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Randomized controlled trials in pediatric patients had higher completion rates than adult trials: a cross-sectional study. J Clin Epidemiol 2018; 100:53-60. [PMID: 29705092 DOI: 10.1016/j.jclinepi.2018.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2017] [Revised: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Conduct of clinical trials is perceived to be more challenging in children than in adults. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the age of participants on completion rates of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING A cross-sectional study on RCTs registered in the ClinicalTrials.gov database. All RCTs registered up to December 31, 2016, were extracted and were classified according to their recruitment status: active, completed, or discontinued and according to the age of participants: children (<17 years), adults (≥18 years), and mixed-age population. A logistic regression model was applied to assess the impact of participant's age category on trial completion while controlling for other relevant trial features. RESULTS A total of 65,095 registered RCTs were identified. Among pediatric trials, 49.9% were completed and 8.5% were discontinued. Among adult and mixed age RCTs, respectively, 49.7% and 47.9% were completed whereas, 10.2% and 9.4% were discontinued. Overall, pediatric and mixed age RCTs were more likely to be registered as completed than adult RCTs (odds ratio: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.02-1.30; odds ratio: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.04-1.27, respectively). Also, funding source, type of intervention under evaluation, primary trial purpose, use of a blinding procedure, use of a placebo, and participants' assignment model were identified as independent predictors of RCT completion. CONCLUSION Contrary to current perceptions and despite several specific challenges, recruitment of children and adolescents is not a limiting factor to completing a RCT. Other study features such as funding source, impact completeness and should be carefully considered before initiating research.
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202
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Use of available clinical evidence to extrapolate drug effects from adults to children. Therapie 2018; 73:119-125. [PMID: 29605145 DOI: 10.1016/j.therap.2017.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The extrapolation of the benefit risk ratio from adults to children is performed during drug development and often implicitly used by many paediatricians when prescribing off-label drugs in children. This is due to the specific constraints of paediatric clinical research leading to a lack of safety and efficacy data in children. Extrapolation frameworks for drug development have been proposed by several regulatory agencies. Using a meta-epidemiological approach, we explored the similarities and differences of the benefit, the benefit risk ratio and the perceived placebo effect between adults and children from meta-analyses including randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled trials evaluating a drug intervention in an indication in adults and children with separate data for both populations. We also explored the use of the effect model using adult data to predict the treatment effect in children and to calibrate future paediatric clinical trials. Our research highlights the importance of using all available evidence and quantitative methods before extrapolating the benefit risk ratio from adults to children and carrying out new studies in the context of the existing evidence. More generally, this should be applied to any research to avoid a waste of time and resources invested.
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Sack BS, Elizondo RA, Huang GO, Janzen N, Espinoza J, Sanz-Cortes M, Dietrich JE, Hakim J, Richardson ES, Oden M, Hanks J, Haridas B, Hury JF, Koh CJ. Pediatric medical device development by surgeons via capstone engineering design programs. J Pediatr Surg 2018; 53:493-498. [PMID: 28196661 PMCID: PMC5545169 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2017.01.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2017] [Revised: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 01/28/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a need for pediatric medical devices that accommodate the unique physiology and anatomy of pediatric patients that is increasingly receiving more attention. However, there is limited literature on the programs within children's hospitals and academia that can support pediatric device development. We describe our experience with pediatric device design utilizing collaborations between a children's hospital and two engineering schools. METHODS Utilizing the academic year as a timeline, unmet pediatric device needs were identified by surgical faculty and matched with an engineering mentor and a team of students within the Capstone Engineering Design programs at two universities. The final prototypes were showcased at the end of the academic year and if appropriate, provisional patent applications were filed. RESULTS All twelve teams successfully developed device prototypes, and five teams obtained provisional patents. The prototypes that obtained provisional patents included a non-operative ureteral stent removal system, an evacuation device for small kidney stone fragments, a mechanical leech, an anchoring system of the chorio-amniotic membranes during fetal surgery, and a fetal oxygenation monitor during fetoscopic procedures. CONCLUSIONS Capstone Engineering Design programs in partnership with surgical faculty at children's hospitals can play an effective role in the prototype development of novel pediatric medical devices. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE N/A - No clinical subjects or human testing was performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan S Sack
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Boston Children's Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Rodolfo A Elizondo
- Division of Pediatric Urology, Department of Surgery, and the Scott Department of Urology, Texas Children's Hospital/Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Gene O Huang
- Division of Pediatric Urology, Department of Surgery, and the Scott Department of Urology, Texas Children's Hospital/Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Nicolette Janzen
- Division of Pediatric Urology, Department of Surgery, and the Scott Department of Urology, Texas Children's Hospital/Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Jimmy Espinoza
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Texas Children's Hospital/Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Magdalena Sanz-Cortes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Texas Children's Hospital/Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Jennifer E Dietrich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Texas Children's Hospital/Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Julie Hakim
- Division of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Departments of Surgery and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Texas Children's Hospital/Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Eric S Richardson
- Division of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Departments of Surgery and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Texas Children's Hospital/Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Maria Oden
- Oshman Engineering Design Kitchen, Department of Bioengineering, Brown School of Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX
| | - John Hanks
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Dwight Look College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
| | - Balakrishna Haridas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Dwight Look College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
| | - James F Hury
- Business Development and Planning Department, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX
| | - Chester J Koh
- Division of Pediatric Urology, Department of Surgery, and the Scott Department of Urology, Texas Children's Hospital/Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX.
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Moulis F, Durrieu G, Lapeyre-Mestre M. Off-label and unlicensed drug use in children population. Therapie 2018; 73:135-149. [PMID: 29580614 DOI: 10.1016/j.therap.2018.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Off-label (OL) and unlicensed (UL) drug use is widely developed in the pediatric population according to previous reviews published in the early 2010s. The present study is a narrative review of the literature of OL-UL drug use from 2013. METHODS We performed a literature search of research articles assessing OL-UL drug use in children (<18 years-old) published in Medline® from January 2013 until May 2017. RESULTS Twenty-seven studies were included. OL drug use was defined by inappropriate age, indication, dosage or way of administration according to the summary of product characteristics in >80% of studies. UL drug used was defined by the use of drugs not licensed in the country or modifications of licensed drugs in >70% of studies. Among in- and out-patients, the frequency of patients exposed to at least one OL-UL drug ranged from 36.3 to 97.0% and from 18.6 to 40.2%, respectively. Drug use was categorized as OL mostly due to inappropriate age, dosage or indication. OL-UL drug use was the most prevalent in newborns (mainly preterms) and pre-school children (aged 2-5years). Various drugs were involved, depending on patients' age. Polypharmacy and long hospital stays were risk factors for OL-UL drug use. Whether OL-UL drug use leads to a higher incidence of adverse drug reactions is a controversial finding. CONCLUSIONS OL-UL drug use is frequent in children. A standardized definition of OL-UL drug use is needed to better assess its frequency, risk factors and impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Moulis
- Department of medical and clinical pharmacology, Toulouse university hospital, faculty of medicine, 37, allées Jules-Guesde, 31000 Toulouse, France
| | - Geneviève Durrieu
- Department of medical and clinical pharmacology, Toulouse university hospital, faculty of medicine, 37, allées Jules-Guesde, 31000 Toulouse, France.
