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Placebo: misunderstandings and prejudices
Matthias Breidert1, Karl Hofbauer
1Medizinische Klinik I, Kliniken im Naturpark Altmühltal, Klinik Kösching Krankenhausstr. 19 85092 Kösching, Germany.
Deutsches Arzteblatt International
|December 19, 2009
Summary
Placebo effects are driven by subconscious conditioned reflexes and conscious patient expectations, not just the doctor
Area of Science:
- Medical Sciences
- Psychology
Background:
- The role and effects of placebos are frequently misunderstood.
- Distinguishing placebo effects from the effects of physician administration is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review current data on placebos.
- To provide a clear explanation of placebo effects and their limitations.
Main Methods:
- Selective literature review.
Main Results:
- Modern imaging reveals objective correlates of placebo effects.
- Placebo administration involves subconscious conditioned reflexes and conscious patient expectations.
- Physician personality and treatment setting also influence placebo effects.
Conclusions:
- Understanding placebo mechanisms can enhance therapeutic outcomes.
- Physicians should consciously leverage placebo effects when prescribing active medications.
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