If the interim results are published (usually in sequential trials) where results reveal that one drug is better than another, will such results have an influence on both the investigators and participants of the study while further continuing the study.?
Since you used the word 'publication' it means you are feeling the peer pressure. Many researchers go through this at one time or the other. However, think bout the greater goal of the whole RCT.
Interim results are primarily for monitoring the progress of the RCT and it should be done by a person other than the involved team. This minimizes the chance of Pygmalion effect.
I agree with the answers given by our peers. Very good answers indeed. As to your question "...results have an influence on both the investigators and participants...". Unless there was evidence that one drug is so much superior than the other that it justifies stopping the trial (has happened in real life), investigators shouldnt have done any nterim analysis except for monitoring the progress. It seem researchers felt pressured to do more than 'monitor the progress'. This is a dangerous situation, and not good for science.
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