| | - Maryse Lapeyre-Mestre
- Department of medical and clinical pharmacology, Toulouse university hospital, faculty of medicine, 37, allées Jules-Guesde, 31000 Toulouse, France
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Carlier A, Vasilevich A, Marechal M, de Boer J, Geris L. In silico clinical trials for pediatric orphan diseases. Sci Rep 2018; 8:2465. [PMID: 29410461 PMCID: PMC5802824 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-20737-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
To date poor treatment options are available for patients with congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia (CPT), a pediatric orphan disease. In this study we have performed an in silico clinical trial on 200 virtual subjects, generated from a previously established model of murine bone regeneration, to tackle the challenges associated with the small, pediatric patient population. Each virtual subject was simulated to receive no treatment and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) treatment. We have shown that the degree of severity of CPT is significantly reduced with BMP treatment, although the effect is highly subject-specific. Using machine learning techniques we were also able to stratify the virtual subject population in adverse responders, non-responders, responders and asymptomatic. In summary, this study shows the potential of in silico medicine technologies as well as their implications for other orphan diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Carlier
- Biomechanics Section, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 300C, PB 2419, 3000 Leuven, Belgium and Biomechanics Research Unit, University of Liège, Chemin des Chevreuils 1 - BAT 52/3, 4000, Liège 1, Belgium.,Prometheus, Division of Skeletal Tissue Engineering, KU Leuven, O&N 1, Herestraat 49, PB 813, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.,MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - A Vasilevich
- MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - M Marechal
- Prometheus, Division of Skeletal Tissue Engineering, KU Leuven, O&N 1, Herestraat 49, PB 813, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.,Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, KU Leuven, O&N 1, Herestraat 49, PB 813, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - J de Boer
- MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - L Geris
- Biomechanics Section, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 300C, PB 2419, 3000 Leuven, Belgium and Biomechanics Research Unit, University of Liège, Chemin des Chevreuils 1 - BAT 52/3, 4000, Liège 1, Belgium. .,Prometheus, Division of Skeletal Tissue Engineering, KU Leuven, O&N 1, Herestraat 49, PB 813, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
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206
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The Conduct and Reporting of Child Health Research: An Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials Published in 2012 and Evaluation of Change over 5 Years. J Pediatr 2018; 193:237-244.e37. [PMID: 29169611 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2017.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Revised: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES For child health randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in 2012, we aimed to describe design and reporting characteristics and evaluate changes since 2007; assess the association between trial design and registration and risk of bias (RoB); and assess the association between RoB and effect size. STUDY DESIGN For 300 RCTs, we extracted design and reporting characteristics and assessed RoB. We assessed 5-year changes in design and reporting (based on 300 RCTs we had previously analyzed) using the Fisher exact test. We tested for associations between design and reporting characteristics and overall RoB and registration using the Fisher exact, Cochran-Armitage, Kruskal-Wallis, and Jonckheere-Terpstra tests. We pooled effect sizes and tested for differences by RoB using the χ2 test for subgroups in meta-analysis. RESULTS The 2012 and 2007 RCTs differed with respect to many design and reporting characteristics. From 2007 to 2012, RoB did not change for random sequence generation and improved for allocation concealment (P < .001). Fewer 2012 RCTs were rated high overall RoB and more were rated unclear (P = .03). Only 7.3% of 2012 RCTs were rated low overall RoB. Trial registration doubled from 2007 to 2012 (23% to 46%) (P < .001) and was associated with lower RoB (P = .009). Effect size did not differ by RoB (P = .43) CONCLUSIONS: Random sequence generation and allocation concealment were not often reported, and selective reporting was prevalent. Measures to increase trialists' awareness and application of existing reporting guidance, and the prospective registration of RCTs is needed to improve the trustworthiness of findings from this field.
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207
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Gates A, Caldwell P, Curtis S, Dans L, Fernandes RM, Hartling L, Kelly LE, Williams K, Woolfall K, Dyson MP. Consent and recruitment: the reporting of paediatric trials published in 2012. BMJ Paediatr Open 2018; 2:e000369. [PMID: 30555937 PMCID: PMC6267313 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2018-000369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We evaluated 300 paediatric trials to determine: the consent and recruitment strategies used, who trial information was targeted to, how incentives were used and if they achieved their recruitment targets. METHODS For this cross-sectional evaluation, we searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for paediatric trials published in 2012 and randomly selected 300 that reported on outcomes for participants aged ≤21 years. We collected data on consent and recruitment procedures for each trial and undertook descriptive analyses in SPSS statistics V.23. RESULTS All but one trial (99.7%) used a standard recruitment strategy. Most (92%) trials reported that consent was obtained but only 13% reported who obtained consent. Two-thirds (65%) of trials included school-aged participants, and of these 68% reported obtaining assent. Half (50%) of the trials reported who the trial information was targeted to. Most trials (75%) of school-aged participants targeted information towards children or children and their parents. Fourteen per cent of trials reported using incentives, half (50%) of which were in the form of compensation. Only 48% of trials reported sufficient data to determine if their recruitment targets were achieved. Of these, 70% achieved their targets. CONCLUSIONS Notable reporting shortcomings included: how families were recruited into the trial, who obtained consent and/or assent and how, who trial information was directed to, whether incentives were used and sufficient data to determine if the recruitment target was achieved. Forthcoming paediatric-specific reporting standards may improve reporting in this priority area. Our data provide a baseline for ongoing monitoring of the state of the research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Gates
- Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Patrina Caldwell
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health and Centre for Kidney Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sarah Curtis
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Leonila Dans
- Department of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ricardo M Fernandes
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Department of Pediatrics, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Norte, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Lisa Hartling
- Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Lauren E Kelly
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.,Clinical Trials Platform, George and Fay Yee Centre for Healthcare Innovation, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Katrina Williams
- Developmental Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Clinical Sciences, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kerry Woolfall
- Institute of Psychology, Health and Society, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Michele P Dyson
- Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Nevitt SJ, Sudell M, Weston J, Tudur Smith C, Marson AG. Antiepileptic drug monotherapy for epilepsy: a network meta-analysis of individual participant data. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2017; 12:CD011412. [PMID: 29243813 PMCID: PMC6486134 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011412.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy is a common neurological condition with a worldwide prevalence of around 1%. Approximately 60% to 70% of people with epilepsy will achieve a longer-term remission from seizures, and most achieve that remission shortly after starting antiepileptic drug treatment. Most people with epilepsy are treated with a single antiepileptic drug (monotherapy) and current guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in the United Kingdom for adults and children recommend carbamazepine or lamotrigine as first-line treatment for partial onset seizures and sodium valproate for generalised onset seizures; however a range of other antiepileptic drug (AED) treatments are available, and evidence is needed regarding their comparative effectiveness in order to inform treatment choices. OBJECTIVES To compare the time to withdrawal of allocated treatment, remission and first seizure of 10 AEDs (carbamazepine, phenytoin, sodium valproate, phenobarbitone, oxcarbazepine, lamotrigine, gabapentin, topiramate, levetiracetam, zonisamide) currently used as monotherapy in children and adults with partial onset seizures (simple partial, complex partial or secondary generalised) or generalised tonic-clonic seizures with or without other generalised seizure types (absence, myoclonus). SEARCH METHODS We searched the following databases: Cochrane Epilepsy's Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE and SCOPUS, and two clinical trials registers. We handsearched relevant journals and contacted pharmaceutical companies, original trial investigators, and experts in the field. The date of the most recent search was 27 July 2016. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials of a monotherapy design in adults or children with partial onset seizures or generalised onset tonic-clonic seizures (with or without other generalised seizure types). