Selfexperimentation

Self-experimentation refers to the practice of conducting experiments on oneself to test hypotheses, evaluate interventions, or observe physiological or psychological responses. It can involve drugs, diets, devices, behavioral protocols, or diagnostic procedures. It differs from formal clinical trials in that it usually lacks external subjects, blinding, randomization, or institutional oversight, and findings may not be generalizable. Nonetheless, it can provide rapid, cost-effective insights and can serve as a starting point for more rigorous studies.

Historically, self-experimentation has appeared across medicine, psychology, and science, and has been notable in the biohacking and citizen-science communities. A famous example is the work of Barry Marshall and Robin Warren, who ingested Helicobacter pylori to demonstrate its role in gastritis and peptic ulcers, later winning the Nobel Prize for their discovery. Self-experimentation remains common in areas such as nutrition, exercise, sleep research, and early-stage drug or device testing when formal avenues are unavailable.

Methodological considerations for self-experimentation include single-subject design, careful baseline measurements, repeated testing, and transparent reporting. While it can reveal individual responses, results are subject to biases, placebo effects, and lack of reproducibility. Researchers who publish findings may still face questions about methodological rigor and ethical standards.

Ethical and safety issues are central. Although self-experimentation may bypass some formal review processes, it can entail real harm and ethical concerns, particularly when involving potentially dangerous substances or procedures. Regulations vary by country and context, and researchers are advised to consider risk assessment, documentation, and, when possible, consultation with independent experts.