Articles tagged with Placebos
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A study found that azithromycin improved symptoms and lung function in patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis, but at the cost of increased antibiotic resistance. The treatment also raised gastrointestinal side effects.
A UK survey found that 97% of doctors have prescribed placebo treatments to patients at least once, with impure placebos being used more frequently. Doctors cited treating psychological effects and reassuring patients as reasons for prescribing placebos, while also acknowledging the need for patient trust.
Post-menopausal women who received estrogen-only medication reported significantly lower joint pain frequencies compared to those receiving a placebo. The study found modest but sustained relief from joint pain in these women.
A phase 3 trial found that eritoran did not significantly reduce all-cause 28-day mortality or 1-year mortality in patients with severe sepsis compared to placebo. The study, conducted in 197 intensive care units, showed no significant difference in treatment-emergent adverse events between eritoran and placebo groups.
Researchers have identified promising treatments for three common challenges faced by people with Parkinson's disease: blood pressure problems, the wearing-off effect, and uncontrolled symptoms. The new drugs show promise in reducing dizziness, falls, and improving motor function, offering a brighter future for those affected.
A study published in JAMA found that adding aliskiren to standard therapy did not improve long-term outcomes in patients hospitalized for heart failure with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. The results showed no significant reduction in cardiovascular death or rehospitalization rates at 6 or 12 months after discharge.
A single dose of an investigational anti-inflammatory drug, inclacumab, reduced damage to heart tissue during angioplasty in a study. The drug, which blocks p-selectin, had significant effects on cardiac markers, including troponin I and CK-MB, in patients with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction.
Research presented at the American College of Cardiology's Annual Scientific Session found no significant benefit from high-dose oral vitamins and minerals in reducing recurrent cardiac events. However, combining these supplements with active chelation therapy showed a slight additional benefit.
A 24-week trial found no significant improvement in exercise capacity or clinical status for patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction treated with sildenafil. Renal function worsened and adverse events increased in the sildenafil group, contradicting previous findings on PDE-5 inhibitors.
A phase III trial shows mirabegron reduces incontinence episodes and daily urinations, improving urgency and nocturia in adults with overactive bladder. The study also confirms the drug's balanced efficacy and safety profile, making it a potential alternative for patients with inadequate antimuscarinic therapy.
A study published in JAMA found that corticosteroid injections did not provide significant long-term improvement for patients with 'tennis elbow', and neither option was effective compared to placebo. However, physiotherapy provided some short-term benefits despite no long-term effects.
A Phase 3 clinical trial shows that tofacitinib preserves joint structure in RA patients with moderate to severe disease, reducing progression of joint erosion and narrowing. The medication is effective in treating RA symptoms and reducing the rate of joint damage, providing new evidence for its treatment.
A two-year observational follow-up of the REDUCE trial found that dutasteride treatment was associated with a lower incidence of new prostate cancers. The study, published in The Journal of Urology, showed that men taking dutasteride had fewer prostate cancer diagnoses compared to those receiving a placebo.
A study of 146 patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis found that vitamin D supplementation did not significantly reduce knee pain or cartilage volume loss over a two-year period. The researchers also noted that serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D increased in both the treatment and placebo groups.
A new clinical trial shows that sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) can safely induce desensitization in people with peanut allergy, with significant increases in the amount of peanut powder they can consume. The treatment involves daily doses of liquid containing peanut powder, and was more effective than placebo.
A large European trial confirms that commonly prescribed antibiotics are ineffective for treating acute uncomplicated respiratory infections. Patients given amoxicillin did not recover much quicker or have significantly fewer symptoms, and the treatment appeared to have a limited effect even in older patients.
A study of over 1,200 participants found no significant improvement in cognitive and functional status for those treated with citicoline after traumatic brain injury, contradicting its widespread use as a neuroprotective agent.
Researchers found that about one-quarter of placebo response was explained by personality traits such as resiliency, straightforwardness, altruism or anger/hostility. The study involved nearly 50 healthy volunteers and used brain scans to measure natural painkiller chemicals in the brain.
A 12-week clinical study found that nabilone significantly reduces pain and improves sleep in patients with diabetic neuropathy, with few side effects. The medication, a synthetic cannabinoid, has been used to treat nausea in chemotherapy patients and is now being considered for treating neuropathy pain in diabetics.
A new study has identified a genetic marker for the placebo response in Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) patients, which could influence patient care and clinical trial design. The findings suggest that individuals with a specific genotype have a higher response to placebos when treated by a warm, supportive healthcare provider.