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS This was an individual participant data (IPD) review and network meta-analysis. Our primary outcome was 'time to withdrawal of allocated treatment', and our secondary outcomes were 'time to achieve 12-month remission', 'time to achieve six-month remission', 'time to first seizure post-randomisation', and 'occurrence of adverse events'. We presented all time-to-event outcomes as Cox proportional hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We performed pairwise meta-analysis of head-to-head comparisons between drugs within trials to obtain 'direct' treatment effect estimates and we performed frequentist network meta-analysis to combine direct evidence with indirect evidence across the treatment network of 10 drugs. We investigated inconsistency between direct estimates and network meta-analysis via node splitting. Due to variability in methods and detail of reporting adverse events, we have not performed an analysis. We have provided a narrative summary of the most commonly reported adverse events. MAIN RESULTS IPD was provided for at least one outcome of this review for 12,391 out of a total of 17,961 eligible participants (69% of total data) from 36 out of the 77 eligible trials (47% of total trials). We could not include IPD from the remaining 41 trials in analysis for a variety of reasons, such as being unable to contact an author or sponsor to request data, data being lost or no longer available, cost and resources required to prepare data being prohibitive, or local authority or country-specific restrictions.We were able to calculate direct treatment effect estimates for between half and two thirds of comparisons across the outcomes of the review, however for many of the comparisons, data were contributed by only a single trial or by a small number of participants, so confidence intervals of estimates were wide.Network meta-analysis showed that for the primary outcome 'Time to withdrawal of allocated treatment,' for individuals with partial seizures; levetiracetam performed (statistically) significantly better than current first-line treatment carbamazepine and other current first-line treatment lamotrigine performed better than all other treatments (aside from levetiracetam); carbamazepine performed significantly better than gabapentin and phenobarbitone (high-quality evidence). For individuals with generalised onset seizures, first-line treatment sodium valproate performed significantly better than carbamazepine, topiramate and phenobarbitone (moderate- to high-quality evidence). Furthermore, for both partial and generalised onset seizures, the earliest licenced treatment, phenobarbitone seems to perform worse than all other treatments (moderate- to high-quality evidence).Network meta-analysis also showed that for secondary outcomes 'Time to 12-month remission of seizures' and 'Time to six-month remission of seizures,' few notable differences were shown for either partial or generalised seizure types (moderate- to high-quality evidence). For secondary outcome 'Time to first seizure,' for individuals with partial seizures; phenobarbitone performed significantly better than both current first-line treatments carbamazepine and lamotrigine; carbamazepine performed significantly better than sodium valproate, gabapentin and lamotrigine. Phenytoin also performed significantly better than lamotrigine (high-quality evidence). In general, the earliest licenced treatments (phenytoin and phenobarbitone) performed better than the other treatments for both seizure types (moderate- to high-quality evidence).Generally, direct evidence and network meta-analysis estimates (direct plus indirect evidence) were numerically similar and consistent with confidence intervals of effect sizes overlapping.The most commonly reported adverse events across all drugs were drowsiness/fatigue, headache or migraine, gastrointestinal disturbances, dizziness/faintness and rash or skin disorders. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Overall, the high-quality evidence provided by this review supports current guidance (e.g. NICE) that carbamazepine and lamotrigine are suitable first-line treatments for individuals with partial onset seizures and also demonstrates that levetiracetam may be a suitable alternative. High-quality evidence from this review also supports the use of sodium valproate as the first-line treatment for individuals with generalised tonic-clonic seizures (with or without other generalised seizure types) and also demonstrates that lamotrigine and levetiracetam would be suitable alternatives to either of these first-line treatments, particularly for those of childbearing potential, for whom sodium valproate may not be an appropriate treatment option due to teratogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Nevitt
- University of LiverpoolDepartment of BiostatisticsBlock F, Waterhouse Building1‐5 Brownlow HillLiverpoolUKL69 3GL
| | - Maria Sudell
- University of LiverpoolDepartment of BiostatisticsBlock F, Waterhouse Building1‐5 Brownlow HillLiverpoolUKL69 3GL
| | - Jennifer Weston
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of LiverpoolDepartment of Molecular and Clinical PharmacologyClinical Sciences Centre for Research and Education, Lower LaneFazakerleyLiverpoolMerseysideUKL9 7LJ
| | - Catrin Tudur Smith
- University of LiverpoolDepartment of BiostatisticsBlock F, Waterhouse Building1‐5 Brownlow HillLiverpoolUKL69 3GL
| | - Anthony G Marson
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of LiverpoolDepartment of Molecular and Clinical PharmacologyClinical Sciences Centre for Research and Education, Lower LaneFazakerleyLiverpoolMerseysideUKL9 7LJ
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Choi SN, Lee JH, Song IK, Kim EH, Kim JT, Kim HS. Pediatric Clinical Trials Conducted in South Korea from 2006 to 2015: An Analysis of the South Korean Clinical Research Information Service, US ClinicalTrials.gov and European Clinical Trials Registries. Paediatr Drugs 2017; 19:569-575. [PMID: 28770450 DOI: 10.1007/s40272-017-0252-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The status of pediatric clinical trials performed in South Korea in the last decade, including clinical trials of drugs with unapproved indications for children, has not been previously examined. OBJECTIVE The aim was to provide information regarding the current state of pediatric clinical trials and create a basis for future trials performed in South Korea by reviewing three databases of clinical trials registrations. METHODS We searched for pediatric clinical studies (participants <18 years old) conducted in South Korea between 2006 and 2015 registered on the Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS), ClinicalTrials.gov, and the European Clinical Trials Registry (EuCTR). Additionally, we reviewed whether unapproved indications were involved in each trial by comparing the trials with a list of authorized trials provided by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS). The primary and secondary outcomes were to determine the change in number of pediatric clinical trials with unapproved indications over time and to assess the status of unauthorized pediatric clinical trials from the MFDS and the publication of articles after these clinical trials, respectively. RESULTS We identified 342 clinical studies registered in the CRIS (n = 81), ClinicalTrials.gov (n = 225), and EuCTR (n = 36), of which 306 were reviewed after excluding duplicate registrations. Among them, 181 studies were interventional trials dealing with drugs and biological agents, of which 129 (71.3%) involved unapproved drugs. Of these 129 trials, 107 (82.9%) were authorized by the MFDS. CONCLUSIONS Pediatric clinical trials in South Korea aiming to establish the safety and efficacy of drugs in children are increasing; however, non-MFDS-authorized studies remain an issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheung-Nyoung Choi
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, #101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, 03080, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Hyun Lee
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, #101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, 03080, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Kyung Song
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, #101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, 03080, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Hee Kim
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, #101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, 03080, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Tae Kim
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, #101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, 03080, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Soo Kim
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, #101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, 03080, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Gautier I, Janiaud P, Rollet N, André N, Tsimaratos M, Cornu C, Malik S, Gentile S, Kassaï B. Trends in the number and the quality of trial protocols involving children submitted to a French Institutional Review Board. BMC Med Res Methodol 2017; 17:130. [PMID: 28835231 PMCID: PMC5569539 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-017-0395-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There is a great need for high quality clinical research for children. The European Pediatric Regulation aimed to improve the quality of clinical trials in order to increase the availability of treatments for children. The main purpose of this study was to assess the evolution of both the number and the quality of pediatric trial protocols that were submitted to a French Institutional Review Board (IRB00009118) before and after the initiation of the EU Pediatric Regulation. Methods All protocols submitted to the IRB00009118 between 2003 and 2014 and conducting research on subjects under eighteen years of age were eligible. The quality of randomized clinical trials was assessed according to the guidelines developed by the Enhancing the QUAlity and Transparency Of health Research (EQUATOR) Network and ranked using the Jadad score. Results Out of 622 protocols submitted to the Institutional Review Board (IRB), 21% (133/622) included children. Among these 133 pediatric protocols, the number of submitted pediatric protocols doubled between the two studied periods. From 2003 to 2008, 47 protocols including 21 institutionally sponsored were submitted to the IRB and from 2009 until 2014, 86 protocols including 48 institutionally sponsored were submitted. No significant trend was observed on the quality of RCTs. The overall median score of RCTs on the Jadad scale was high (3.5), 70.0% of protocols had a Jadad score ≥ 3, and 30.0% had a score < 3. Conclusion Following the EU Pediatric Regulation, the number of pediatric protocols submitted to the IRB00009118 tends to increase, but no change was noticed regarding their quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Gautier
- Centre d'investigation Clinique Pédiatrique, INSERM CIC 9502, Hôpital d'Enfants de la Timone, AP-HM, 264, rue Saint-Pierre, 13005, Marseille, France. .,EA3279 - Santé Publique: Maladies Chroniques et Qualité de Vie, Aix-Marseille Université, 13385, Marseille, France.
