How do I find a pulmonary fibrosis clinical trial I'm eligible for?

Search databases

Start with ClinicalTrials.gov, a free government database. Search "pulmonary fibrosis" and filter by location and recruitment status. Read the eligibility criteria carefully—trials have specific requirements around lung function, age, prior treatments, and disease type. Ask your pulmonologist which trials they're aware of or have partnerships with.

Evaluate before enrolling

Read the protocol summary to understand what participation involves: how often you visit, what tests you'll have, and any risks. Ask the trial coordinator about side effects reported in earlier trial phases. Understand whether the drug is experimental or already approved. Clarify travel requirements and time commitment.

Questions for the trial team

Ask what happens to your care if you experience a serious side effect. Ask whether you can withdraw at any time. Clarify whether the trial covers costs and how compensation works. Ask what results will be shared and when. Request contact information for the principal investigator and a patient advocate if available. Taking time to understand a trial prevents regret later.