Re-Analysis of three network meta-analyses of fluoxetine for depression in children and adolescents: clarifying efficacy and finding a zombie
Richard Lyus, Martin Plöderl and Florian Naudet will present how they discovered that a “zombie trial” can affect network meta-analyses and clinical guidelines on antidepressants for adolescents.
Jueves 26 febrero, 13:30Pasado
Credits: Microsoft Designer
This talk (hosted by University of Cambridge/CPFT Lunchtime Psychiatry Seminars) will explore how a single problematic or “zombie” trial, persisting in the literature despite serious concerns, can meaningfully influence network meta-analyses (NMAs) and, in turn, shape clinical guidelines on antidepressant use in adolescents.
Using a detailed case study, the speakers will demonstrate how the inclusion of such a trial altered comparative efficacy estimates and potentially clinical interpretation. Beyond the specific example, the session will broaden the perspective to examine the wider phenomenon of zombie trials: how they survive, how they propagate through evidence syntheses, and how they can distort decision-making.
The implications are significant, not only for clinical practice, where treatment recommendations may be affected, but also for researchers and methodologists working with NMA methodology across any type of intervention. The session will highlight critical appraisal strategies, and the importance of vigilance in evidence synthesis.
Zombie trials, network meta-analyses i antidepressants
