Q10 Select the TWO options that are TRUE statements about cl

Q10

Select the TWO options that are TRUE statements about clinical trials.

Select one or more:

A) In a group-comparative trial, randomisation always ensures that the experimental and control groups are exactly alike in all important respects.

B) In a clinical trial with a matched-pairs design, paired individuals need not necessarily have the same gender.

C) In a double-blind clinical trial, neither the patients receiving the placebo nor the patients receiving the drug under test know whether they are receiving the drug or the placebo. The researchers who assess the outcomes of the treatments do know who received which treatment, for ethical reasons.

D) Randomisation is used in clinical trials mainly to avoid selection bias, but can also help to facilitate blinding.

E) In a placebo-controlled clinical trial with a crossover design, all the patients receive the placebo first and then change over to the drug under test.

Solution

A) In a group-comparative trial, randomisation always ensures that the experimental and control groups are exactly alike in all important respects.

C) In a double-blind clinical trial, neither the patients receiving the placebo nor the patients receiving the drug under test know whether they are receiving the drug or the placebo. The researchers who assess the outcomes of the treatments do know who received which treatment, for ethical reasons.