Weight Loss Clinical Trials for Adults Without Diabetes
Mission Research Institute in Gilbert, Arizona runs clinical trials for adults who want to lose weight and keep it off. Our studies test new medications and approaches to weight management for people who do not have diabetes.
- No costStudy care, labs and medication
- No insurance needed
- Location690 E. Warner Road, Suite 134, Gilbert, Arizona
Why take part in a weight loss study?
Losing weight and keeping it off is hard, and diet and exercise alone are not always enough. Excess weight raises the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease and joint problems. Newer medications have changed what is possible, and research continues to look for treatments that work better and for more people.
Participants get regular weigh-ins, health check-ups and support from our research team throughout the study.

- Regular weigh-ins
- Health check-ups
- Support from our research team
Who may qualify
Requirements vary, but our weight loss studies generally look for adults who:
- Are 18 years of age or older
- Have a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher. Check your BMI here.
- Do not have type 2 diabetes (people with diabetes may qualify for our diabetes studies)
- Have tried to lose weight before, through diet, exercise or other means
Some studies also look for weight-related conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or sleep apnea. If you aren't sure where you fit, our coordinators can talk it through with you.
Ready to see if a weight loss study is right for you?
Fill out the short form or call 480-716-9118. A Mission Research Institute team member will contact you within 1–2 business days.
Call 480-716-9118Types of weight loss research we conduct
New weight management medications
Including once-weekly injectables and daily pills.
Studies on keeping weight off
After initial weight loss.
Weight and heart health studies
For people with weight-related risk factors.
What to expect
- 1
Quick phone questions
About 15 minutes on your height, weight, health history and any weight loss medicines you have tried.
- 2
Screening visit
We walk you through the study and the consent form and answer your questions. The screening visit may include height, weight and waist measurements, fasting bloodwork or other diagnostic screenings needed to confirm eligibility.
- 3
Regular check-ins
Weigh-ins, vital signs and blood work, typically every few weeks early on and then monthly. Most visits take 1–2 hours.
- 4
Final visit
We measure your results and check how you are doing once the study treatment ends.
Weight loss studies often run a year or longer, because lasting results take time to measure. You get the exact schedule before you agree to join.
Cost and compensation
- No charge for study medication, weigh-ins, labs or exams
- Open to people with or without health insurance
- Payment for your time and travel (the amount depends on the study)
- Each study is reviewed by an Institutional Review Board (IRB), an independent committee that protects the rights and safety of research participants

Your study team
Dr. Sunildat Maheshwari leads our weight management research. As a family medicine physician in Gilbert since 2010, he has helped many patients work through the health effects of excess weight.
Meet Dr. Sunny →Will I have to follow a strict diet?
Most studies ask you to follow general healthy eating and activity guidance, not a strict diet plan. The study team explains exactly what is expected before you join.
I'm already taking a weight loss medication. Can I join?
It depends on the study. Some require that you have not taken certain weight loss medications recently. Tell the coordinator on your pre-screening call and they will check for you.
How much weight do people lose?
Results vary from person to person, and some participants receive a placebo. Measuring how well a treatment works is the reason the study is being done.
Are participants paid for weight loss studies?
Yes. You are compensated for your time and travel. The amount depends on the study and the number of visits, and you will know it before you join.
What happens when the study ends?
The study team checks in with you at a final visit and shares next steps. Your own doctor can help you decide on care going forward.
Learn more
New to research studies? Read our guides:
The Obesity Epidemic and the Science of What Actually Works Metabolic Syndrome: When Five Risk Factors Show Up TogetherReady to see if a weight loss study is right for you?
Fill out the short form or call 480-716-9118. A Mission Research Institute team member will contact you within 1–2 business days.
Weight Loss Studies in Gilbert & the East Valley
Mission Research Institute is a clinical research site in Gilbert, Arizona, serving adults across the East Valley, including Mesa, Chandler, Queen Creek and Tempe. If you're 18 or older, have a BMI of 27 or greater and are looking for a weight loss study near you,
