Paid Rheumatoid Arthritis Clinical Trials

Candace Kastanis

Written by Candace Kastanis

Chemistry B.S. | UC Davis | Clinical Lab Technician

Updated & Fact Checked 7/30/26

What are paid rheumatoid arthritis clinical trials?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory-based autoimmune disorder where the body attacks its tissue, organs, and joints. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis typically experience painful episodes of swelling, tenderness, immobility, and inhibited range of motion making the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis challenging. Researchers recruit rheumatoid arthritis volunteers for clinical studies that test pre-market therapies for safety and efficacy and pay them for their participation.

How do I find paid rheumatoid arthritis clinical trials for healthy volunteers near me?

In some cases where existing treatment options are not working as well as desired, your primary physician may recommend a specific paid rheumatoid arthritis clinical trial opportunity. Other paid clinical trial opportunities are easily accessible on government-based public health websites. In some cases, clinical trial sponsors may host informational seminars regarding any approaching clinical trials at your local clinic or hospital.

Atherosclerosis in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus: Restoring Cholesterol Balance
Recruiting
Hypothesis: SLE and RA increase risk of myocardial infarction (MI, heart attack). Immune reactants in the circulation of SLE patients downregulate cholesterol efflux proteins 27-hydroxylase and ABCA1 and upregulate scavenger receptor CD36, thus encouraging cholesterol accumulation. Adenosine A2A receptor agonist or statin treatment of cells exposed to SLE plasma (or immune complexes or cytokine-enriched plasma fractions from SLE patients) may ameliorate inflammatory properties of their plasma, l... Read More
Gender:
ALL
Ages:
Between 18 years and 65 years
Trial Updated:
12/17/2024
Locations: NYU Langone Hospital - Long Island, Mineola, New York
Conditions: Rheumatoid Arthritis
CorEvitas Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Drug Safety & Effectiveness Registry
Recruiting
This prospective, non-interventional research registry is designed to study the comparative effectiveness and comparative safety of approved treatments for RA in a cohort of patients cared for by rheumatologists across North America. Secondary objectives include analyzing the epidemiology and natural history of the disease, its comorbidities, and current treatment practices.
Gender:
ALL
Ages:
18 years and above
Trial Updated:
07/15/2024
Locations: CorEvitas, LLC, Waltham, Massachusetts
Conditions: Rheumatoid Arthritis
A Prospective, Clinical Investigation of the Vanguard 360 Revision Knee
Recruiting
The purpose of this study is to evaluate performance of the Vanguard 360 revision knee system utilizing offset on either the tibial component, femoral component, or both in terms of the restoration of mechanical alignment, clinical outcomes and survivorship.
Gender:
ALL
Ages:
18 years and above
Trial Updated:
02/20/2025
Locations: Illinois Bone and Joint, Morton Grove, Illinois +11 locations
Conditions: Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Traumatic Arthritis, Post Traumatic Deformity, Complications; Arthroplasty, Deformity of Limb
Physica System Total Knee Replacement Registry Study
Recruiting
The primary objective of this study is to obtain long-term implant survivorship (out to 10 years) and to assess clinical, patient-reported outcome measures, and radiographic data for the commercially available Physica system. For ancillary arm, from baseline to 5-year follow-up.
Gender:
ALL
Ages:
22 years and above
Trial Updated:
03/17/2023
Locations: Eisenhower Desert Orthopedics Center - Harry and Diane Rinker Bldg, Rancho Mirage, California +4 locations
Conditions: Osteoarthritis, Knee, Traumatic Arthritis, Avascular Necrosis, Degenerative Joint Disease of Knee, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Deformity of Knee
Early Rheumatoid Arthritis Lung Disease Study
Recruiting
Extra-articular (outside of joints) disease occurs in approximately 50% of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, with the lung being a common site of involvement. The goals of this study are to investigate and characterize lung disease and its prevalence in early RA participants. This will be done through pulmonary function and high resolution chest computed tomography (CT), questionnaires, and serum studies. Another goal is to find novel biomarkers, such anti-malondialdehyde-acetaldehyde (MAA) an... Read More
Gender:
ALL
Ages:
Between 19 years and 90 years
Trial Updated:
08/06/2025
Locations: University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
Conditions: Rheumatoid Arthritis
Maternal Autoimmune Disease Research Alliance (MADRA) Registry
Recruiting
This multi-site registry, centered at Duke University, will enroll pregnant women with autoimmune and rheumatologic diseases. The main goal of MADRA is to identify ways to improve the health of women with rheumatic diseases and their babies during pregnancy. Prior studies demonstrate the importance of increase inflammation prior to and during pregnancy on these outcomes. The future research will seek to better define these risk factors and to identify ways to may improve them.
Gender:
FEMALE
Ages:
All
Trial Updated:
01/24/2025
Locations: Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases, Pregnancy Related, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Cutaneous Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Sjogren's Syndrome, Scleroderma
Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients at Risk for Interstitial Lung Disease
Recruiting
The overall goal of this study is to define the phenotype of Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD), and identify factors that predict radiologic progression in those with subclinical RA-ILD, in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The investigators hypothesize that there are common core elements (e.g. clinical features, genetic variants, and/or biologic markers) between other forms of ILD (e.g. idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, IPF) and subclinical RA-ILD that places individuals at risk for the devel... Read More
Gender:
ALL
Ages:
Between 45 years and 90 years
Trial Updated:
11/28/2023
Locations: University of Colorado - Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
Conditions: Rheumatoid Arthritis, Interstitial Lung Disease
Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis With DMARDs: Predictors of Response
Recruiting
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common disease with approximately 1% prevalence. RA is also a chronic, progressive disease with no cure. Current treatment goals are to minimize pain, limit joint damage, and prevent loss of function. Drugs used to treat RA include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), glucocorticoids, and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), including biologics. Methotrexate (MTX) is the DMARD of choice in the treatment of RA, because it has been shown to be... Read More
Gender:
ALL
Ages:
19 years and above
Trial Updated:
08/06/2025
Locations: University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
Conditions: Rheumatoid Arthritis
NSAIDs vs. Coxibs in the Presence of Aspirin
Recruiting
The objectives of this single site, randomized, crossover study is to evaluate the pharmacodynamic interactions between aspirin, NSAIDs and Coxibs with respect to platelet function, biomarkers of inflammation and endothelial function.
Gender:
ALL
Ages:
Between 18 years and 75 years
Trial Updated:
10/04/2018
Locations: Inova Heart and Vascular Institute, Falls Church, Virginia
Conditions: Rheumatoid Arthritis, Cardiovascular Diseases
Response to Treatment With Intravenous Abatacept Adults With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Recruiting
The immune system of patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is different from that of people who do not have RA. The purpose of this study is to examine immune cells and proteins before subjects start to take study medication and after subjects start treatment with an approved therapy for RA, abatacept that will be given in combination with Methotrexate and/or anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDS) that are approved for the treatment of RA. This study will assess whether subjects have clinically respond... Read More
Gender:
All
Ages:
18 years and above
Trial Updated:
01/23/2019
Locations: New York University Langone Health, New York, New York
Conditions: Rheumatoid Arthritis

Who conducts paid rheumatoid arthritis clinical trials for healthy volunteers?

Paid rheumatoid clinical studies can be hosted by research firms, public health agencies, educational institutions, or pharmaceutical companies. RA is a global health problem – according to WHO, over 14 million suffer from the disorder. Consequently, researchers seek to learn more about RA and the long-term effects of various therapeutics. RA paid clinical studies assist the medical community in their efforts to deliver more personalized treatment strategies.


Quick Facts: Paid Rheumatoid Arthritis Clinical Trials

  • Actively recruiting US studies (July 2026): 77 (ClinicalTrials.gov)
  • Typical eligibility: a confirmed RA diagnosis with active disease, measured by swollen and tender joint counts plus inflammatory markers
  • Methotrexate: many trials are add-on designs where you continue a stable methotrexate dose — you usually do not have to stop your current treatment
  • Typical compensation: $50–$100 per completed visit, plus travel reimbursement
  • Cost to participate: $0 — study medication and visits are covered by the sponsor

Do I have to stop my RA medication to join a trial?

Often not. A large share of rheumatoid arthritis trials are add-on studies: you stay on a stable dose of methotrexate or another conventional DMARD, and the investigational drug or placebo is added. Biologics are a different story — most protocols require a washout period before enrollment, and the length depends on the drug. Never stop or change a prescription on your own to qualify. Bring your complete medication history to the screening visit and let the study physician tell you where you stand.

What are the advantages of participating in a paid rheumatoid arthritis clinical trial?

The primary advantage of participating in a paid rheumatoid clinical trial is an opportunity to try a new treatment without any out-of-pocket costs. Due to advances in mRNA-based therapeutics, rheumatoid arthritis treatment options are considerably more effective than in previous treatment methods. Paid clinical trials allow researchers a comprehensive glimpse into how well they are performing. Understanding how a certain therapeutic works in patients helps them expand on existing successful treatment options.


What are the disadvantages of participating in a paid rheumatoid arthritis clinical trial?

Rheumatoid arthritis is highly debilitating and can be emotionally exhausting for patients who suffer from it. The physical nature of the disease prevents patients from living a quality life so when you enter a paid clinical trial, it is understandable to be optimistic about gaining relief. Should the test treatment not work as hoped, it could be very disappointing for participants. Other disadvantages could be some discomfort in treatment and a measure of inconvenience associated with routine tests, monitoring, and medical appointments.


How does a paid rheumatoid arthritis clinical trial work?

Paid rheumatoid clinical trials provide participants with medications for zero out-of-pocket costs in addition to providing a stipend for anticipated medical expenses, travel, overnight accommodations, and any other incidentals. To receive the full payment, you may be required to keep all appointments and perform any required tests. The type and length of study may vary according to what the study design type is, the clinical sponsor, and the type of therapeutic. There are four clinical study phases, and they all share a common objective of making sure the treatment is safe and effective.

