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.
The updated data show that 51% of patients originally assigned to the Betaseron 250 mcg group can walk with or without assistance, compared to 45% in the placebo group. Additionally, 95% of patients in the Betaseron 250 mcg group are still alive after 16 years, compared to 83% in the placebo group.
Results from two Phase II studies support the efficacy profile of sitagliptin, a novel DPP-IV inhibitor, improving glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. Treatment with sitagliptin resulted in no significant weight gain and a low risk of hypoglycaemia.
Researchers found that women taking letrozole experienced a significantly better overall disease-free survival rate and distant disease-free survival rate compared to those on placebo. This study confirms the protective effect of extended adjuvant letrozole therapy for postmenopausal breast cancer patients.
Research finds that long residency hours impair medical residents' performance, increasing the risk of accidents and errors. Heavy call rotations show comparable impairment to heavy drinking, highlighting the need for safer work schedules and countermeasures.
The ESSENTIAL trial found that low-dose oral enoximone therapy improved exercise capacity and reduced hospitalization rates in patients with advanced heart failure. However, the study also showed no significant difference in mortality rates between the enoximone and placebo groups.
A multi-center clinical trial found that an oral contraceptive containing drospirenone was effective in improving productivity, enjoyment of hobbies, and social activities among women with PMDD. The study showed that the low-dose oral contraceptive was roughly as effective as serotonin reuptake inhibitors in reducing symptoms.
A new study provides direct evidence that the brain's own pain-fighting chemicals play a role in the placebo effect, reducing feelings of pain. Participants who received a sham pain treatment reported increased activity in their mu opioid endorphin system after being told they were receiving a medicine.
A 24-week clinical trial found that testosterone patches significantly improved sexual desire and frequency of satisfying sexual activity in surgically menopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder. The middle dosage group showed a 67% increase in questionnaire scores for sexual desire compared to the placebo group.
A study of 8,405 women found that moderate or severe vasomotor symptoms were reported by 21.2% of former hormone therapy users, compared to 4.8% of placebo group respondents. Lifestyle and medical strategies may help manage symptoms after discontinuing hormone therapy.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that daclizumab can reduce organ rejection in heart transplant patients by 25%. The treatment also showed a lower rate of bacterial infections compared to placebo. Researchers believe this incremental step will help improve outcomes for heart transplant patients.
A review of clinical research on vitamin C and the common cold found no benefit from supplementation for prevention or treatment. However, vitamin C may have a minor effect on reducing cold duration when taken before symptoms start. Vitamin C was also effective in preventing colds in athletes exposed to extreme physical stress.
A randomized trial found that antibiotic treatment does not significantly improve cure rates in children with conjunctivitis. The researchers suggest parents treat children themselves without medical consultation unless symptoms persist or worsen.
Researchers found that placebo treatment reduced subjects' ratings of unpleasant pictures and activity in emotional centers. The study generalizes the concept of placebo effect and its underlying neural mechanisms for both pain perception and emotional stimuli.
A 54-week randomized study found that orlistat, a gastrointestinal tract lipase inhibitor, significantly improved weight management in obese adolescents. The medication was well-tolerated and showed a sustained effect on reducing BMI, waist circumference, and lipid levels.
A stronger version of the chickenpox vaccine has been shown to prevent shingles in older adults, reducing incidence by 51% and total burden of pain by 61%. The vaccine also significantly reduces postherpetic neuralgia, a debilitating form of chronic nerve pain.
Benicar-based treatment algorithms significantly reduced mean systolic blood pressure in Stage 2 hypertensive populations. In Stage 1 patients, 89% reached the aggressive blood pressure goal of less than 130/85 mmHg.
A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled crossover trial found that ondansetron did not have a fatigue-reduction benefit greater than the considerable placebo effect. The study suggests that other drugs targeting the central nervous system may prove effective in combating fatigue associated with primary biliary cirrhosis.
A new study has found that cyclophosphamide significantly improves lung function and reduces breathlessness in patients with scleroderma lung disease. The treatment also reported increased energy levels and functional ability compared to the placebo group.
