Adaptive designs in clinical drug development - An executive summary of the PhRMA working group

Abstract

A PhRMA Working Group on adaptive clinical trial designs has been formed to investigate and facilitate opportunities for wider acceptance and usage of adaptive designs and related methodologies. A White Paper summarizing the findings of the group is currently in preparation. This article is an Executive Summary of that full White Paper : it summarizes the findings and recommendations of the group. Logistic, operational, procedural, and statistical challenges associated with adaptive designs are addressed. Three particular areas where adaptive designs can likely be utilized beneficially are discussed : dose finding, seamless Phase II/III trial designs, and sample size reestimation.