- #1
Dadface
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I am assuming that volunteers who take part in drug trial testing are aware of the fact that they may be given placebos.Is it likely that this awareness may make the placebo effect less efficacious? 
The Placebo Effect: Is Awareness Impacting Efficacy?
- Thread starter Dadface
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In summary, the use of placebos in drug trial testing may decrease the placebo effect, making it easier to distinguish the difference between the placebo and treatment arms of the trial. However, this effect would be equal in both populations and would not affect the overall inference. Additionally, due to ethical considerations, placebos are typically not used for the control group and new drugs are compared against existing treatments rather than nothing.
- #2
JonMoulton
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In a clinical trial, a decrease in the placebo effect would be an advantage for the advocates of the treatment. If you are the group conducting the trial, you want to see the clearest difference possible between the placebo and the treatment. The placebo effect refers to the tendency of people receiving a placebo to report amelioration of symptoms. This makes it more difficult to distinguish the difference between the placebo arm of the trial and the treatment arm of the trial.
If awareness of the possibility that a patient is receiving a placebo decreases the placebo effect, it will be easier to tell whether the drug is working or not when comparing data from the two trial arms.
If awareness of the possibility that a patient is receiving a placebo decreases the placebo effect, it will be easier to tell whether the drug is working or not when comparing data from the two trial arms.
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- #3
Cincinnatus
- 389
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Dadface said:I am assuming that volunteers who take part in drug trial testing are aware of the fact that they may be given placebos.Is it likely that this awareness may make the placebo effect less efficacious?
Interesting, but this effect would be equal in both populations (placebo and drug). So it would not affect any inference you would draw.
- #4
Moonbear
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
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Indeed, if the placebo effect were reduced, that would be a benefit in testing a novel drug since it too would have a reduced chance of getting a response due to placebo effect only.
In answer to the implied question, yes, if placebos are used, patients in the trial will be informed that this is a possibility. Although, unless something being tested is a novel drug for a condition that was previously untreatable, due to ethical considerations, usually placebos are not used for the control group. Instead, new drugs are usually compared against the existing treatments, and need to perform better than those rather than just better than nothing.
In answer to the implied question, yes, if placebos are used, patients in the trial will be informed that this is a possibility. Although, unless something being tested is a novel drug for a condition that was previously untreatable, due to ethical considerations, usually placebos are not used for the control group. Instead, new drugs are usually compared against the existing treatments, and need to perform better than those rather than just better than nothing.
- #5
Dadface
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Interesting stuff.Thank you everyone for your answers.1. What is the placebo effect?
The placebo effect is a phenomenon where a patient experiences a positive response to a treatment or intervention, despite receiving a placebo or inactive substance. This response is attributed to the patient's belief in the effectiveness of the treatment.
2. How does awareness impact the placebo effect?
Awareness can impact the placebo effect in several ways. It can increase the likelihood of experiencing a placebo effect, as patients who are aware of the placebo may have higher expectations and beliefs in its effectiveness. However, it can also decrease the placebo effect, as patients who are aware of the placebo may be less likely to believe in its effectiveness and therefore experience a weaker response.
3. Is the placebo effect real or just a psychological response?
The placebo effect is a real phenomenon that has been observed in numerous studies and clinical trials. While it is partly attributed to psychological factors, there is also evidence to suggest that physiological mechanisms, such as the release of endorphins, play a role in the placebo effect.
4. Can the placebo effect be used as a treatment?
While the placebo effect can be a powerful tool in research and clinical trials, it is not a recommended treatment on its own. The placebo effect is not a specific treatment for a particular condition and should not replace evidence-based treatments. However, it can be used in conjunction with other treatments to enhance their effects.
5. Are there any ethical concerns surrounding the use of the placebo effect?
There are ethical concerns regarding the use of the placebo effect, particularly when patients are not fully informed about receiving a placebo. Informed consent is essential in any medical treatment, and patients should be made aware if they are receiving a placebo. However, in some cases, the use of a placebo may be necessary for research purposes, and strict guidelines must be followed to ensure the safety and well-being of patients.
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