Crohn's, Colitis, Constipation
Clinical Trial
Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis and Constipation Clinical Trial in Denver
Curious about a clinical trial for Crohn’s Disease, ulcerative colitis and constipation? Look no further. We are enrolling qualified adults for an Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) clinical research study in Denver. IBD includes ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease.
Visit our IBD page to learn more about this digestive condition.
The goal with clinical research is to learn more about new approaches to care and to help improve future treatment options.
What Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a group of chronic conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive tract. The two main types are ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s Disease. While symptoms vary from person to person, IBD commonly affects bowel habits, abdominal comfort, energy levels, and quality of life.
Ulcerative Colitis vs. Crohn’s Disease
UC and Crohn’s are related, but not identical. Ulcerative colitis affects the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. Crohn’s disease can involve any part of the digestive tract and may affect deeper layers of the bowel wall. Many symptoms can overlap—and your gastroenterology team can help confirm the diagnosis and discuss whether a research study may be appropriate for you.
IBD Symptoms and Bowel Habits – Including Constipation
IBD is often associated with diarrhea, urgency, and abdominal pain, but bowel habits can vary. Some people with IBD may also experience constipation or difficult bowel movements at times—for example due to inflammation location, diet changes, dehydration, certain medications, or narrowing of the bowel (strictures). If constipation is one of your main concerns, we can help you understand whether your symptoms fit the study—and whether evaluations may be needed.
What is Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC)?
Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by persistently infrequent, difficult, or incomplete bowel movements with no single identifiable cause. Constipation can also have many other causes, so it’s important to discuss your full symptom history with your GI clinician or the research team.
Benefits of Participating in a Clinical Trial
Clinical trials are voluntary. If you qualify and choose to participate, you may receive the following benefits.
- Access to investigational treatment — Try a new therapy not yet widely available to the public
- No cost to you — All study-related visits, exams, lab work, and investigational medication are provided completely free of charge
- Expert GI care — Receive close monitoring and personalized attention from our experienced gastroenterology team throughout the study
- Study-related education and support. Learn about the study process, what to expect at visits, and how your symptoms are tracked over time
- Help advance future care
- Your participation supports research that may benefit others with ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease
- Compensation
- Qualified participants may receive compensation for their time and travel to study visits
Why Clinical Research Matters
Clinical research helps doctors and scientists better understand IBD and evaluate potential new therapies. Participating is one way to contribute to progress whether or not you have ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.
FAQs You Can Use for Better Digestive Health
What does IBD mean?
IBD stands for Inflammatory Bowel Disease, a group of conditions that cause ongoing inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The most common forms are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
Is Ulcerative Colitis the Same as Crohn’s Disease?
No. Both are types of IBD, but they can affect different areas of the digestive tract and may behave differently over time. UC involves the colon/rectum, while Crohn’s can occur anywhere along the GI tract. Your diagnosis is based on a combination of symptoms, lab tests, imaging, and endoscopy findings.
What Symptoms Can IBD Cause?
Symptoms can vary, but may include diarrhea, urgency, abdominal pain, blood or mucus in stool (more common in UC), fatigue, weight loss, and changes in appetite. Some people may also experience constipation at times, depending on the situation.
Can IBD Cause Constipation?
It can. Constipation may happen for a variety of reasons, including inflammation patterns, reduced intake during flares, certain medications, dehydration, or bowel narrowing. Because constipation can also signal other issues, it’s best to discuss persistent or severe symptoms with a clinician promptly.
What Happens in an IBD Clinical Trial?
Every study is different, but many include a screening visit, study visits over time, symptom tracking, and assessments such as bloodwork, questionnaires, or other evaluations. The research team will explain what is involved, including potential risks and benefits, before you decide.
Is Participating in a Clinical Trial Safe?
All clinical trials have requirements designed to protect participants, and you’ll be asked to review and sign an informed consent document that explains the study, potential risks, and your rights. You can ask questions at any time, and participation is voluntary.
Who May Qualify for a Clinical Trial? And is There Any Cost?
Eligibility depends on the specific study and may involve factors such as diagnosis, current symptoms, medication history, and overall health. If you qualify, study-related care is typically provided at no cost, and some studies offer compensation for time and travel. Our clinical trials team will confirm details during your screening.
Ready to take the next step?
If you’re interested in learning whether this IBD study may be a fit, contact our research team to ask questions and review next steps. Enrollment is limited.
Call 303-353-2660 or visit Advanced Research Institute to learn more.
Return to our clinical trials in Denver Home page.
