Two research teams are both experimenting with new treatments for a medical condition. In one study, the condition involved currently has no treatment; in the other, there is an accepted treatment, to which the researchers seek alternative and/or improved options. Both studies are comparing an experimental treatment to a placebo. Ethically, what is the most likely opinion?

A) Both studies are unethical because patient welfare is not the first priority.
B) The study wherein an accepted standard of care exists may be unethical.
C) The study wherein no treatment exists for the condition is less ethical.
D) Both studies are ethical because testing new treatments is necessary.

Question

​Two research teams are both experimenting with new treatments for a medical condition. In one study, the condition involved currently has no treatment; in the other, there is an accepted treatment, to which the researchers seek alternative and/or improved options. Both studies are comparing an experimental treatment to a placebo. Ethically, what is the most likely opinion?A)  ​Both studies are unethical because patient welfare is not the first priority.B)  ​The study wherein an accepted standard of care exists may be unethical.C)  ​The study wherein no treatment exists for the condition is less ethical.D)  ​Both studies are ethical because testing new treatments is necessary.

patarasri inkhao · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : B, Explanation :  The study where an accepted standard of care exists may be considered unethical if a placebo is used instead of the standard treatment, as this could deprive participants of effective therapy. In contrast, using a placebo in a condition with no current treatment does not withhold established therapies.

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