Phase I Paid Clinical Trials

The first phase is a very elementary stage of clinical trials. The aim is to establish the best way to administer the drug, find out how well a patient tolerates it, and what the best dose may be to obtain the desired results.

Phase II Paid Clinical Trials

Phase II clinical trials mirrors the objectives in stage one, but with a more defined data set.

Phase III Paid Clinical Trials

Phase III studies are typically exceptionally large. The clinical investigators perform a randomized controlled study design with changing variables to achieve a better understanding of how the drug works in various patient subsets.

Phase IV Paid Clinical Trials

Phase IV clinical trials are designed to test the drug as they would in the clinical market. This is the last phase to evaluate the effectiveness of the product against the current standards of treatment in addition to truly defining if the product is viable enough to continue with going to market.


What do researchers learn from conducting paid rheumatoid arthritis clinical trials?

Previous rheumatoid arthritis studies revealed RA attacks the internal organs in addition to permanently damaging soft tissue and joints in the body. More concerning, RA is also connected to advanced lung disease. Finding effective treatments to prevent the erosion of the joints and helping patients attain a higher quality of life is the aim of most current clinical studies focusing on RA therapeutics.

Further studies may offer insight regarding:

  • What mRNA therapeutics may work best in specific patient populations i.e., women who are pregnant, children, seniors, etc.
  • Which drug interactions may pose a threat.
  • How treatments can be geared towards the different stages of rheumatoid arthritis
  • How a patient may respond in general (is the drug therapeutic as effective as those previously used).
  • Which genetic biomarkers play a role.
  • There are ongoing trials looking into how to potentially cure rheumatoid arthritis permanently

Commonly Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • How much are paid rheumatoid arthritis clinical trial participants paid on average?

    Most outpatient studies pay $50–$100 per completed visit, plus travel reimbursement. Compensation reflects the time and number of visits a study requires rather than its risk, and the exact amount appears in the consent form before you enroll.

  • How do I find out if I am eligible to participate in a paid rheumatoid arthritis clinical trial?

    Clinical trial and eligibility information relating to paid rheumatoid arthritis clinical trials require a documented medical history of problems associated with RA. The clinical study coordinator or team lead may determine eligibility based on failed previous drug interventions, the current impact on your current health, and any risk factors that make participation a good option. More information is usually available on the clinical sponsor’s website.

  • Will participation in paid rheumatoid arthritis clinical trials prevent me from leaving prior to completion?

    Withdrawing from a paid rheumatoid clinical trial is permitted for any reason. Most clinical care coordinators provide patients with in-depth information at the beginning of the clinical trial so they can decide based on personal readiness, and aptitude for completion.

    Common Reasons Cited by Participants for Discontinuing a Paid Psoriasis Clinical Trial

    • Adverse reactions from the study therapeutic type
    • Financial hardship or job conflict
    • Unplanned family circumstances such as trouble finding childcare, a move etc.
    • Discouragement
    • Adverse health situation
    • Transportation

  • What type of information is normally collected in paid rheumatoid arthritis clinical trials?

    The type of information collected in clinical trials range from basic generalized patient points such as age, weight, ethnic background, gender, lifestyle, medications, and lifestyle. In most clinical studies, the information collected is used to help evaluate the effectiveness of the targeted treatment used. Researchers may also collect RA specific bio-materials from you for future research studies.

    The final report may include:

    • Any adverse effects.
    • Changes to new or existing areas of the skin.
    • Personal experience.
    • Enhanced risk factors
    • Health complications

  • How long do paid rheumatoid arthritis clinical trials last?

    Paid rheumatoid arthritis clinical trials do not have a set timeline with them and vary in length based on a myriad of factors such as:

    • Clinical trial design and type
    • Clinical sponsor
    • Type of drug intervention
    • Behavioral and lifestyle considerations

  • If I am interested in participating in a paid rheumatoid arthritis clinical trial, what questions should I ask?

    The clinical trial coordinator is responsible for addressing any concerns at any point during your clinical trial experience. The NIH maintains clear guidance for orchestrating a transparent clinical trial experience with a strong emphasis on patient safety.

    Termed as informed consent, the clinical trial sponsors must disclose the following information:

    1. The comprehensive nature of the treatment, procedure, or drug.
    2. Any inherent risks associated with the intended treatment methods.
    3. Reasonable alternatives to the procedure or treatment intervention.
    4. Assessment and acknowledgment that you, the patient, are in complete understanding of items 1-3.

    Informed consent is required and articulates the agreement between you, your healthcare physician, and clinical trial sponsors. The purpose of informed consent is to provide the patient with the details of every facet of the intended clinical trial study plan. This goal of informed consent is to establish trust and confidence between the eligible participant and the clinical trial sponsor team leads.