) In a recently published article authors reported on their research examining the effectiveness of compound C-4277, an anti-viral agent. This agent was tested to determine its impact on rhinoviruses, which are the leading cause of common colds. The article states that 1,800 subjects with colds were treated with vitamin C and C-4277. Within 5 days, 95% of the subjects reported no cold symptoms. The authors conclude that these results demonstrate the effectiveness of the medication. Does it demonstrate effectiveness? Why or why not ? (list and explain at least 3 reasons for your answer)

Question

) In a recently published article authors reported on their research examining the effectiveness of compound C-4277, an anti-viral agent. This agent was tested to determine its impact on rhinoviruses, which are the leading cause of common colds. The article states that 1,800 subjects with colds were treated with vitamin C and C-4277. Within 5 days, 95% of the subjects reported no cold symptoms. The authors conclude that these results demonstrate the effectiveness of the medication. Does it demonstrate effectiveness? Why or why not ? (list and explain at least 3 reasons for your answer)

Answer 1

To determine whether the research demonstrates the effectiveness of compound C-4277, we need to analyze the data and consider several factors. Below are three reasons that explain why the results may or may not indicate the effectiveness of the medication:

1. Lack of control group: One reason why the research may not demonstrate the effectiveness of compound C-4277 is the absence of a control group in the study design. A control group is a group of subjects who do not receive the medication being tested, allowing researchers to compare the outcomes between the treatment group and the control group. Without a control group, we have no basis for comparison to determine if the observed improvements can be attributed solely to the medication or if other factors, such as natural recovery or the use of vitamin C, contributed to the results.

2. Limited sample size: Another reason to question the effectiveness of compound C-4277 is the relatively small sample size of 1,800 subjects. While this may seem like a significant number of participants, it may not be enough to draw statistically significant conclusions about the medication's effectiveness. To establish strong evidence, larger sample sizes are often necessary, as they reduce the likelihood of random effects skewing the results. Without a larger sample size, the findings may be less reliable and not representative of the overall population.

3. Absence of placebo group: The research mentions that 1,800 subjects were treated with both vitamin C and C-4277, but it does not mention the presence of a placebo group. A placebo group receives an inert substance or a sham treatment, allowing researchers to isolate and account for placebo effects. Placebo effects can influence participants' perception of improvement and account for any reported symptom reduction, even in the absence of an active treatment. Without a placebo group, we cannot determine the true contribution of the medication versus placebo effects on symptom improvement.

Considering these reasons, the research findings indicating that 95% of the subjects reported no cold symptoms within five days after taking vitamin C and compound C-4277 may not conclusively demonstrate the effectiveness of the medication. The lack of a control group, limited sample size, and absence of placebo group reduce the strength and reliability of the evidence. To establish the medication's effectiveness more persuasively, future studies incorporating these important elements would be necessary.