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 randomized trial with over 600 patients found that high-dose prescription omega-3 did not reduce the recurrence of atrial fibrillation. The treatment had no significant impact on the rate of symptomatic AF or flutter events in either group, suggesting that previous findings may be due to small sample sizes.
A new study shows that bihemispheric transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) coupled with physical and occupational therapy significantly improves motor function in stroke patients. The therapy rebalances brain activity on both sides of the brain, enhancing recovery.
A randomized controlled trial of DHA supplementation in individuals with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease found no beneficial effect on cognitive and functional decline. The study included 402 participants who received either DHA or a placebo for 18 months. No significant difference was observed in the rate of brain atrophy, ADAS-c...
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine questions the foundation of placebo-controlled trials, citing a lack of standardization and regulation for placebo ingredients. The researchers found that only 10% of cases disclose the makeup of placebos, leading to potential biases in study results.
Researchers found that people with periodontal disease are at high risk for cardiovascular disease and that invasive dental procedures may raise this risk. However, studies have not consistently shown a link between these procedures and cardiovascular events. Meanwhile, peer support programs improved diabetes management in patients, su...
A study found that buprenorphine implants significantly reduced opioid use over 16 weeks, with 65.7% of patients remaining in the study for 24 weeks and fewer withdrawal symptoms. The implants also showed promise in decreasing non-medical opioid use.
Postmenopausal women taking estrogen therapy are at a higher risk of developing kidney stones, according to a study. The research found a significant increase in kidney stone development, with a fivefold greater risk in women with a history of kidney stones.
A new Cochrane Systematic Review found that vitamin D supplements have no effect on bone density in healthy children. However, children with low levels of vitamin D may benefit from supplementation.
Long-term finasteride use has been shown to reduce disease progression and improve urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia. The treatment also reduces the risk of acute urinary retention and surgical intervention, making it an effective option for men with moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms.
Researchers found that rufinamide significantly reduced total partial seizure frequency compared to placebo, with a notable 50% reduction in responder rate and total partial seizure frequency. The study also showed efficacy for complex partial seizures, simple partial seizures, and secondarily generalized partial seizures.
A recent study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism found that abatacept failed to prevent disease flares in patients with non-life threatening systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The medication was administered to 175 patients, but it did not show significant therapeutic benefits over placebo.
A new study found that taking a placebo improved symptoms in about one-third of women with low sexual arousal, with the most improvement occurring during the first four weeks. The key predictor of symptom change was an increase in satisfying sexual encounters, suggesting a need to investigate behavioral factors more closely.
A recent study found that opening a new line of communication about sex can have a positive effect on many women with low libidos. Fifty women were given a placebo instead of a drug treatment for low sexual arousal, and on average, one in three showed an overall improvement.
Adding albuterol to a treatment for multiple sclerosis improves functional status and reduces inflammation by decreasing interleukin-12 levels. The study suggests that combining glatiramer acetate with albuterol is well-tolerated and enhances clinical response in patients with relapsing-remitting MS.
A pilot study suggests pioglitazone is well-tolerated and may be a promising treatment for Alzheimer's disease. Peripheral edema was the main adverse event, but no significant treatment effect on clinical efficacy was observed.
A study suggests that current treatment theories need to be expanded to account for a more dynamic quitting process. Successful quitters can achieve abstinence despite periods of smoking before the end of treatment. Continued cessation treatments without interruption may increase 'real-world' quit rates for motivated smokers.
The SHIFT study found that ivabradine significantly reduced cardiovascular death and hospitalization for worsening heart failure when added to standard treatment in patients with a high heart rate. Lowering heart rates with ivabradine was also associated with improved clinical outcomes, including an average reduction of 15 bpm.
A study published in The Lancet Neurology found that memantine showed significant benefits for patients with mild to moderate dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), with improvements in global clinical status and behavioral symptoms. However, no significant differences were found in patients with Parkinson's disease dementia (PDD).
A new hepatitis E vaccine has demonstrated 100% efficacy in preventing infection, with protection offered across all age and sex subgroups. The vaccine is safe and can be used in both rich and poor countries, as well as for tourists, making it a crucial development in outbreak control.
The CRESCENDO study found that rimonabant increased gastrointestinal, neuropsychiatric, and serious psychiatric side-effects compared to placebo. The primary endpoint of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, or stroke occurred at similar rates in both groups.