A study of over 1,500 participants found that rimonabant treatment led to significant weight loss and improvements in cardiovascular risk factors. Patients who received the drug experienced a sustained pattern of weight loss and reductions in waist circumference, cholesterol levels, and prevalence of metabolic syndrome.
A Mayo Clinic study showed that donepezil treatment may slow the progression from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer's disease. Patients with a specific genotype had a longer response to the treatment, which could lead to new horizons in early treatment and prevention.
A recent study has found that patients who received incorrect doses of fibrinolytic agents were more likely to have underlying health conditions, such as lower systolic blood pressure and body weight. These findings suggest that adverse outcomes from blood clot therapy may be due to patient characteristics rather than dosing errors.
A pivotal study found that CyIS significantly reduces chronic rejection and prolongs survival in lung-transplant recipients, offering hope for a breakthrough therapy to address this unmet need. The study demonstrated an 84% four-year survival rate with CyIS compared to 56% with placebo.
A new long-acting injectable naltrexone formulation has been shown to reduce heavy drinking by 25% and is well-tolerated, indicating a potential improvement in intervention strategies for alcohol dependence. The study featured one of the largest samples ever treated with a medication for alcohol dependence.
Researchers found changes in prefrontal brain function during a placebo lead-in predicted adverse effects in subjects who received an antidepressant. This study's unique design uses quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) imaging technique cordance to identify individuals at risk of side effects.
A review of 29 studies found that 19.6% of chronic fatigue syndrome patients improved with inactive treatments, lower than expected figures for other conditions. Behavioral therapy and graded exercise therapy show benefits, but high patient expectations and a perceived physical origin may hinder treatment outcomes.
A study published in The Lancet found that rasagiline significantly reduces disability and motor fluctuations in patients with advanced Parkinson's disease, improving their motor function. Rasagiline was well-tolerated and convenient to administer, making it a promising treatment option for Parkinson's patients.
A study found that Seroquel significantly reduced symptoms of agitation in elderly patients with Alzheimer's disease, improving their quality of life. The treatment was well-tolerated, with no decline in cognitive function observed.
Researchers found that patients given folic acid and vitamin B12 had a 38% decrease in plasma homocysteine levels, while the placebo group experienced a 31% increase. This combination therapy prevented hip fractures in stroke patients despite frequent falls, attributed to osteoporosis.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that treatment with recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) significantly reduces bleeding in brain, decreases mortality by nearly 40%, and reduces long-term disability for patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). The study showed a significant improvement in cli...
A study found celecoxib safe for short-term use in patients with cirrhosis, whereas naproxen harms renal function. Celecoxib did not affect kidney function, while naproxen reduced glomerular filtration rate and increased serum creatinine levels.
A study published in the American Thoracic Society Journal found that montelukast significantly reduced asthma exacerbations and corticosteroid use in young children with intermittent symptoms. The medication delayed the time between exacerbations by approximately 2 months.
Researchers found Celebrex significantly reduced adhesions after surgery, with 55% of mice completely adhesion-free. The study suggests COX-2 inhibitors could prevent adhesions in adult surgical patients, offering a new treatment option.
A study found that patients with moderate or severe hand dermatitis responded significantly to oral alitretinoin treatment, with up to 53% of patients achieving clear skin. The highest dose of alitretinoin showed the most substantial response rates, making it a potential treatment option for these patients.
A study shows Requip significantly improves symptoms of primary RLS, including improvements in sleep and quality of life. Patients treated with Requip experienced greater improvements compared to those taking placebo.
A six-year review of DETROL LA data found significant symptom reduction for overactive bladder patients, including improved quality of life measures. The medication was associated with a low frequency of side effects, particularly dry mouth.
A 12-center study found that an immune-modulating therapy, IVIG, reduces high antibody levels and improves transplantation rates in highly sensitized patients. The study showed a significant benefit of IVIG over placebo, with transplant rates more than double for the treatment group.
A multicenter study found that early steroid withdrawal after liver transplantation increased acute rejection rates, but may decrease the risk of long-term cardiovascular disease and mortality. The study suggested that earlier withdrawal could lead to improved glucose tolerance and reduced metabolic complications.
The study found that raloxifene reduced invasive breast cancer incidence by 59% and ER-positive invasive breast cancer by 66%, leading to a 66% and 76% reduction in these cancers after 8 years. No effect on ER-negative or non-invasive cancers was observed.
