Do we need placebos to evaluate new drugs in children with schizophrenia?
BACKGROUND
Ethical issues are raised when placebos are used in human experimentation. This ethical concern is accentuated when research is contemplated among special sub-groups such as children, especially if they suffer from schizophrenia.


OBJECTIVE
To review critically current ethical and scientific issues regarding the use of placebos in children with schizophrenia.


METHODS
Manual review of literature and agency policies on pertinent issues and presentation of thoughtful original ideas as to the ethical use of placebos in children.


RESULTS
There is compelling scientific and ethical justification underscoring the need and appropriateness of placebo-controlled studies in the treatment of childhood schizophrenia.


CONCLUSIONS
The authors believe that children will gain access to new medications and receive safe and optimal drug therapy through well-conducted research that employs placebo controls.
Armenteros
Jorge L
JL
University of Miami School of Medicine, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry (D29), P.O. Box 016960, Miami, FL 33101, USA.
Mikhail
Ashraf G
AG
D002648:Child; D018849:Controlled Clinical Trials as Topic / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D004341:Drug Evaluation / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D018579:Patient Selection; D010919:Placebos / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000188:drug therapy*
D010919:Placebos