A large trial found that B vitamin supplements did not reduce the risk of subsequent vascular events in patients who had a recent stroke or ischemic attack. Despite lowering homocysteine levels, B vitamins were not effective in preventing non-fatal strokes, heart attacks, or vascular deaths.
Individuals with Parkinson's disease who were told they had a higher chance of receiving an active drug showed a stronger neurochemical response to placebo. The expectation of symptom improvement is associated with the release of dopamine in patients with Parkinson's disease and can affect motor performance.
A combination treatment of naltrexone and bupropion, along with diet and exercise, has been shown to reduce body weight by 5% or more in people with obesity. The study found that patients who received the treatment experienced significant weight loss, with those in the highest dosage group losing up to 6.1kg over 56 weeks.
A completed clinical trial found that MDMA-assisted psychotherapy significantly improved symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in patients who had failed traditional treatments. Eighty percent of trial participants no longer met the diagnostic criteria for PTSD, with notable improvements in workability and emotional regulation.
A randomized controlled trial found that patients with chronic low-back pain and degenerative lumbar osteoarthritis who took glucosamine for six months showed no significant difference in pain-related disability, pain, or quality of life compared to those who received a placebo. The study suggests that further research is needed to det...
A new non-surgical treatment for uterine fibroids, ulipristal acetate (UPA), has shown promising results in reducing total fibroid volume and menstrual bleeding. Patients taking UPA experienced improved quality of life, fertility, and reduced symptoms.
A new diabetes drug, dapagliflozin, has been shown to improve blood sugar control in patients who have inadequate control with metformin. The drug acts independently of insulin, promotes excretion of glucose in the urine, and is associated with weight loss and low risk of hypoglycaemia.
A study of 12,064 survivors of heart attack found that folic acid and vitamin B12 supplementation did not lower the risk of heart attack, coronary death, or stroke. The researchers also found that folic acid supplementation did not increase the risk of cancer.
A new study reveals that oral micronized progesterone relieves hot flashes and night sweats in postmenopausal women, with a 56% improvement rate. The natural hormone form offers an effective alternative to estrogen for those who cannot or prefer not to use it.
A study published in The Lancet found that low-dose combination therapy of rosiglitazone and metformin can stop people progressing to type 2 diabetes, with a relative risk reduction of 66% compared to placebo. This strategy could target populations at-risk of diabetes.
PSD502 demonstrates significant time to ejaculation and ejaculatory control improvements, with a 5.5-fold increase in IELT, compared to placebo. Men treated with PSD502 experience reduced premature ejaculation symptoms and increased satisfaction.
Researchers found that extended-release injectable naltrexone (XR-NTX) decreases the brain's craving response when presented with alcohol cues. XR-NTX works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain and was approved for treating alcohol dependence in 2006.
A large trial found that adding misoprostol to standard uterotonics did not reduce post-partum blood loss, but was associated with increased shivering and body temperature. WHO's withdrawal of support for misoprostol use in low-income settings has been criticized.
Researchers tested bosentan for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and found no significant improvements. In contrast, two-day neuromuscular blocking agent therapy improved survival in patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Oral iloprost showed promise in preventing lung cancer among former smokers.
Boehringer Ingelheim announces new data on flibanserin in pre-menopausal women with Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD), showing significant improvements in sexual desire and overall functioning. The study found that 48.3% of women receiving flibanserin reported feeling very much improved, compared to 30.3% on placebo.
Researchers found MP-376 reduced P. aeruginosa density and improved lung function in CF patients, with the highest dose showing the most significant effect. The treatment was well-tolerated and showed a 79% reduction in need for other antimicrobials.
A recent study has found that high-dose vitamin D supplementation is associated with an increased risk of falls and fractures in older women. The research, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), revealed that women who received a single annual high dose of vitamin D had a higher rate of falls and fractures...
Children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis who received azithromycin did not experience improved lung function compared to those receiving placebo. However, they showed a significant reduction in pulmonary exacerbations and weight gain.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that human growth hormone (HGH) improves sprint capacity in healthy recreational athletes, with effects nearly doubled in men who also received testosterone injections. The researchers also noted significant reductions in fat mass but no increase in muscle mass.
SE5-OH containing natural S-equol significantly reduced frequency of hot flushes in postmenopausal women. The compound had no effect on reproductive hormones E2 and FSH, suggesting its potential as a critical component in reducing menopausal symptoms.
