Study Types
Open-Label Study
A trial where both participants and researchers know who receives the treatment.
In an open-label study, all parties — participants, investigators, and outcome assessors — are aware of which treatment each participant receives. While easier to conduct than blinded studies, open-label designs are susceptible to placebo effects and observer bias. In supplement research, open-label studies are sometimes used for long-term safety monitoring or when blinding is impractical. Their results should be interpreted with caution, particularly for subjective outcomes.