Combined Single Subject Trials

Randomized controlled single subject trials are designed as multiple crossovers between the treatments to be compared. Results from such independent trials may be combined and integrated for the purpose of extending the conclusions beyond the single subject. Unlike the conventional crossover group trial, the primary goal of the combined single subject study is not to demonstrate an overall clinical benefit of a drug, but to indicate the features typical for drug responders. The external validity of combined single subject trials depends on the same prerequisites as are employed in group trials: strict entry criteria, uniform treatment procedures, consensus targets for outcome measures, and acceptable statistical tests. In clinical research the main role of combined single subject trials should be to elucidate new insight and generate hypotheses that could optimize the design of subsequent group trials.