Research participant Nils can save lives

Nils Öberg on Participating in Clinical Studies

Since spring 2013, Nils Öberg, 29 years old, has participated in ten clinical studies at CTC Clinical Trial Consultants. He is driven by curiosity, among other things, and takes the opportunity to be productive and social during the studies. Through his participation, he drives research forward.

For new medicines to be developed, clinical studies in humans need to be conducted. As a research participant, one voluntarily takes part in these. Nils Öberg has participated in several studies, including those involving medicines intended for future treatment of leukemia, diabetes, and sleep disorders. Before the health check for his first participation, he was curious.

– I wasn't worried about participating because I received good information about the study after expressing my interest. I am always well aware of what I'm getting into, even if I tend to forget the details afterwards.

A classmate suggested he participate in the study. He thought it sounded exciting and saw the opportunity to study at the same time.

– At that time, I was studying biological psychology, which made me interested in seeing scientific methods practiced in reality instead of just reading about them in books.

Nils Öberg believes that many participants do it primarily for the compensation.

– It's a way to earn some extra money but also to contribute to research so that others can benefit from it in the future.

One purpose of early studies is to discover what side effects a medicine might cause. However, the doses are always low, and the medicine is well-tested in animal studies. Therefore, serious side effects are very rare. Furthermore, all drug studies must always be approved by both the Swedish Medical Products Agency and the Ethical Review Authority before they can begin.

– I still have five fingers on both hands! I've had a headache and felt tired, but otherwise, I haven't experienced any side effects. I find the needles a bit uncomfortable, but that's partly psychological, says Nils.

During his stay, Nils Öberg has kept himself busy with a variety of things. Among other things, he's done marketing for his band, ARSADI, studied for exams, and socialized. The first period after dosing often involves many tests, such as blood samples.

– Once, I took a distance learning music theory course while participating in a study. I was examined by submitting recorded music snippets. So I brought a MIDI synth with me and recorded from my bed.

Today, Nils Öberg holds two bachelor's degrees and has just submitted his master's thesis. He expects to participate in more studies in the future, at least until he has a stable income, and has just signed up for a new one.

– I expect the studies to be conducted professionally and that I will be treated kindly.

Every time Nils Öberg has participated as a research participant in an overnight study, he has stayed in with a group. He has met many people with knowledge in various fields and says he has received private lectures in subjects like physics and art.

– During the last election, I was staying in for a study. We had an election watch party at the clinic and heated political discussions. Another time, a guy suggested we all go skydiving together. It never happened, but the social aspect is meaningful, and after all, everyone is in the same boat.

Do you also want to participate in studies and help advance research? Register in our database.