Table 1 Classification of the conclusions according to results reported by authors
Classification | Definition |
|---|---|
Unclear | Direction of results differed within reviews due to conflicting results or limitations of individual studies. |
No effect | The conclusions provided evidence of no difference between intervention and comparator. |
Probably harmful | The conclusions did not claim for firm harmful effect despite the reported negative treatment effect. |
Harmful | The conclusions were reported as clearly indicative of a harmful effect. |
Probably beneficial | The conclusions did not claim for firm benefits despite the reported positive treatment effect. |
Beneficial | The conclusions reported a clear beneficial effect without major concerns regarding the supporting evidence. |