Open-label trial
An open-label trial, or open trial, is a type of clinical trial in which information is not withheld from trial participants. In particular, both the researchers and participants know which treatment is being administered. This contrasts with a blinded experiment, where information is withheld to reduce bias.
Open-label trials may be appropriate for comparing two very similar treatments to determine which is most effective. An open-label trial may be unavoidable under some circumstances, such as comparing the effectiveness of a medication to intensive physical therapy sessions.
An open-label trial may still be randomized. Open-label trials may also be uncontrolled, with all participants receiving the same treatment.
