ClinicalTrials.gov vs openFDA API
Same instrument, two spec sheets — measured, not claimed.
ClinicalTrials.gov vs openFDA API: common questions
Which is more reliable, ClinicalTrials.gov or openFDA API?
On our scheduled checks, openFDA API leads on measured uptime — ClinicalTrials.gov at 99.02% versus openFDA API at 100% over 90 days. These are our own probe results, not provider claims; the uptime bars above show the day-by-day record for both.
Which is faster, ClinicalTrials.gov or openFDA API?
ClinicalTrials.gov has the lower median latency in our checks — ClinicalTrials.gov responds in 243 ms versus openFDA API at 806 ms (P50). Tail latency (P95) is in the table above; for most workloads the median is the number that shapes how the API feels.
Do ClinicalTrials.gov and openFDA API need an API key?
Neither needs a paid key — ClinicalTrials.gov is callable with no signup, and openFDA API is callable with no signup. Both are quick to prototype with; rate limits still apply.
Can I call ClinicalTrials.gov and openFDA API from the browser?
Only ClinicalTrials.gov is browser-friendly — it returns CORS headers over HTTPS. openFDA API needs a server-side call or proxy, so factor that into which one fits a front-end project.
Are ClinicalTrials.gov and openFDA API free for commercial use?
ClinicalTrials.gov has unclear commercial terms, and openFDA API has unclear commercial terms. We track service terms and the data license as separate fields — see the Commercial use and Data license rows above, and confirm both before shipping either in a paid product.