Practical guide to sample size calculations: superiority trials

Pharm Stat. 2016 Jan-Feb;15(1):75-9. doi: 10.1002/pst.1718. Epub 2015 Nov 20.

Abstract

A sample size justification is a vital part of any investigation. However, estimating the number of participants required to give meaningful results is not always straightforward. A number of components are required to facilitate a suitable sample size calculation. In this paper, the steps for conducting sample size calculations for superiority trials are summarised. Practical advice and examples are provided illustrating how to carry out the calculations by hand and using the app SampSize.

Keywords: clinical trials; power; sample size; superiority.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Trials as Topic / methods
  • Clinical Trials as Topic / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Research Design / statistics & numerical data*
  • Sample Size*