Randomised Controlled Trials in Diabetes Research: A Pathway to Interpreting Published Results

摘要

Although the importance of real-world evidence should not be underestimated, randomised controlled trials (RCTs) remain the gold standard for direct treatment comparisons. Over the last two decades, numerous publications have presented results of RCTs investigating the safety and efficacy of therapies for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, for example long-acting basal insulin analogues [1–14]. RCTs such as these use a robust design and methodology that aims to avoid confounders and determine differences between basal insulins. However, interpreting the results of RCTs and making judgements about the quality of evidence and how results may be applicable to diabetes management can be difficult for healthcare practitioners (HCPs) because of differing trial methodologies, analysis plans, and endpoints.