title: How double blind is double blind? And does it matter?
abstract: In an apparently double blind crossover study, two experienced measurement technicians were able to identify many of the treatment periods. They most often correctly identified aspirin, a drug with prominent effects and side effects. It is argued that in many circumstances it is better to use a blind observer who is not concerned with the giving of treatment or the collection of side effects.
mesh_terms: D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000188:drug therapy; D001241:Aspirin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004341:Drug Evaluation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D010919:Placebos; D012107:Research Design
chemical_list: D010919:Placebos; D001241:Aspirin