research participants receive excellent care and service. They receive free skin exams from a board-certified dermatologist, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant, study-related medication or treatment at no cost and often blood, electro-cardiogram and other tests – again, at no charge. Sometimes these tests alert patients to an abnormality or other health issues that they were unaware of and that could negatively impact their lives. We have provided answers to frequently asked questions that interested patients can review to get a better understanding for what’s involved in participating in a clinical trial.

Common Patient Concerns

There can be a natural aversion to being a study participant. There may be a concern about the safety of the trial. After all, it’s a test medication or device. There may also be concerns about lack of information about the drug or being trapped in a trial once it begins. We address the first 2 concerns clearly and carefully during a screening visit when we confirm that you have the skin condition being studied and we assess its severity and other inclusion and exclusion criteria to see if you qualify for the study. Our clinical research coordinators (CRCs) go over the study with you. Before someone can join a trial, the individual must review a detailed informed consent with our CRCs and doctors, nurse practitioner or physician assistant, explaining exactly what’s involved and what will happen during the study. The third concern is also addressed in the informed consent – that is, letting all participants know that they are free to leave a study at any time for any reason.