Re-watch our popular webinar where we examine some of the most common and practical challenges you will experience while calculating sample size for your study. These challenges are split into two categories: 1. Overcoming Sample Size Calculation Challenges (Survival Analysis Example) & 2. Overcoming Study Design Challenges (Vaccine Efficacy Example).

Bayesian methods are becoming more common in clinical trials. Previously, a lack of computing in sample size software hindered the use of these methods, but improvements in the area have led to more widespread use. To examine what’s new and different about Bayesian sample size determination, we first need to consider what’s done in a traditional setting.

The pharmaceutical industry is increasingly turning to Bayesian methods in an attempt to improve efficiency and enhance decision making. Assurance (Bayesian Power) is becoming a key feature of these Bayesian methods. This is not to replace traditional power but to complement it.

A key drawback of the traditional 3+3 design in dose escalation is its slow processing of data to reach the target dose. In contrast, the Continual Reassessment Method designs produce an expedited convergence to the target dose or the doses near target.

Statisticians are familiar with the long standing debate regarding Frequentists Vs Bayesian methodologies and the benefits (or negatives) that each present to a particular situation. However, we are now experiencing a rise in traditional frequentists using Bayesian statistics. What are the reasons behind this? While complex, we can identify two high level points.

Following on from our previous blog post, The Most Popular Clinical Trial Drugs of 2016, we thought it would be a good idea to take a closer look at the Top 10 Corporate Clinical Trial Sponsors of 2016.

In this post, we explore these Top 10 companies, looking at their developmental histories as well as the drugs they have developed and the number of subjects required for their 2016 registered trials.

In part 3/3 of this mini series, Head of Statistics at Statsols - Ronan Fitzpatrick - examines key trends in sample size determination which are being felt in trial design.

In part 2/3 of this mini series, Head of Statistics at Statsols - Ronan Fitzpatrick - examines key trends in sample size determination which are being felt in trial design.