Randomized Controlled Trial
RCTDefinition
A clinical study design where participants are randomly assigned to either the treatment group or a control group (placebo or standard treatment). Randomization minimizes selection bias and is considered the gold standard for establishing drug efficacy and safety.
Example
The landmark SPRINT trial was an RCT that showed intensive blood pressure control (targeting <120 mmHg) reduced cardiovascular events by 25%.
Related Terms
Mentioned in Guides
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Clinical Trials: Phases I Through IVA comprehensive guide to the four phases of clinical trials — what questions each phase answers, how participants are protected, …
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The Placebo Effect in Drug TestingThe placebo effect is one of the most fascinating phenomena in medicine — and one of the most important factors …