Systematic review of safety in paediatric drug trials published in 2007

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Nor Aripin, Khairun Nain Bin, Choonara, Imti and Sammons, Helen (2012) Systematic review of safety in paediatric drug trials published in 2007. European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 68 (2). pp. 189-194. ISSN 0031-6970

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Abstract

Background: There is now greater involvement of children in drug trials to ensure that paediatric medicines are supported by sound scientific evidence. The safety of the participating children is of paramount importance. Previous research shows that these children can suffer moderate and severe adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in clinical trials, yet very few of the trials designated a data safety monitoring board (DSMB) to oversee the trial.

Methods: Safety data from a systematic review of paediatric drug randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published in 2007 were analysed. All reported adverse events (AEs) were classified and assessed to determine whether an ADR had been experienced. ADRs were then categorised according to severity. Each trial report was examined as to whether an independent DSMB was in place.

Results: Of the 582 paediatric drug RCTs analysed, 210 (36%) reported that a serious AE had occurred, and in 15% mortality was reported. ADRs were detected in more than half of the RCTs (305); 66 (11%) were severe, and 79 (14%) were moderate. Severe ADRs involved a wide range of organ systems and were frequently associated with cytotoxic drugs, antiparasitics, anticonvulsants and psychotropic drugs. Two RCTs reported significantly higher mortality rates in the treatment group. Only 69 (12%) of the RCTs stated there was a DSMB. DSMBs terminated five RCTs and changed the protocol in one.

Conclusions: Children participating in drug RCTs experience a significant amount and a wide range of ADRs. DSMBs are needed to ensure the safety of paediatric participants in clinical drug trials

Item Type: Article
RIS ID: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1007996
Additional Information: The final publication is available at Springer via http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00228-011-1112-6
Keywords: Paediatric clinical trials, Adverse drug reactions, Drug safety, Data safety monitoring boards, Systematic review
Schools/Departments: University of Nottingham, UK > Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > School of Medicine > Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Identification Number: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00228-011-1112-6
Depositing User: Snowden, Ms Diane
Date Deposited: 25 Apr 2014 10:35
Last Modified: 04 May 2020 20:21
URI: https://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/id/eprint/2579

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