A randomized trial found that high-dose B-vitamin therapy accelerated kidney function decline and increased cardiovascular events in patients with type 1 or 2 diabetes. The study suggests that B-vitamin therapy may not be an effective treatment for slowing disease progression, and potentially poses risks for these patients.
A study found that consuming a non-spicy pepper analog increased fat oxidation and boosted metabolism, potentially aiding in weight loss. The research suggests that eating peppers could be a simple way to enhance weight loss efforts.
A Phase 2 study demonstrated that BOTOX provides a clinically meaningful benefit for idiopathic OAB patients with urinary urgency incontinence. The study found that doses of 100U-150U provided the optimal balance between efficacy and safety, with significant reductions in symptoms and increases in PVR at higher doses.
A German study found that high dose UDCA was not superior to placebo in treating NASH, but showed promise in a subgroup of mildly overweight male patients. This result is significant as the incidence of NASH is increasing with rising obesity levels.
A new study found that statins can reduce the incidence of new brain lesions in patients with multiple sclerosis by 55.3% compared to a placebo group. This could be meaningful for patients as new lesions are reliable correlates of future clinical attacks.
New data from the RECOVER study showed that Neupro (Rotigotine Transdermal System) effectively improved both motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease, including sleep quality, mood, cognition, and pain. The treatment also translated into significant improvements in quality of life for patients.
Two clinical trials found SE5-OH with Natural S-equol to be safe and well-tolerated in both pre- and post-menopausal women, with no significant impact on reproductive hormones or menstrual cycle length. The supplement showed promise in reducing hot flashes in post-menopausal women.
A randomized trial found that combining cognitive behavioral therapy addressing weight concerns with the medication bupropion was more effective than counseling alone in helping women quit smoking. The study showed improved abstinence rates and reduced relapse among women receiving the specialized counseling plus bupropion therapy.
Research published in Gut journal finds that a purified form of omega 3 reduces rectal polyp number and size in familial adenomatous polyposis patients. The treatment is as effective as prescription medicine but without cardiovascular side effects.
Mipomersen significantly lowers LDL cholesterol levels by 24.7%, providing a new therapeutic strategy for inherited high cholesterol. The treatment also improves HDL cholesterol and reduces cardiovascular risk factors, making it a valuable addition to existing treatments.
Aprepitant has been shown to dramatically reduce nausea and vomiting in bone marrow transplant patients, with 73% experiencing no vomiting and 49% having little or no nausea. This breakthrough finding suggests aprepitant could become a standard part of patients' care.
A new investigational drug, bapineuzumab, has been shown to reduce amyloid-β deposits in the brain by 25% in patients with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease. This breakthrough finding could help assess the efficacy of other drugs for Alzheimer's treatment.
A new study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that prednisolone therapy does not provide clinical benefits for patients with mild to moderate community-acquired pneumonia. Instead, it may lead to a higher rate of late failures and recurrence of symptoms after withdrawal.
Recent research highlights the existence of multiple placebo effects, influenced by psychological and neurobiological factors. Placebo effects can be robust in both laboratory and clinical settings, and can even enhance the efficacy of treatments.
Patients taking antidepressant escitalopram experienced improved cognitive recovery following a stroke, outperforming those on placebo or in problem-solving therapy. This study suggests that escitalopram may be effective in promoting post-stroke recovery, despite being well-tolerated and not significantly affecting depressive symptoms.
Research suggests NSAIDs like ibuprofen may be more effective for relieving period pain compared to paracetamol. The updated review of 73 trials involving 5,156 women found that NSAIDs are very effective for treating period pain, with some evidence suggesting they work better than paracetamol.
A study found that acetaminophen reduced self-reported social pain and neural responses to social rejection in brain regions associated with physical pain. The findings suggest that acetaminophen may mitigate the distress of social rejection, potentially reducing antisocial behavior.
Researchers found that antidepressant medications can substantially change patients' personalities, particularly those with high neuroticism and low extraversion. Personality changes were linked to long-term improvements in mood, suggesting a potential mechanism for modern antidepressants.
A randomized controlled trial found that high-flow oxygen was more effective in treating cluster headache pain than a placebo, with 78% of patients reporting pain-free relief within 15 minutes. The treatment was also superior for other outcomes up to 60 minutes, with no serious adverse events reported.
Researchers found that bone marrow cells can significantly reduce the risk of death or another heart attack in patients who have had a heart attack. The treatment, known as progenitor-cell therapy, showed benefits for at least two years after the initial heart attack.