Validity of composite end points in clinical trials -- Montori et al. 330 (7491): 594 -- BMJ

Validity of composite end points in clinical trials -- Montori et al. 330 (7491): 594 -- BMJ:
"The widespread use of composite end points reflects their elegant simplicity as a solution to the problem of declining event rates. Unfortunately, use of composite end points makes the interpretation of the results of randomised trials for clinical decision making challenging. Investigators and their sponsors may claim treatment effects over a broad range of outcomes, whereas the effect may in fact be limited to one component. Occasionally, composite end points prove useful and informative for clinical decision making. Often, they do not. These users' guides will help clinicians differentiate between these situations. "