5 Questions About Paid Clinical Trials in Japan
Clinical trials in Japan can be a great way for foreigners to earn extra income while studying or working. Participants not only receive compensation but also get a full health check. This includes tests for STDs, infectious diseases and other serious conditions that might otherwise go undetected in the early stages. With more opportunities for foreign residents to join paid clinical trials in Japan, here are answers to five common questions from new applicants about paid participation.
Am I Eligible?
Eligibility for clinical trials depends on factors such as age, BMI, medical history and overall health. Each study has its own criteria, primarily to ensure participant safety and the reliability of test results. Applicants typically need to complete a detailed medical history questionnaire. For most trials involving new medications, past diagnoses of recurring conditions (such as mental illness, asthma, atopic dermatitis or drug/food allergies) may disqualify an applicant.
What If I Don’t Have a Work Visa?
A work visa is not required for most clinical trials. Students and tourists are generally eligible as long as they hold a valid visa throughout the study’s duration. If you are not a resident of Japan, you will usually need to present your passport at the information session and health check.
Why Are Healthy Participants Needed?
Many people ask why researchers test medication for a specific illness on healthy individuals. They do this to gather baseline data on how the body absorbs and distributes the drug before and after patient trials. Factors like dosage form (capsule, injection, etc.), food intake, and fasting can influence these results. To minimize variables, studies often select participants with similar physical conditions and no underlying health issues.
Why Are Foreign Participants Needed?
Many clinical trials for foreigners in Japan involve medications already approved overseas. To obtain approval from Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare, drug manufacturers may need to prove that test results for non-Japanese participants align with those of Japanese participants. If there are no significant differences, researchers can use data from prior overseas trials, reducing the approval time.
What If I Change My Mind After Starting a Trial?
Participation in a clinical trial is entirely voluntary. You can withdraw at any time, even after the trial has started. You have no obligation to continue after attending the information session, receiving the free health check, or signing the informed consent document. This document simply confirms that you have received and understood the trial explanation—it is not a binding contract.
To explore current and upcoming clinical trials, visit the Clinical Trials Tokyo website.