| | - Perrine Janiaud
- Evolutive Biology and Biometric Laboratory UMR5558 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 8 rue Guillaume Paradin, BP8071, 69376-CEDEX-08, Lyon, France
| | - Nelly Rollet
- Evolutive Biology and Biometric Laboratory UMR5558 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 8 rue Guillaume Paradin, BP8071, 69376-CEDEX-08, Lyon, France
| | - Nicolas André
- Centre d'investigation Clinique Pédiatrique, INSERM CIC 9502, Hôpital d'Enfants de la Timone, AP-HM, 264, rue Saint-Pierre, 13005, Marseille, France
| | - Michel Tsimaratos
- Centre d'investigation Clinique Pédiatrique, INSERM CIC 9502, Hôpital d'Enfants de la Timone, AP-HM, 264, rue Saint-Pierre, 13005, Marseille, France
| | - Catherine Cornu
- Evolutive Biology and Biometric Laboratory UMR5558 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 8 rue Guillaume Paradin, BP8071, 69376-CEDEX-08, Lyon, France.,EPICIME, Centre d'Investigation Clinique, INSERM CIC 1407, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 28 Avenue du Doyen Lépine, 69677-CEDEX, Bron, France
| | - Salma Malik
- Evolutive Biology and Biometric Laboratory UMR5558 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 8 rue Guillaume Paradin, BP8071, 69376-CEDEX-08, Lyon, France.,EPICIME, Centre d'Investigation Clinique, INSERM CIC 1407, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 28 Avenue du Doyen Lépine, 69677-CEDEX, Bron, France
| | - Stéphanie Gentile
- EA3279 - Santé Publique: Maladies Chroniques et Qualité de Vie, Aix-Marseille Université, 13385, Marseille, France
| | - Behrouz Kassaï
- Evolutive Biology and Biometric Laboratory UMR5558 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 8 rue Guillaume Paradin, BP8071, 69376-CEDEX-08, Lyon, France.,EPICIME, Centre d'Investigation Clinique, INSERM CIC 1407, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 28 Avenue du Doyen Lépine, 69677-CEDEX, Bron, France
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211
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Khabour OF, Alomari MA, Al-Sheyab NA. Parental Perceptions About Informed Consent/Assent in Pediatric Research in Jordan. J Empir Res Hum Res Ethics 2017; 12:261-268. [PMID: 28697643 DOI: 10.1177/1556264617718937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The informed consent/assent process during enrollment in pediatric research is integral to protecting children from possible harm. Here we explored parents' perceptions about the informed consent/assent process in Jordan. Therefore, focus group interviews were conducted that focused on the importance of consent/assent, the quality of the information provided during consent process, and the parents' perceptions toward written/verbal informed consent. Content thematic analysis approach was adopted in the transcription and translation processes of the interviews. The majority of parents have an ethically acceptable understanding of many of the aspects related to consent/assent; however, some views were not consistent with the proper conduct of research. For example, some parents believed that informed consent is not required for questionnaire studies. Discrepancies were also noted regarding the appropriate age of a child's assent. Some parents would force their child to participate. Thus, the development of Jordanian, culturally sensitive pediatric research guidelines is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar F Khabour
- 1 Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | | | - Nihaya A Al-Sheyab
- 1 Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
- 2 The University of Sydney, Australia
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212
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Chong LSH, Sautenet B, Tong A, Hanson CS, Samuel S, Zappitelli M, Dart A, Furth S, Eddy AA, Groothoff J, Webb NJA, Yap HK, Bockenhauer D, Sinha A, Alexander SI, Goldstein SL, Gipson DS, Raman G, Craig JC. Range and Heterogeneity of Outcomes in Randomized Trials of Pediatric Chronic Kidney Disease. J Pediatr 2017; 186:110-117.e11. [PMID: 28449820 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2017.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Revised: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 03/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the range and heterogeneity of outcomes reported in randomized controlled trials of interventions for children with chronic kidney disease (CKD). STUDY DESIGN The Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Specialized Register was searched to March 2016. Randomized trials involving children across all stages of CKD were selected. All outcome domains and measurements were extracted from included trials. The frequency and characteristics of the outcome domains and measures were evaluated. RESULTS From 205 trials included, 6158 different measurements of 100 different outcome domains were reported, with a median of 22 domains per trial (IQR 13-41). Overall, 52 domains (52%) were surrogate, 38 (38%) were clinical, and 10 (10%) were patient-reported. The 5 most commonly reported domains were blood pressure (76 [37%] trials), relapse/remission (70 [34%]), kidney function (66 [32%]), infection (61 [30%]), and height/pubertal development (51 [25%]). Mortality (14%), cardiovascular disease (4%), and quality of life (1%) were reported infrequently. The 2 most frequently reported outcomes, blood pressure and relapse/remission, had 56 and 81 different outcome measures, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The outcomes reported in clinical trials involving children with CKD are extremely heterogeneous and are most often surrogate outcomes, rather than clinical and patient-centered outcomes such as cardiovascular disease and quality of life. Efforts to ensure consistent reporting of outcomes that are important to patients and clinicians will improve the value of trials to guide clinical decision-making. In our study, non-English articles were excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren S H Chong
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - Benedicte Sautenet
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia; University Francois Rabelais, Tours, France; Department of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, Tours Hospital, Tours, France; INSERM (U1153), Paris, France
| | - Allison Tong
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Camilla S Hanson
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - Susan Samuel
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Nephrology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Michael Zappitelli
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Allison Dart
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, The Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Susan Furth
- Departments of Pediatrics and Epidemiology, Perelman School of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Allison A Eddy
- Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia and the British Columbia Children's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Jaap Groothoff
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Emma Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nicholas J A Webb
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology and National Institute for Health Research/Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Hui-Kim Yap
- Department of Pediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Detlef Bockenhauer
- University College London Centre for Nephrology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aditi Sinha
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, India
| | - Stephen I Alexander
- Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - Stuart L Goldstein
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Debbie S Gipson
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Gayathri Raman
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jonathan C Craig
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
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Joseph PD, Caldwell PH, Barnes EH, Craig JC. Disease burden-research match? Registered trials in child health from low- and middle-income and high-income countries. J Paediatr Child Health 2017; 53:667-674. [PMID: 28383200 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.13537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Revised: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to determine whether there is a match between the health problems that children face and the clinical trials that are being conducted, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). METHODS All trials on the World Health Organisation International Clinical Trials Registry Platform registered from 2005 to 2013 were reviewed. The disease-specific focus of registered trials for children was compared to the global burden of disease for 2011 using World Health Organisation disability-adjusted life-year data. RESULTS Children account for 34% of the global disease burden, but were represented in only 15% (29 899/203 726) of registered trials. Although the number of trials in children registered annually has increased over time (from 3174 in 2005 to 3392 in 2013), the proportion of trials involving children has decreased (from 18 to 13%). LMICs account for 98% of the disease burden among children world-wide, but only 22% of trials. More trials were registered in high-income countries than in LMICs for the majority of the disease categories. There was moderate correlation between the number of trials and the burden of each disease within each region (Spearman's correlation r = 0.6, P = 0.007 and r = 0.55, P = 0.02 in LMICs and high-income countries, respectively). CONCLUSION Overall, children continue to be under-represented in clinical trials, particularly children from LMICs where disease burden is greatest. Clinical trial activity correlates moderately with disease burden among the world's children. A more evidence-informed approach for prioritising trials to specifically address the health-care needs of children is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pathma D Joseph
- The Pharmacy Department, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Centre for Kidney Research, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Patrina Hy Caldwell
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Centre for Kidney Research, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elizabeth H Barnes
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jonathan C Craig
