Sample Size Estimation for a Non-inferiority Pain Management Trial

Measuring pain and pain relief are the primary concerns in pain management. Sample size estimation in pain management with non-inferiority (NI) study design and assessment of specific-NI margin endpoints may be challenging as pain and its improvement are measured and reported on different endpoints.

Multiple endpoints were reported frequently to measure pain and pain improvement. The sum of pain intensity difference (SPID[0-t]) at a specific time is the recommended endpoint for the measurement of pain by the United States Food and Drug Administration. Statistical information on SPID and other endpoints reported in multiple works in the literature (preferably from placebo-controlled trials) was collected and compared to identify a suitable NI margin. A difference of 20% was considered the default NI margin for evaluation, and the sample size was calculated for each endpoint.

The sample size based on the FDA-recommended primary endpoint SPID was found to be larger. This may be a concern for overall clinical operation and the availability of patients for recruitment in time. The sample size obtained for the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) endpoint was feasible and justifiable from an operational and clinical standpoint.

Evaluation and assessment of multiple endpoints before designing an NI study enable rapid decision-making on endpoint selection and increase operational efficiency.