Posted by SLS on November 19, 2004, at 10:26:54
In reply to Re: Demonstrating the efficacy of ADs, posted by ed_uk on November 19, 2004, at 9:09:38
Hi Ed.
> We rely on double blind trials to demonstrate efficacy though!
Have there ever been double-blind trials determining the efficacy of parachutes versus placebo in skydiving?
The problem with the studies in the way they are currently designed and interpreted is that the rate of placebo response is so high. I bet if the selection criteria were to treat people with severe depression presenting with psychomotor retardation, the results would be different.
Frederick Quitkin, MD, has paid quite a bit of attention to the placebo response and its interpretation in double-blind protocols along with rating bias:
http://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/cgi/content/full/157/3/327
- Scott
poster:SLS
thread:417568
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20041118/msgs/417878.html