A Roundup of Reader’s Comments

Keep 'em coming

Alan Richards and docross asked us to list pharmaceuticals, biologics, and devices that could genuinely be worth investing in and benefit society. Real ones, not Zum Zum products. Instead of giving a comprehensive list, here is our strategy. 

First, we look for systemic reviews that show high-quality evidence that makes a difference to patients. For example, we previously wanted to identify medications that affect emergency hospital admissions. To do this, we did an overview of systematic reviews identifying 11 medications supported by sound evidence and backed up by clinical guidelines that could help reduce emergency hospital admission.

Second, to identify promising treatments whose effects are uncertain, we would examine NICE guidance and mine its research recommendations. As NICE develops guidance, it identifies gaps and uncertainties in the evidence base that could benefit from further research.

Third, for many interventions of public health importance currently used in practice, we…