Adaptive trial design was developed initially for oncology to improve trial efficiency. If optimized for rheumatology, it may improve trial efficiency by reducing sample size and time.
A systematic review assessed design of phase II clinical trials in rheumatoid arthritis.
Fifty-six trials were reviewed. Most trials had 4 groups (1 control and 3 intervention), with an average group size of 34 patients. American College of Rheumatology 20 measured at 16 weeks was the most commonly used primary endpoint.
The next step is to undertake a systematic review of adaptive designs used in early-phase trials in nonrheumatic conditions.