Measuring effectiveness of drugs in observational databanks: promises and perils
Division of Immunology, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
Arthritis Res Ther 2004, 6:41-44 doi:10.1186/ar1151
Published: 5 February 2004Abstract
Observational databanks have inherent strengths and shortcomings. As in randomized controlled trials, poor design of these databanks can either exaggerate or reduce estimates of drug effectiveness and can limit generalizability. This commentary highlights selected aspects of study design, data collection and statistical analysis that can help overcome many of these inadequacies. An international metaRegister and a formal mechanism for standardizing and sharing drug data could help improve the utility of databanks. Medical journals have a vital role in enforcing a quality checklist that improves reporting.
