August 30, 2023

Critically Evaluating Industry-Sponsored Clinical Trials

When reviewing clinical research, we should carefully examine the methodology and potential biases, especially in industry-funded studies. A new editorial highlights concerns about a drug-maker-backed trial on a medication for diabetes. Despite claims of cardiovascular benefits, the analysis failed to correct for HbA1c. Selective reporting and marketing contractor involvement also raise red flags. While sponsorship doesn’t negate findings, it warrants added scrutiny. As consumers and professionals, we must interpret research cautiously and transparently, considering limitations that could skew results.

Citation: Heston TF, Olson AH, Randall NR. Canagliflozin lowers blood sugar, but does it also lower cardiovascular risk? Maybe not. Ann Transl Med. 2017;5(23):473. https://doi.org/10.21037/atm.2017.09.28