- Centre for Kidney Research, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Nevitt SJ, Sudell M, Weston J, Tudur Smith C, Marson AG. Antiepileptic drug monotherapy for epilepsy: a network meta-analysis of individual participant data. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2017; 6:CD011412. [PMID: 28661008 PMCID: PMC6481892 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011412.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy is a common neurological condition with a worldwide prevalence of around 1%. Approximately 60% to 70% of people with epilepsy will achieve a longer-term remission from seizures, and most achieve that remission shortly after starting antiepileptic drug treatment. Most people with epilepsy are treated with a single antiepileptic drug (monotherapy) and current guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in the United Kingdom for adults and children recommend carbamazepine or lamotrigine as first-line treatment for partial onset seizures and sodium valproate for generalised onset seizures; however a range of other antiepileptic drug (AED) treatments are available, and evidence is needed regarding their comparative effectiveness in order to inform treatment choices. OBJECTIVES To compare the time to withdrawal of allocated treatment, remission and first seizure of 10 AEDs (carbamazepine, phenytoin, sodium valproate, phenobarbitone, oxcarbazepine, lamotrigine, gabapentin, topiramate, levetiracetam, zonisamide) currently used as monotherapy in children and adults with partial onset seizures (simple partial, complex partial or secondary generalised) or generalised tonic-clonic seizures with or without other generalised seizure types (absence, myoclonus). SEARCH METHODS We searched the following databases: Cochrane Epilepsy's Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE and SCOPUS, and two clinical trials registers. We handsearched relevant journals and contacted pharmaceutical companies, original trial investigators, and experts in the field. The date of the most recent search was 27 July 2016. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials of a monotherapy design in adults or children with partial onset seizures or generalised onset tonic-clonic seizures (with or without other generalised seizure types). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS This was an individual participant data (IPD) review and network meta-analysis. Our primary outcome was 'time to withdrawal of allocated treatment', and our secondary outcomes were 'time to achieve 12-month remission', 'time to achieve six-month remission', 'time to first seizure post-randomisation', and 'occurrence of adverse events'. We presented all time-to-event outcomes as Cox proportional hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We performed pairwise meta-analysis of head-to-head comparisons between drugs within trials to obtain 'direct' treatment effect estimates and we performed frequentist network meta-analysis to combine direct evidence with indirect evidence across the treatment network of 10 drugs. We investigated inconsistency between direct estimates and network meta-analysis via node splitting. Due to variability in methods and detail of reporting adverse events, we have not performed an analysis. We have provided a narrative summary of the most commonly reported adverse events. MAIN RESULTS IPD was provided for at least one outcome of this review for 12,391 out of a total of 17,961 eligible participants (69% of total data) from 36 out of the 77 eligible trials (47% of total trials). We could not include IPD from the remaining 41 trials in analysis for a variety of reasons, such as being unable to contact an author or sponsor to request data, data being lost or no longer available, cost and resources required to prepare data being prohibitive, or local authority or country-specific restrictions.We were able to calculate direct treatment effect estimates for between half and two thirds of comparisons across the outcomes of the review, however for many of the comparisons, data were contributed by only a single trial or by a small number of participants, so confidence intervals of estimates were wide.Network meta-analysis showed that for the primary outcome 'Time to withdrawal of allocated treatment,' for individuals with partial seizures; levetiracetam performed (statistically) significantly better than both current first-line treatments carbamazepine and lamotrigine; lamotrigine performed better than all other treatments (aside from levetiracetam), and carbamazepine performed significantly better than gabapentin and phenobarbitone (high-quality evidence). For individuals with generalised onset seizures, first-line treatment sodium valproate performed significantly better than carbamazepine, topiramate and phenobarbitone (moderate- to high-quality evidence). Furthermore, for both partial and generalised onset seizures, the earliest licenced treatment, phenobarbitone seems to perform worse than all other treatments (moderate- to high-quality evidence).Network meta-analysis also showed that for secondary outcomes 'Time to 12-month remission of seizures' and 'Time to six-month remission of seizures,' few notable differences were shown for either partial or generalised seizure types (moderate- to high-quality evidence). For secondary outcome 'Time to first seizure,' for individuals with partial seizures; phenobarbitone performed significantly better than both current first-line treatments carbamazepine and lamotrigine; carbamazepine performed significantly better than sodium valproate, gabapentin and lamotrigine. Phenytoin also performed significantly better than lamotrigine (high-quality evidence). In general, the earliest licenced treatments (phenytoin and phenobarbitone) performed better than the other treatments for both seizure types (moderate- to high-quality evidence).Generally, direct evidence and network meta-analysis estimates (direct plus indirect evidence) were numerically similar and consistent with confidence intervals of effect sizes overlapping.The most commonly reported adverse events across all drugs were drowsiness/fatigue, headache or migraine, gastrointestinal disturbances, dizziness/faintness and rash or skin disorders. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Overall, the high-quality evidence provided by this review supports current guidance (e.g. NICE) that carbamazepine and lamotrigine are suitable first-line treatments for individuals with partial onset seizures and also demonstrates that levetiracetam may be a suitable alternative. High-quality evidence from this review also supports the use of sodium valproate as the first-line treatment for individuals with generalised tonic-clonic seizures (with or without other generalised seizure types) and also demonstrates that lamotrigine and levetiracetam would be suitable alternatives to either of these first-line treatments, particularly for those of childbearing potential, for whom sodium valproate may not be an appropriate treatment option due to teratogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Nevitt
- University of LiverpoolDepartment of BiostatisticsBlock F, Waterhouse Building1‐5 Brownlow HillLiverpoolUKL69 3GL
| | - Maria Sudell
- University of LiverpoolDepartment of BiostatisticsBlock F, Waterhouse Building1‐5 Brownlow HillLiverpoolUKL69 3GL
| | - Jennifer Weston
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of LiverpoolDepartment of Molecular and Clinical PharmacologyClinical Sciences Centre for Research and Education, Lower LaneFazakerleyLiverpoolUKL9 7LJ
| | - Catrin Tudur Smith
- University of LiverpoolDepartment of BiostatisticsBlock F, Waterhouse Building1‐5 Brownlow HillLiverpoolUKL69 3GL
| | - Anthony G Marson
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of LiverpoolDepartment of Molecular and Clinical PharmacologyClinical Sciences Centre for Research and Education, Lower LaneFazakerleyLiverpoolUKL9 7LJ
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Martin-Kerry J, Bower P, Young B, Graffy J, Sheridan R, Watt I, Baines P, Stones C, Preston J, Higgins S, Gamble C, Knapp P. Developing and evaluating multimedia information resources to improve engagement of children, adolescents, and their parents with trials (TRECA study): Study protocol for a series of linked randomised controlled trials. Trials 2017; 18:265. [PMID: 28595613 PMCID: PMC5465557 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-017-1962-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Randomised controlled trials are widely established as the best method for testing health interventions whilst minimising bias. However, recruitment and subsequent retention of children and adolescents in healthcare trials is challenging. Participant information sheets are often lengthy and difficult to read and understand. Presenting key information using multimedia may help to overcome these limitations and better support young people and their parents in deciding whether to participate in a clinical trial. Methods The TRECA (TRials Engagement in Children and Adolescents) study has two phases. The first phase involves a qualitative study with children and adolescents and their parents to inform the development of multimedia information resources and iterative user testing to refine the resources. The second phase will embed the use of the multimedia information resources into six host trials in the United Kingdom. Patients and parents approached to participate in the host trials will be randomly allocated to either use the multimedia information resource in conjunction with standard participant information sheets, the multimedia information resource alone, or the standard participant information sheets alone. The primary outcome will be the effect of the multimedia information resources on recruitment into trials. Other outcomes measured include the effect of multimedia information resources on retention of participants into the host trials and the impact on family members’ decision-making processes, when compared to standard participant information sheets alone. Discussion This study will inform whether multimedia information resources, when developed using participatory design principles, are able to increase recruitment and retention of children and adolescents into trials. There is also the potential for patients to make better informed decisions through the use of multimedia information resources. The multimedia information resources also have the potential to assist with providing information on other healthcare decisions outside of clinical trials. Trial registration ISRCTN registry: ISRCTN73136092 (doi:10.1186/ISRCTN73136092). Registered on 24 August 2016. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13063-017-1962-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Bower
- MRC North West Hub for Trials Methodology Research, NIHR School for Primary Care Research, University of Manchester, M13 9PL, Manchester, UK
| | - Bridget Young
- MRC North West Hub for Trials Methodology Research, Department of Psychological Sciences, Institute of Psychology, Health and Society, University of Liverpool, L69 3GB, Liverpool, UK
| | - Jonathan Graffy
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Institute of Public Health, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, CB2 0SR, Cambridge, UK
| | - Rebecca Sheridan
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, Heslington, YO10 5DD, York, UK
| | - Ian Watt
- Department of Health Sciences and the Hull York Medical School, University of York, Heslington, YO10 5DD, York, UK
| | - Paul Baines
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Alder Hey Hospital, L12 2AP, Liverpool, UK
| | - Catherine Stones
- School of Design, Clothworkers' Central, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT, Leeds, UK
| | - Jennifer Preston
- NIHR Alder Hey Clinical Research Facility, University of Liverpool, Institute in the Park, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Eaton Rd, L12 2AP, Liverpool, UK
| | - Steven Higgins
- School of Education, University of Durham, DH1 3LE, Durham, UK
| | - Carrol Gamble
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, L69 3GB, Liverpool, UK
| | - Peter Knapp
- Department of Health Sciences and the Hull York Medical School, University of York, Heslington, YO10 5DD, York, UK.
