Question

Pfizer Canada Inc. is a pharmaceutical company that makes azithromycin, an antibiotic in a cherry-flavored suspension used to treat bacterial infections in children. To compare the taste of their product with three competing medications, Pfizer tested 50 healthy children and 20 healthy adults. Among other taste-testing measures, they recorded the number of tasters who rated each of the four antibiotic suspensions as the best tasting. \({ }^{13}\) Is there a difference in the perception of the best taste between adults and children? If so, what is the nature of the difference, and why is it of practical importance to the pharmaceutical company? $$ \begin{array}{lcccc} \hline &&{\text { Flavor of Antibiotic }} \\ \hline & \text { Banana } & \text { Cherry* } & \text { Wild Fruit } & \text { Strawberry-Banana } \\ \hline \text { Children } & 14 & 20 & 7 & 9 \\ \text { Adults } & 4 & 14 & 0 & 2 \\ \hline \end{array} $$*Azithromycin produced by Pfizer Canada Inc.

Short answer

If so, what is the nature of this difference and its importance for the pharmaceutical company? Answer: Yes, there is a significant difference in the taste perception of Cherry antibiotic suspension between adults and children. Adults prefer Cherry flavor much more (0.70) than children (0.40). This difference is important for the pharmaceutical company, as it can help them adjust their marketing strategy and product line to better cater to both adults and children, considering their different flavor preferences.

Step-by-step solution

Observe the given data

Start by carefully observing the given data in the table of antibiotic suspensions: $$ \begin{array}{lcccc} \hline &&{\text { Flavor of Antibiotic }} \\\ \hline & \text { Banana } & \text { Cherry* } & \text { Wild Fruit } & \text { Strawberry-Banana } \\\ \hline \text { Children } & 14 & 20 & 7 & 9 \\\ \text { Adults } & 4 & 14 & 0 & 2 \\\ \hline \end{array} $$ Cherry is the flavor produced by Pfizer Canada Inc. It is essential to analyze the preference of each group for each flavor, focusing on the Cherry flavor.

Calculate the proportions

Calculate the proportion of each group that prefers each flavor. Divide the number of preferences per flavor by the total number of people in each group: - Children - Banana: \(\frac{14}{50} = 0.28\) - Cherry*: \(\frac{20}{50} = 0.40\) - Wild Fruit: \(\frac{7}{50} = 0.14\) - Strawberry-Banana: \(\frac{9}{50} = 0.18\) - Adults - Banana: \(\frac{4}{20} = 0.20\) - Cherry*: \(\frac{14}{20} = 0.70\) - Wild Fruit: \(\frac{0}{20} = 0.00\) - Strawberry-Banana: \(\frac{2}{20} = 0.10\)

Compare the preferences

Compare the proportions for each flavor between adults and children: - Cherry*: The proportion of adults who prefer Cherry is 0.70, and the proportion of children who prefer Cherry is 0.40. There is a significant difference in preference, suggesting a different perception between adults and children.

Analyze the practical importance

It is important for Pfizer Canada Inc. to recognize the difference in taste perception between adults and children, as this can affect how well the drug is received by both groups. By acknowledging these preferences, Pfizer Canada Inc. may consider modifying their product to make it even more appealing to the targeted group or creating additional flavors to cater to different preferences. In conclusion, there is a significant difference in the taste perception between adults and children for the Cherry azithromycin antibiotic suspension. Adults find this flavor more appealing, whereas children prefer alternative flavors in addition to Cherry. This information can be used by Pfizer Canada Inc. to adjust their marketing strategy and product line to better cater to both adults and children.

Key concepts

Statistical Analysis

Statistical analysis is a crucial tool in understanding and interpreting data to make informed decisions. In the context of the Pfizer Canada Inc. study, statistical methods help to reveal preferences for antibiotic flavors among different age groups. By observing the given data—number of children and adults who rate each antibiotic flavor as best tasting—and calculating proportions, the study visually organizes these preferences.

However, to gauge whether the preferences are by chance or display a significant pattern, further statistical tests like the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test could be utilized. These tests can compare observed proportions to expected ones under the assumption of no specific preference, thereby determining if the observed differences are statistically significant.

Using statistical analysis, Pfizer can comprehend not only the most popular flavors but also ascertain the consistency and reliability of these preferences across the different demographic groups. The results guide Pfizer in tailoring their products according to consumer taste which could lead to improved acceptance and compliance in medication usage among their target populations.

Proportion Calculation

Proportion calculation is a fundamental concept in analyzing and comparing data sets. The proportion represents a part or share of the whole and is often expressed as a fraction or percentage. In the exercise, proportions are calculated by dividing the number of individuals who prefer a certain antibiotic flavor by the total number of individuals who have expressed a preference.

For example, the proportion of children preferring the Cherry flavor is calculated by dividing the number of children who chose Cherry (20) by the total number of children (50), resulting in a proportion of 0.40. Similarly, the proportion of adults preferring Cherry is found by dividing the number preferring Cherry (14) by the total number of adults (20), resulting in a higher proportion of 0.70.

Understanding the Significance

Understanding these proportions is vital because it helps Pfizer to determine which flavors are more likely to be accepted by a particular age group. It is important to note not just the absolute numbers, but the proportions, as they give a clearer picture relative to the population size. Proportion differences highlight preferences that can significantly influence the market strategy for the product.

Comparative Study

A comparative study is a methodological approach used to compare different groups, scenarios, or cases to understand relationships and differences. In the case of the Pfizer Canada Inc. study, the comparative approach is used to examine differences in taste preference between two distinct populations—children and adults.

This type of study can offer valuable insights into how different demographic segments perceive a product, which in this scenario, is flavored antibiotic suspensions. The comparison of proportions, as calculated previously, is one aspect of such a study.

Implications for Product Development

By comparing preferences across these populations, Pfizer can identify flavors that are universally appealing or those that should be targeted toward a specific demographic. A comparative study not only assesses current market standing but also can inspire development of new flavors or products to satisfy unmet needs or preferences. For Pfizer, understanding these differences is not just academic—it can drive strategic decisions in product formulation, marketing, and ultimately, sales.