Adaptive Allocation Theory in Clinical Trials

Abstract

Various adaptive randomization procedures (adaptive designs) have been proposed to clinical trials. This paper discusses several broad families of procedures, such as the play-the-winner rule and Markov chain model, randomized play-the-winner rule and urn models, drop-the-loser rule, doubly biased coin adaptive design. Asymptotic theories are presented with several pivotal proofs. The effect of delayed responses, the power and variability comparison of these designs are also discussed.