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216
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Schandelmaier S, Tomonaga Y, Bassler D, Meerpohl JJ, von Elm E, You JJ, Bluemle A, Lamontagne F, Saccilotto R, Amstutz A, Bengough T, Stegert M, Olu KK, Tikkinen KAO, Neumann I, Carrasco-Labra A, Faulhaber M, Mulla SM, Mertz D, Akl EA, Sun X, Busse JW, Ferreira-González I, Nordmann A, Gloy V, Raatz H, Moja L, Rosenthal R, Ebrahim S, Vandvik PO, Johnston BC, Walter MA, Burnand B, Schwenkglenks M, Hemkens LG, Guyatt G, Bucher HC, Kasenda B, Briel M. Premature Discontinuation of Pediatric Randomized Controlled Trials: A Retrospective Cohort Study. J Pediatr 2017; 184:209-214.e1. [PMID: 28410086 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2017.01.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Revised: 12/30/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the proportion of pediatric randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that are prematurely discontinued, examine the reasons for discontinuation, and compare the risk for recruitment failure in pediatric and adult RCTs. STUDY DESIGN A retrospective cohort study of RCTs approved by 1 of 6 Research Ethics Committees (RECs) in Switzerland, Germany, and Canada between 2000 and 2003. We recorded trial characteristics, trial discontinuation, and reasons for discontinuation from protocols, corresponding publications, REC files, and a survey of trialists. RESULTS We included 894 RCTs, of which 86 enrolled children and 808 enrolled adults. Forty percent of the pediatric RCTs and 29% of the adult RCTs were discontinued. Slow recruitment accounted for 56% of pediatric RCT discontinuations and 43% of adult RCT discontinuations. Multivariable logistic regression analyses suggested that pediatric RCT was not an independent risk factor for recruitment failure after adjustment for other potential risk factors (aOR, 1.22; 95% CI, 0.57-2.63). Independent risk factors were acute care setting (aOR, 4.00; 95% CI, 1.72-9.31), nonindustry sponsorship (aOR, 4.45; 95% CI, 2.59-7.65), and smaller planned sample size (aOR, 1.05; 95% CI 1.01-1.09, in decrements of 100 participants). CONCLUSION Forty percent of pediatric RCTs were discontinued prematurely, owing predominately to slow recruitment. Enrollment of children was not an independent risk factor for recruitment failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Schandelmaier
- Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Academy of Swiss Insurance Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Yuki Tomonaga
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dirk Bassler
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Joerg J Meerpohl
- German Cochrane Centre, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Center of Research in Epidemiology and Statistics Sorbonne Paris Cité-U1153, INSERM/Université Paris Descartes, Cochrane France, Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu, Paris Cedex 04, France
| | - Erik von Elm
- Cochrane Switzerland, Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - John J You
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Anette Bluemle
- German Cochrane Centre, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Francois Lamontagne
- Centre de Recherche Clinique du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Ramon Saccilotto
- Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Alain Amstutz
- Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Theresa Bengough
- Department of Health and Society, Austrian Federal Institute for Health Care, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mihaela Stegert
- Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kelechi K Olu
- Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kari A O Tikkinen
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Departments of Urology and Public Health, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ignacio Neumann
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Department of Internal Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alonso Carrasco-Labra
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Evidence-Based Dentistry Unit, Faculty of Dentistry, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Markus Faulhaber
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Sohail M Mulla
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Dominik Mertz
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Diseases Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Elie A Akl
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Xin Sun
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Chinese Evidence-based Medicine Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jason W Busse
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Department of Anesthesia, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Pain Research and Care, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Ignacio Ferreira-González
- Epidemiology Unit, Department of Cardiology, Vall d'Hebron Hospital and CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Publica (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alain Nordmann
- Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Viktoria Gloy
- Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Institute of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Heike Raatz
- Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lorenzo Moja
- IRCCS Orthopedic Institute Galeazzi, Milano, Italy
| | - Rachel Rosenthal
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Shanil Ebrahim
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Department of Anesthesia, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Stanford Prevention Research Center, Stanford University, Stanford, CA
| | - Per O Vandvik
- Department of Medicine, Innlandet Hospital Trust-Division Gjøvik, Oppland, Norway
| | - Bradley C Johnston
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Martin A Walter
- Institute of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Bernard Burnand
- Cochrane Switzerland, Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Schwenkglenks
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lars G Hemkens
- Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gordon Guyatt
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Heiner C Bucher
- Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin Kasenda
- Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Haematology/Oncology and Palliative Care, Klinikum Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Matthias Briel
- Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Ishiguro A, Sasaki H, Yahagi N, Kato H, Kure S, Mori R. Needs assessment for collaborative network in pediatric clinical research and education. Pediatr Int 2017; 59:74-79. [PMID: 27273620 DOI: 10.1111/ped.13050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2015] [Revised: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A collaborative network for pediatric research has not been fully established in Japan. To identify the network infrastructure, we conducted a survey on the support and education for clinical research currently available in children's hospitals. METHODS In November 2014, a 27-question survey was distributed to 31 hospitals belonging to the Japanese Association of Children's Hospitals and Related Institutions (JACHRI) to assess clinical research support, research education, research achievements, and their expectations. RESULTS All the hospitals responded to the survey. Overall, 74.2% of hospitals had clinical research support divisions. Although all hospitals had ethics committees, <30% of the hospitals had a data manager, intellectual property management unit, biostatistician, and English-language editor. Seven hospitals had education programs for clinical research. The number of seminars and workshops for clinical research had significant correlations with the number of physicians (r = 0.927), pediatricians (r = 0.922), and clinical trial management physicians (r = 0.962). There was a significant difference in the number of clinical trials initiated by physicians between hospitals with research education programs and those without (P < 0.01). The number of education programs was significantly correlated with the number of original articles and case reports in English (r = 0.788), and the number of publications in Japanese (r = 0.648). All hospitals recognized the need for a leader to establish a collaborative network for clinical research. CONCLUSIONS Important factors for creating a collaborative system for pediatric research in Japan were identified. Human resources to support clinical research are a key factor to improve clinical research education and research achievements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akira Ishiguro
- Department of Postgraduate Education and Training, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hatoko Sasaki
- Department of Health Policy, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naohisa Yahagi
- Division of Clinical Research, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Kato
- Division of Cardiology, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shigeo Kure
- Department of Pediatrics, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Rintaro Mori
- Department of Health Policy, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
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218
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De Bruyne P, Christiaens T, Boussery K, Mehuys E, Van Winckel M. Are antihistamines effective in children? A review of the evidence. Arch Dis Child 2017; 102:56-60. [PMID: 27335428 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2015-310416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2015] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS During the last decades, much attention has been paid to off-label and unlicensed prescriptions in paediatrics. However, on-label prescribing can also cause health issues. In this paper, the case of first-generation H1-antihistamines is investigated, notably the range of indications for which products are licensed in different European countries and the evidence base (or lack thereof) for each indication, as well as reported adverse drug reactions. METHODS Review of the Summary of Product Characteristics of first-generation H1-antihistamines with a focus on paediatric use. This is plotted against the evidence available in the literature. RESULTS This investigation shows a large variability in labelled indications and licensing ages when compared in five different European countries. Moreover, most of the indications are not based on clinical trials evaluating efficacy and safety of these drugs in children. CONCLUSIONS Many of the licensed indications of first-generation antihistamines do not appear to be evidence based.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline De Bruyne
- Department of Paediatrics and Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Thierry Christiaens
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Health Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Heymans Institute of Pharmacology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Koen Boussery
- Pharmaceutical Care Unit, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Els Mehuys
- Pharmaceutical Care Unit, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Myriam Van Winckel
- Department of Paediatrics and Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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219
