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An analysis of blinding success in a randomised controlled trial of fish oil omega-3 fatty acids
Citation
Liu, J. C. J., Raine, A., Ang, R. P. H., & Fung, D. S. S. (2015). An analysis of blinding success in a randomised controlled trial of fish oil omega-3 fatty acids. Annals Academy of Medicine, 44(3), 85-91.
Abstract
Introduction: Incidental reports collected in clinical trials suggest that amongst participants, omega-3 fatty acids derived from fi sh oil (‘omega-3’) may be difficult to blind. Materials and Methods: We conducted a systematic evaluation of blinding success in a 24-week trial of omega-3 versus an oil-based placebo. Within 1 week of supplement commencement (Week 1), a blinding questionnaire was completed by 131 children enrolled in a trial of omega-3 for the treatment of disruptive behaviour disorders. A version of the questionnaire was also completed by their parents at Week 1, and by the children at the end of supplement administration (Week 24). Results: Participants were unable to differentiate omega-3 from placebo, and accuracy did not improve as a function of: the confidence of guesses, reason for guesses, notice of any change, beliefs about what should change, or time. Child and parent guesses also showed high concordance. Conclusion: Taken together, these data provide strong evidence that the identity of omega-3 can be blinded to participants.
Date Issued
2015
Publisher
Academy of Medicine, Singapore
Journal
Annals of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore