[How blind is a double-blind trial really? Validity of controlled investigations].

Author: HodelJ, ModestinJ

Paper Details 
Original Abstract of the Article :
During a double blind trial lasting 4 weeks (Diazepam versus Loxapin), two investigators tried to identify the given drug prematurely. Only the more experienced investigator was able to identify the two drugs (p = 0.01). His judgement was based neither on observation of side-effects nor on a clinica...See full text at original site
Dr.Camel IconDr.Camel's Paper Summary Blogラクダ博士について

ラクダ博士は、Health Journal が論文の内容を分かりやすく解説するために作成した架空のキャラクターです。
難解な医学論文を、専門知識のない方にも理解しやすいように、噛み砕いて説明することを目指しています。

* ラクダ博士による解説は、あくまで論文の要点をまとめたものであり、原論文の完全な代替となるものではありません。詳細な内容については、必ず原論文をご参照ください。
* ラクダ博士は架空のキャラクターであり、実際の医学研究者や医療従事者とは一切関係がありません。
* 解説の内容は Health Journal が独自に解釈・作成したものであり、原論文の著者または出版社の見解を反映するものではありません。


引用元:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/334685

データ提供:米国国立医学図書館(NLM)

The Blinding Effect of Double-Blind Trials

The field of medical research often utilizes the double-blind trial to minimize bias, ensuring both the researcher and the participant are unaware of the treatment being administered. This study, focusing on the effectiveness of Diazepam and Loxapin for a period of four weeks, delves into the reliability of this method. The researchers observed that a more experienced investigator, utilizing their expertise and subtle effects, was able to prematurely identify the drugs. This finding challenges the traditional notion of double-blind studies being completely impenetrable. The study concludes that while a double-blind trial with an appropriate comparative drug may not entirely prevent premature decoding, it can significantly reduce the risk, ultimately enhancing the validity of the trial.

A Peek Behind the Veil

This study reveals that even with a double-blind design, experienced individuals can still uncover subtle clues. It's like a seasoned desert traveler, who, with their keen eye, can identify a hidden oasis based on seemingly insignificant details—a faint ripple in the sand, a subtle shift in the wind direction. This discovery suggests that perhaps we need to refine our methodologies to further strengthen the double-blind approach.

The Importance of Blind Faith

This research emphasizes the importance of employing a rigorous double-blind trial in medical research. Just like a camel navigating the vast desert, researchers rely on a set of tools and strategies to ensure a fair and unbiased journey towards scientific discovery. This study highlights the need for continued vigilance and innovation in the pursuit of reliable and accurate scientific results.

Dr.Camel's Conclusion

This study reminds us that even in the most carefully controlled environments, human perception and expertise can play a role in influencing outcomes. The double-blind approach remains a critical tool in medical research, but it's essential to be aware of its limitations and strive for ongoing improvements.

Date :
  1. Date Completed 1977-12-29
  2. Date Revised 2013-11-21
Further Info :

Pubmed ID

334685

DOI: Digital Object Identifier

334685

Related Literature

SNS
PICO Info
in preparation
Languages

German

Positive IndicatorAn AI analysis index that serves as a benchmark for how positive the results of the study are. Note that it is a benchmark and requires careful interpretation and consideration of different perspectives.

This site uses cookies. Visit our privacy policy page or click the link in any footer for more information and to change your preferences.