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Nimbalkar SM, Patel DV, Phatak AG. Are Parents of Preschool Children Inclined to Give Consent for Participation in Nutritional Clinical Trials? PLoS One 2016; 11:e0163502. [PMID: 27732680 PMCID: PMC5061353 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0163502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Micronutrient deficiencies can lead to anemia, growth restriction, and poor motor and cognitive development. A clinical trial was planned to assess the impact of nutritional supplementation on cognitive measures in preschool children. Conducting clinical trials in children is difficult due to underlying laws, hesitation of the research community, and difficult enrollment. We carried out a questionnaire-based feasibility survey to assess the interest of parents towards participation in such a nutrition-based study. Methods After approval from the Institutional Human Research Ethics Committee, the principals of four kindergarten schools at Vallabh Vidyanagar, Anand, Gujarat, India consented to participate. Children at the participating schools were distributed a consent form and pre-tested questionnaire, to be taken home for parents to sign, fill and return. Results Out of a total of 1049 consent forms and questionnaires distributed, 602 (57.39%) signed and filled forms were returned. Despite fair awareness regarding the need of research, parents’ willingness to involve their children in a 6 month duration research study, not requiring invasive measures like blood pricks, was 180 (29.9%). Nearly half (250, 41.5%) did not respond and more than a quarter (172, 28.6%) declined participation on behalf of their children. Conclusion The interest level of a pre-school child's parents for participation of the child in a nutrition intervention study evaluating cognitive measures like memory is low. Understanding the study population’s motivating and inhibiting factors leading to decreased participation in clinical trials is necessary to facilitate the creation of a pertinent evidence base.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dipen Vasudev Patel
- Department of Pediatrics, Shree Krishna Hospital, Pramukhswami Medical College, Karamsad, Anand, Gujarat, India
| | - Ajay Gajanan Phatak
- Central Research Services, Charutar Arogya Mandal, Karamsad, Anand, Gujarat, India
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220
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Joseph PD, Craig JC, Tong A, Caldwell PHY. Researchers', Regulators', and Sponsors' Views on Pediatric Clinical Trials: A Multinational Study. Pediatrics 2016; 138:peds.2016-1171. [PMID: 27940891 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2016-1171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The last decade has seen dramatic changes in the regulatory landscape to support more trials involving children, but child-specific challenges and inequitable conduct across income regions persist. The goal of this study was to describe the attitudes and opinions of stakeholders toward trials in children, to inform additional strategies to promote more high-quality, relevant pediatric trials across the globe. METHODS Key informant semi-structured interviews were conducted with stakeholders (researchers, regulators, and sponsors) who were purposively sampled from low- to middle-income countries and high-income countries. The transcripts were thematically analyzed. RESULTS Thirty-five stakeholders from 10 countries were interviewed. Five major themes were identified: addressing pervasive inequities (paucity of safety and efficacy data, knowledge disparities, volatile environment, double standards, contextual relevance, market-driven forces, industry sponsorship bias and prohibitive costs); contending with infrastructural barriers (resource constraints, dearth of pediatric trial expertise, and logistical complexities); navigating complex ethical and regulatory frameworks ("draconian" oversight, ambiguous requirements, exploitation, excessive paternalism and precariousness of coercion versus volunteerism); respecting uniqueness of children (pediatric research paradigms, child-appropriate approaches, and family-centered empowerment); and driving evidence-based child health (advocacy, opportunities, treatment access, best practices, and research prioritization). CONCLUSIONS Stakeholders acknowledge that changes in the regulatory environment have encouraged more trials in children, but they contend that inequities and political, regulatory, and resource barriers continue to exist. Embedding trials as part of routine clinical care, addressing the unique needs of children, and streamlining regulatory approvals were suggested. Stakeholders recommended increasing international collaboration, establishing centralized trials infrastructure, and aligning research to child health priorities to encourage trials that address global child health care needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pathma D Joseph
- Centre for Kidney Research and .,The Pharmacy Department, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia; and.,Discipline of Adolescent and Child Health and
| | - Jonathan C Craig
- Centre for Kidney Research and.,School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Allison Tong
- Centre for Kidney Research and.,School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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221
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Hüttner FJ, Diener MK. Sutures and surgical site infections: children versus adults and single centre versus multicentre trials. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2016; 17:3-4. [PMID: 27658561 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(16)30317-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Felix J Hüttner
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplantation Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Study Center of the German Surgical Society, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Markus K Diener
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplantation Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Study Center of the German Surgical Society, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
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222
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Khan S, Rathore V, Khan S. New Horizons in Pediatric Psychopharmacology. Drug Dev Res 2016; 77:474-478. [PMID: 27633258 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Preclinical Research Recent advances in pediatric psychopharmacology have been rather uneven. Increased use of psychotropic drugs among the pediatric population has raised concerns regarding their inappropriate use and safety. While clinical trials have been conducted on various pediatric psychopharmacological drugs, there has been an insignificant amount of importance to innovation in holistic treatment. A rational approach toward elucidating the various challenges would be contingent on the convergence of the development of novel efficacious psychotropic drugs with concrete conceptual frameworks and guidelines fostering enhanced outcomes. A research infrastructure concerning the relevance of the clinician's perspective, combining drugs with alternative therapies, the need for pediatric specific formulations and relevance of these in developing countries provides a basis on which innovative treatment/development can be constructed. The current commentary highlights these comprehensive and targeted treatment guidelines as aspects necessary for building the future of the field. Drug Dev Res 77 : 474-478, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Khan
- National Brain Research Center, Manesar, Gurgaon, 122051, India
| | | | - Shahida Khan
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80216, Jeddah, 21589, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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223
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Brussee JM, Calvier EAM, Krekels EHJ, Välitalo PAJ, Tibboel D, Allegaert K, Knibbe CAJ. Children in clinical trials: towards evidence-based pediatric pharmacotherapy using pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic modeling. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2016; 9:1235-44. [PMID: 27269200 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2016.1198256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In pediatric pharmacotherapy, many drugs are still used off-label, and their efficacy and safety is not well characterized. Different efficacy and safety profiles in children of varying ages may be anticipated, due to developmental changes occurring across pediatric life. AREAS COVERED Beside pharmacokinetic (PK) studies, pharmacodynamic (PD) studies are urgently needed. Validated PKPD models can be used to derive optimal dosing regimens for children of different ages, which can be evaluated in a prospective study before implementation in clinical practice. Strategies should be developed to ensure that formularies update their drug dosing guidelines regularly according to the most recent advances in research, allowing for clinicians to integrate these guidelines in daily practice. Expert commentary: We anticipate a trend towards a systems-level approach in pediatric modeling to optimally use the information gained in pediatric trials. For this approach, properly designed clinical PKPD studies will remain the backbone of pediatric research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janneke M Brussee
- a Division of Pharmacology, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research , Leiden University , Leiden , The Netherlands
| | - Elisa A M Calvier
- a Division of Pharmacology, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research , Leiden University , Leiden , The Netherlands
| | - Elke H J Krekels
- a Division of Pharmacology, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research , Leiden University , Leiden , The Netherlands
| | - Pyry A J Välitalo
- a Division of Pharmacology, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research , Leiden University , Leiden , The Netherlands
| | - Dick Tibboel
- b Intensive Care and Department of Surgery , Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital , Rotterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Karel Allegaert
- b Intensive Care and Department of Surgery , Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital , Rotterdam , The Netherlands.,c Department of Development and Regeneration , KU Leuven , Leuven , Belgium
| | - Catherijne A J Knibbe
- a Division of Pharmacology, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research , Leiden University , Leiden , The Netherlands.,d Department of Clinical Pharmacy , St. Antonius Hospital , Nieuwegein , The Netherlands
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224
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Montgomery SM, Kusel J. The prevalence of child-specific utilities in NICE appraisals for paediatric indications: rise of the economic orphans? Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2016; 16:347-50. [PMID: 27082293 DOI: 10.1080/14737167.2016.1179116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Children are not mini-adults, and thus require studies to be conducted in the population of interest to inform decisions about their care. The paucity of such studies for clinical efficacy lead them to be termed 'therapeutic orphans'. Following the introduction of the 'fourth hurdle' of reimbursement approval on the basis of cost-utility analysis, utility data is now a key requirement for patients to access treatments in England and many other countries. This special report considers whether a paucity of utility valuation studies in children may have made them 'economic orphans' as well and presents results of a review of NICE appraisals as a window on this problem over time.
