Rheumatology Clinical Trials in Whittier, CA

Amicus Arthritis takes part in carefully selected clinical research studying new treatments for rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other rheumatologic conditions. Participation is entirely voluntary, and it's an option worth understanding whether or not it turns out to be right for you.

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a research study that tests whether a new treatment is safe and effective. Every medication your rheumatologist prescribes today went through this process first.

Trials follow a detailed plan reviewed and approved by an independent ethics board before anyone enrolls. That plan spells out who can participate, what treatment is given, what's measured, and how participants are monitored throughout.

Why some patients consider a trial

Not everyone responds to standard treatment, and some patients want access to therapies still under study. Others simply want to contribute to research that may help people with the same condition in the future.

It's worth being clear about what a trial is and isn't. A trial is research, not guaranteed treatment. New therapies may work better than existing options, about the same, or not as well. Some studies involve a placebo. Your study team will explain exactly what applies to any trial you're considering before you decide anything.

What Participation Involves

Every study is different, but most follow a similar shape:

  • Screening. A visit to review your medical history and run any tests the study requires. This determines whether you meet the criteria, and many people don't, which is normal.

  • Informed consent. Before anything begins, you'll receive a written document explaining the study's purpose, procedures, risks, and alternatives. You'll have time to read it, ask questions, and discuss it with family. Nothing starts until you sign.

  • Study visits. Regular appointments in our Whittier office, typically more frequent than routine care. These may include lab work, imaging, questionnaires, and physical exams.

  • Follow-up. Continued monitoring through the end of the study.

Your Rights as a Participant

  • Participation is voluntary. You choose whether to enroll.

  • You can withdraw at any time, for any reason, without affecting your regular care at Amicus.

  • Your regular treatment continues. Your rheumatologist remains your rheumatologist.

  • Your information is protected under the same privacy rules that cover the rest of your care.

  • You'll never be charged for study-related procedures. Costs are covered by the study sponsor.

Current Research Areas

We currently have active studies in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Available trials change as studies open and close.

Is a trial right for you?

Eligibility depends on your specific diagnosis, treatment history, current medications, and overall health. The only way to know is to ask. If you're already a patient here, bring it up at your next visit. If you're not, we're happy to talk about whether any current study might be a fit.

Call (562) 758-6600 to speak with our research team.

Common Questions

  1. Will I be given a placebo?
    Some studies include a placebo group; many don't. If a study you're considering does, that will be explained clearly during the consent process before you decide.

  2. Does it cost anything?
    Study-related visits and procedures are covered by the sponsor. Some studies also reimburse travel or time — your study coordinator will explain what applies.

  3. Can I stay on my current medication?
    It depends on the study. Some require a washout period, others allow you to continue. This is one of the first things screening determines.

  4. What if I change my mind?
    You can withdraw at any point. It won't affect your care with us in any way.

  5. Do I need a referral?
    No. You can call us directly to ask about current studies.