During the last decade a number of meta-analytic studies have been published and they triggered a debate on the true clinical usefulness of antidepressants. The current article comments on problems within the randomized controlled trials design, the study samples, the psychometric scales, the methods of meta-analysis, the interpretation of the results, and the reporting of conflicts of interest. Although the meta-analyses published so far agree that medication works in severe depression, they question its efficacy in mild cases. However, several methodological issues should be clarified before conclusions are definite. Different methods give different results and similar results seem to entertain a variety of interpretations. In the future it is important to address all of these problems, and to improve methodology on the basis of clinically informed choices. Otherwise, meta-analysis risks alienation from clinical reality and thus risks becoming the 21(st) century psychoanalysis.

Download full-text PDF

Source
http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0269881113504014DOI Listing

Publication Analysis

Top Keywords

burning issues
4
issues meta-analysis
4
meta-analysis pharmaceutical
4
pharmaceutical trials
4
trials depression
4
depression decade
4
decade number
4
number meta-analytic
4
meta-analytic studies
4
studies published
4

Similar Publications

Background: Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is widely used in dermatological aesthetics for treating acne and other skin conditions. However, its potential adverse reactions remain a concern.

Aims: This study aimed to investigate the application of BPO in dermatological aesthetics, analyze its associated adverse reactions, and provide insights into patient safety.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Purpose: Waste mismanagement is a growing concern in developing countries where unsustainable practices such as open dumping and open burning are rampant. This study examined the risk perceptions of the residents living in proximity to the Brahmapuram dump yard, situated in Ernakulam district of Kerala State, India- A site marked by persistent local protests, public outrage, and legal disputes arising from issues related to waste mismanagement. The study focused on the geospatial and sociodemographic factors that might influence these perceptions.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

The use of virtual reality (VR) in medicine is rapidly expanding, particularly in areas like pain management, surgical training, and mental health therapy. This study examines the implementation and effects of the Cold River VR application, a fully immersive tool designed to help manage pain and anxiety during dressing changes for burn trauma patients in a Czech hospital. The Cold River application immerses patients in a peaceful, interactive virtual environment, utilizing eye-tracking technology to engage them without the need for physical controllers, which could interfere with wound care.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

The effectiveness of tumescent anesthesia in managing pain for enzymatic debridement of burns. A case-control study.

Burns

December 2024

Burn & Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery,Azienda Ospedaliera Cannizzaro, Via Messina 829, Catania, Italy.

Introduction: Burn injuries are a global health challenge, causing significant pain, tissue damage and complex wound management issues. Traditional treatments like surgical debridement, while effective, pose challenges such as blood loss, grafting requirements, and prolonged hospital stays. Enzymatic debridement, such as the Nexobrid procedure, effectively removes necrotic tissue but can be painful for patients.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review of the literature to determine the overall efficacy of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in managing burning mouth syndrome (BMS). A literature search was conducted through PubMed, Scopus, Web of Sciences, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from their inception up to 28 March 2023. The search terms were defined by combining (Mesh Terms OR Key Words) from "Burning mouth syndrome" AND (Mesh Terms OR Key Words) from "Laser therapy".

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Want AI Summaries of new PubMed Abstracts delivered to your In-box?

Enter search terms and have AI summaries delivered each week - change queries or unsubscribe any time!