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225
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Wadsworth I, Hampson LV, Jaki T. Extrapolation of efficacy and other data to support the development of new medicines for children: A systematic review of methods. Stat Methods Med Res 2016; 27:398-413. [PMID: 26994211 DOI: 10.1177/0962280216631359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE When developing new medicines for children, the potential to extrapolate from adult data to reduce the experimental burden in children is well recognised. However, significant assumptions about the similarity of adults and children are needed for extrapolations to be biologically plausible. We reviewed the literature to identify statistical methods that could be used to optimise extrapolations in paediatric drug development programmes. METHODS Web of Science was used to identify papers proposing methods relevant for using data from a 'source population' to support inferences for a 'target population'. Four key areas of methods development were targeted: paediatric clinical trials, trials extrapolating efficacy across ethnic groups or geographic regions, the use of historical data in contemporary clinical trials and using short-term endpoints to support inferences about long-term outcomes. RESULTS Searches identified 626 papers of which 52 met our inclusion criteria. From these we identified 102 methods comprising 58 Bayesian and 44 frequentist approaches. Most Bayesian methods (n = 54) sought to use existing data in the source population to create an informative prior distribution for a future clinical trial. Of these, 46 allowed the source data to be down-weighted to account for potential differences between populations. Bayesian and frequentist versions of methods were found for assessing whether key parameters of source and target populations are commensurate (n = 34). Fourteen frequentist methods synthesised data from different populations using a joint model or a weighted test statistic. CONCLUSIONS Several methods were identified as potentially applicable to paediatric drug development. Methods which can accommodate a heterogeneous target population and which allow data from a source population to be down-weighted are preferred. Methods assessing the commensurability of parameters may be used to determine whether it is appropriate to pool data across age groups to estimate treatment effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Wadsworth
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Fylde College, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Lisa V Hampson
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Fylde College, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Thomas Jaki
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Fylde College, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
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226
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Joseph PD, Caldwell PHY, Tong A, Hanson CS, Craig JC. Stakeholder Views of Clinical Trials in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review. Pediatrics 2016; 137:e20152800. [PMID: 26812926 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2015-2800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Clinical trials are necessary to improve the health care of children, but only one-quarter are conducted in the low- to middle-income countries (LMICs) in which 98% of the global burden of disease resides. OBJECTIVE To describe stakeholder beliefs and experiences of conducting trials in children in LMICs. DATA SOURCES Electronic databases were searched to August 2014. STUDY SELECTION Qualitative studies of stakeholder perspectives on conducting clinical trials among children in LMICs. DATA EXTRACTION Findingswere analyzed by using thematic synthesis. RESULTS Thirty-nine studies involving 3110 participants (children [n = 290], parents or caregivers [n = 1609], community representatives [n = 621], clinical or research team members [n = 376], regulators [n = 18], or sponsors [n = 15]) across 22 countries were included. Five themes were identified: centrality of community engagement (mobilizing community, representatives' pivotal role, managing expectations, and retaining involvement); cognizance of vulnerability and poverty (therapeutic opportunity and medical mistrust); contending with power differentials (exploitation, stigmatization, and disempowerment); translating research to local context (cultural beliefs, impoverishment constraints, and ethical pluralism); and advocating fair distribution of benefits (health care, sponsor obligation, and collateral community benefits). LIMITATIONS Studies not published in English were excluded. CONCLUSIONS Conducting trials in children in LMICs is complex due to social disadvantage, economic scarcity, idiosyncratic cultural beliefs, and historical disempowerment, all of which contribute to inequity, mistrust, and fears of exploitation. Effective community engagement in recruiting, building research capacities, and designing trials that are pragmatic, ethical, and relevant to the health care needs of children in LMICs may help to improve the equity and health outcomes of this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pathma D Joseph
- Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia; Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, and The Pharmacy Department, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - Patrina H Y Caldwell
- Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia; Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, and
| | - Allison Tong
- Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia; Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; and
| | - Camilla S Hanson
- Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia; Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; and
| | - Jonathan C Craig
- Centre for Kidney Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia; Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; and
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Hamre H, Glockmann A, Schwarz R, Riley D, Baars E, Kiene H, Kienle G. Antibiotikaverbrauch bei Kindern mit akuten Atemwegs- oder Ohrinfekten: eine prospektive Beobachtungsstudie zum Vergleich zwischen anthroposophischer und konventioneller Behandlung in der hausärztlichen Routineversorgung. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.14271/dms-20637-de] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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228
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Ferro A. Paediatric prescribing: why children are not small adults. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2015; 79:351-3. [PMID: 25371355 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.12540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Albert Ferro
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Cardiovascular Division, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, King's College London, London, SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
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229
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Antibiotic Use in Children with Acute Respiratory or Ear Infections: Prospective Observational Comparison of Anthroposophic and Conventional Treatment under Routine Primary Care Conditions. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2014; 2014:243801. [PMID: 25505919 PMCID: PMC4251819 DOI: 10.1155/2014/243801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2014] [Revised: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Children with acute respiratory or ear infections (RTI/OM) are often unnecessarily prescribed antibiotics. Antibiotic resistance is a major public health problem and antibiotic prescription for RTI/OM should be reduced. Anthroposophic treatment of RTI/OM includes anthroposophic medications, nonmedication therapy and if necessary also antibiotics. This secondary analysis from an observational study comprised 529 children <18 years from Europe (AT, DE, NL, and UK) or USA, whose caregivers had chosen to consult physicians offering anthroposophic (A-) or conventional (C-) treatment for RTI/OM. During the 28-day follow-up antibiotics were prescribed to 5.5% of A-patients and 25.6% of C-patients (P < 0.001); unadjusted odds ratio for nonprescription in A- versus C-patients 6.58 (95%-CI 3.45–12.56); after adjustment for demographics and morbidity 6.33 (3.17–12.64). Antibiotic prescription rates in recent observational studies with similar patients in similar settings, ranged from 31.0% to 84.1%. Compared to C-patients, A-patients also had much lower use of analgesics, somewhat quicker symptom resolution, and higher caregiver satisfaction. Adverse drug reactions were infrequent (2.3% in both groups) and not serious. Limitation was that results apply to children of caregivers who consult A-physicians. One cannot infer to what extent antibiotics might be avoided in children who usually receive C-treatment, if they were offered A-treatment.
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