Posted by linkadge on September 8, 2002, at 8:49:15
In reply to Some inside info, posted by Martin Johnson on September 8, 2002, at 1:31:55
When researching findings such as these
it is necessary to look at the majority of
the trials, not simply one.It is increasingly obvious to anyone who
studies the field, that a study can be
prepared to show almost any outcome.
This study does not negate the thousands of
positive drug trials out there.Another thing to keep in mind is the power
of the placebo effect, and relapse times.
This study obviously did not take into
account the relapse times of the placebo
group vs. the AD group. The placebo effect
can be very strong, because it has the power
to completely redirect a patient's attention
and hope. Unfortunatly time and time again
have proven that the placebo effect, while
initially strong, often leaves a patient
in a worse scenario, after the emotional
high has worn off.One other thing to keep in mind, is the lenght
of the trial. THe placebo effect kicks in
immediatly and starts to wear off in less
than two weeks. On the other hand, an AD
drug is initally depressing (because of burdensome
side effects) and then starts to work over
the next few weeks.
Linkadge
[xxx]
poster:linkadge
thread:119263
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020906/msgs/119276.html