A study by multiple institutions found that roflumilast increased lung function in moderate and severe COPD patients, with significant improvements in FEV1 after 6 months. Roflumilast was compared to placebo, showing consistent increases in lung function across treatment groups.
A study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that VeriStrat can predict response to erlotinib, but does not provide a survival benefit. The test showed a significant difference in median survival between good and poor responders, with good responders experiencing longer survival on erlotinib.
A recent study published in JAMA found that vitamin D supplementation did not significantly reduce the incidence or severity of colds in healthy adults. The researchers studied 322 participants who received either a monthly dose of 100,000 IU of vitamin D3 or a placebo for 18 months.
A new study found no significant association between corticosteroid use and increased bleeding events after tonsillectomy. The research suggests that the commonly used corticosteroid dexamethasone does not significantly increase the risk of serious bleeding in children undergoing the procedure.
A recent study published in JAMA found that administering dexamethasone to children before tonsillectomy did not significantly increase post-operative bleeding. The researchers tested the hypothesis that dexamethasone would result in a 5% higher rate of bleeding events compared to placebo, but the results showed no significant difference.
A study by the American Heart Association found that drinking low-calorie cranberry juice for eight weeks significantly lowered blood pressure in healthy adults, from an average of 121/73 mmHg to 118/70 mmHg. The antioxidants in cranberry juice are believed to be responsible for this effect.
Researchers found thalidomide significantly reduced the cough and improved quality of life for patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The constant cough caused by IPF can have wide-ranging effects on patients' lives, affecting daily activities and social gatherings.
Researchers identified a novel mechanism that explains the power of placebos and nocebos, demonstrating the unconscious mind plays a key role in pain experiences. Studies showed that patients can show clinical improvement even when receiving treatments devoid of active ingredients or known therapeutic efficacy.
A multicenter trial found that antibiotic treatment with amoxicillin/clavulanate significantly improved clinical cure rates and prolonged the median time to next exacerbation in patients with mild-to-moderate COPD. Patients with elevated capillary C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were more likely to be cured without antibiotics.
Vitamin D supplements did not improve cholesterol levels, according to a new study conducted at The Rockefeller University Hospital. Researchers found that correcting vitamin D deficiencies with high doses of oral vitamin D supplements had no effect on cholesterol levels in the short term.
A study published in The Lancet found that mepolizumab significantly reduced severe asthma exacerbations, emergency room visits, and hospitalizations. The treatment also showed promise in reducing the need for oral corticosteroids, a common trigger for these flare-ups.
A phase 2 trial shows vandetanib significantly improves progression-free survival and disease control rate for patients with advanced differentiated thyroid cancer, particularly those with papillary thyroid cancer. However, increased toxicities were observed.
A clinical trial found that iron supplementation reduced fatigue by almost 50% in nonanemic women with low ferritin levels. The study, involving 198 menstruating women, also showed positive effects on hemoglobin and blood levels after six weeks of treatment.
Research highlights the need for better representation of placebo effects in clinical trial participant information leaflets. The study found that placebos were often described negatively and ignored potential benefits.
A new study finds that an experimental weight-loss drug, phentermine/topiramate, significantly aids overweight patients with type 2 diabetes in shedding pounds. Patients who took the medication combined with diet and exercise modifications were more likely to lose moderate amounts of weight than those on a placebo.
A new systematic review found no benefit from omega-3 supplements on cognitive health in older adults, but suggests longer-term effects are worth investigating. The researchers recommend eating fish as part of a healthy diet to support brain health.
Researchers found that individuals taking statin cholesterol-lowering drugs are more likely to experience decreased energy and fatigue upon exertion. The study, which included over 1,000 adults, suggests that these side effects should be taken into account when prescribing statins.
Baricitinib demonstrates dose-dependent efficacy in active rheumatoid arthritis, with 76% of patients achieving ACR20 response compared to 41% on placebo. Patients also showed significant improvements in disease activity and functional outcomes.
Patients with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA) treated with Ustekinumab 90mg achieved a 24.9% improvement in ACR50, compared to 8.7% in the placebo group. The study also showed significant improvements in DAS28-CRP responses and clinical meaningful changes in HAQ-DI.
A Phase III study found that certolizumab pegol significantly improved symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, with increased responses at both the ACR20 and PASI 75 benchmarks. The treatment also showed similar safety profiles to those observed in rheumatoid arthritis.
