Clinical trials in Japan
Find clinical trials recruiting at hospitals and research centres across Japan.
Clinical research in Japan
Japan is one of the world's largest clinical research markets, with trials recruiting at university hospitals, national centres and dedicated research sites in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Fukuoka and many other cities. Global pharmaceutical companies routinely include Japan in their international development programs.
Clinical trials in Japan are regulated by the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency, which reviews clinical trial notifications under the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. Every study must also be approved by an institutional review board before it can recruit participants, and Japanese good clinical practice standards are among the strictest in the world.
Participants in Japanese trials receive study-related care at no cost, with careful informed consent and close monitoring throughout. Japan's research strengths include oncology, neurology, cardiovascular disease, regenerative medicine and studies designed for older populations.
How trials are run in Japan
Regulator
The Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) reviews clinical trials under the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
Ethics oversight
Institutional review boards approve and monitor every study before and during recruitment.
Research strengths
Oncology, neurology, cardiovascular, regenerative medicine and research in older populations.
Find a clinical trial in Japan
Search studies by condition and location on our trial search platform. Searching and enquiring is free for patients.
Clinical trial questions in Japan
No. Study-related treatment, tests and visits are provided at no cost, and many Japanese trials also reimburse travel or provide allowances approved by the institutional review board.
The Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) reviews clinical trials under the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, and every study must be approved by an institutional review board before recruitment begins.
Studies recruit at university hospitals, national centres and dedicated research sites in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Fukuoka and many other cities across the country.
Search recruiting studies by condition on Clinrol and submit an enquiry. The research team will check your eligibility, explain the study in detail and complete informed consent before any procedures start.
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The information on this page has been compiled from various sources and is provided for general informational purposes only. It may not be complete, current or applicable to your circumstances. It is not medical, legal or other professional advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional guidance. Consider your individual circumstances and risks, review the relevant official sources, and speak with your doctor or another appropriately qualified professional before making health-related decisions.