A recent article in the Hastings Center Report raises questions about the AMA's policy on prescribing placebos, arguing that it may not be the best way to protect or benefit patients. The article suggests that some bioethicists argue that an undisclosed placebo is sometimes the best available treatment for certain patients.
A new study published in The Lancet found that intravenous magnesium sulphate does not reduce poor outcomes after haemorrhagic stroke. No difference was observed between patients receiving magnesium and those receiving placebo.
A randomized controlled trial found that azithromycin improved lung function in patients with BOS following lung transplantation. The study showed a significant improvement in FEV1 measurements, with a mean gain of 37ml in the Azithromycin group and a mean fall of 181ml in the placebo group.
A new study has found that vitamin C supplementation in pregnant women who are unable to quit smoking significantly improves pulmonary function in their newborns. Daily use of vitamin C (500 mg/day) improved peak tidal expiratory flow and respiratory compliance, returning them nearly to the levels seen in non-smokers.
Seven late-breaking clinical trials presented at ATS 2012 examined treatments for ventilator-associated pneumonia, cardiac surgery associated kidney injury, septic shock, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, smoking cessation, malignant pleural effusion, and non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis. Results showed that shorter courses of doripenem...
A study found that children with mild persistent asthma benefit from ICS treatment, but some groups benefit more than others. Younger children, non-Hispanic kids, those with eczema and high IgE levels experience greater benefits from ICS treatment.
A randomized trial of 829 patients with Bell palsy found that prednisolone treatment significantly reduced mild and moderate sequelae at 12 months. The study also showed that valacyclovir alone did not affect the severity of sequelae, while the combination of prednisolone plus valacyclovir did not offer additional benefits.
Early treatment with interferon beta-1a significantly reduced the likelihood of progression to clinically definite multiple sclerosis (MS) in a three-year clinical trial. Those who received the drug soon after their first signs of possible MS were less likely to be diagnosed with MS than those who switched from placebo.
A study found that intravenous glucose-insulin-potassium (GIK) solution did not reduce the rate of progression to heart attack or improve 30-day survival in patients with chest pain. The treatment was associated with a lower risk of cardiac arrest or in-hospital death.
A new study by UCLA researchers found that the brain responds differently to antidepressant medication based on prior treatment history. Subjects who had never taken an antidepressant showed large increases in prefrontal brain activity during placebo treatment, while those with prior experience exhibited slight decreases in activity.
A new NIH study finds that programs to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes in high-risk adults can improve quality of life, reduce healthcare costs, and result in significant savings over time. Lifestyle interventions and metformin treatment were found to be cost-effective options for preventing type 2 diabetes.
A 12-week treatment of a fermented soy germ-based nutritional supplement containing S-equol significantly lowered hemoglobin A1c, LDL cholesterol and improved vascular stiffness in overweight Japanese men and women. The study found favorable effects on metabolic syndrome risk factors, particularly in non-S-equol producing individuals.
A scale measuring harm risk from invasive research placebos was successfully tested by 43 independent clinicians. Agreement varied among assessors, with those in academic posts showing higher scores.
A new study published in The Lancet found that misoprostol substantially reduces serious complications in early termination of pregnancy. Women given misoprostol were nearly a third less likely to experience one complication or more compared to those receiving placebo.
The study found that the conversion of testosterone to DHT is not necessary for its effects on muscle mass, strength, and other body functions. The findings suggest that 5α-reductase inhibitors may be safe for men with normal or high testosterone levels, but measurement of testosterone levels may be useful to identify those less likely...
A phase III clinical trial shows that ruxolitinib relieves severe symptoms and extends survival in patients with myelofibrosis. The drug also shrinks swollen spleens, a hallmark of the disease, and improves quality of life for many patients.
TAK-875, a novel oral medication, enhances insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, improving blood sugar control and lowering the risk of hypoglycemia. The study showed significant reductions in HbA1c levels across all TAK-875 doses, with higher efficacy rates compared to glimepiride.
According to investigators at Washington University School of Medicine, antibiotics do not reduce symptoms in sinus infection patients, with most people getting better on their own. The study suggests treating symptoms and watchful waiting may be more effective than antibiotic treatment.
Patients with chronic kidney disease did not show significant improvement on measures of cardiac structure, function, or left ventricular mass after receiving vitamin D compound paricalcitol for up to 48 weeks. However, the study found fewer hospitalizations for cardiovascular events in the treatment group compared to placebo.
A new study found that when combining a placebo with a distracting memory task, participants experienced increased pain reduction without cognitive interference. This challenges the theory that the placebo effect relies on high-level cognitive functions like working memory and attention.