A comprehensive study of 13,017 French adults found no significant reduction in cancer incidence with antioxidant supplements, but men showed a 31% lower risk of developing cancer than women. The researchers suggest that supplementation may be effective in men due to their lower baseline levels of certain antioxidants.
A six-week study found that patients taking ADDERALL XR showed significant improvements in driving performance and cognitive functioning compared to placebo. The medication reduced ADHD symptoms by 30% in 80% of patients, leading to better driving skills and safety.
The study found that amlodipine reduced the risk of cardiovascular events by 31% compared to placebo, while enalapril showed no significant reduction. A subset of patients also showed slowing of progression of coronary artery atherosclerosis with amlodipine.
A new study shows that a cholesterol-lowering medication can improve symptoms of depression and cognition in people with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease. The treatment, atorvastatin, reduced bad cholesterol by more than 50% and showed significant improvement in depression symptoms.
Researchers found that DHEA supplementation reduced visceral fat by 10.2% in women and 7.4% in men, improving insulin action and glucose levels. DHEA therapy also decreased subcutaneous abdominal fat by an average of 6%.
A study found that combining antidepressant medication nortriptyline with a nicotine patch significantly increased smoking cessation rates at six months. The treatment showed a 23% success rate, compared to 10% for those receiving a placebo. However, participants taking nortriptyline experienced more side effects.
A prospective study found that combining DETROL LA with standard treatment for enlarged prostate results in improved symptoms of overactive bladder, with 73% of patients experiencing relief. The most common side effects were dry mouth and dizziness.
A new trial shows promising results for Cilansetron in treating IBS with diarrhea, improving quality of life and relieving symptoms. The medication has been shown to be well-tolerated and efficacious in both men and women.
Researchers found that beta interferon significantly reduced brain tissue loss and slowed MS progression, with around a third of patients showing improved outcomes. The study's results suggest that beta interferon may be an effective treatment for delaying the progression of multiple sclerosis.
A recent study found that intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) treatment significantly lowers the incidence of MS symptom relapses and reduces disease activity. Patients treated with IVIg had a lower probability of developing clinically definite multiple sclerosis and fewer brain lesions compared to those receiving placebo.
Researchers studied 31 healthy men with medication-induced hypogonadism, finding that acute testosterone suppression led to low blood levels of testosterone. Most participants showed no significant differences in symptoms between leuprolide plus placebo and leuprolide plus testosterone groups.
A study comparing antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy found that both were effective in treating social phobia, with 54.2% of patients experiencing improvement. However, combining treatment did not yield additional benefits.
A Phase 2 trial showed AMG 162 increased bone mineral density at the hip, spine, and total body by 4-7% compared to FOSAMAX®. The therapy was well-tolerated with a common adverse event of dyspepsia.
A new study found Seroquel to be effective in rapidly relieving core symptoms of depression, such as sadness and suicidal thoughts, in patients with rapid-cycling bipolar disorder. The treatment was also well-tolerated, with a low risk of mania compared to other treatments.
A year-long clinical trial found that prasterone improved disease activity, reduced organ damage, and boosted health-related quality of life for women with active lupus. The treatment, which is safe and effective, could offer an alternative to immunosuppressive agents or large doses of glucocorticoids.
A randomized, double-blind trial found that galantamine hydrobromide did not provide a significant clinical benefit for patients with CFS. Despite being well-tolerated, the study confirmed the lack of effectiveness of this medication in addressing core symptoms.
The Azithromycin and Coronary Events Study (ACES) found no reduction in cardiovascular events among participants treated with azithromycin. The study suggests that Chlamydia pneumoniae may not play a significant role in the late-stage development of coronary heart disease.
A new study highlights the long-term efficacy and safety of the angina drug nifedipine GITS, showing it can be used safely for the treatment of patients with coronary disease. The trial found similar mortality rates among those receiving the medication and a placebo, but lower incidence of heart failure and coronary interventions.
The ADONIS trial found that dronedarone significantly decreased the risk of a first recurrence of atrial fibrillation or flutter within the 12-month study period by 27.5% compared to placebo. The drug also displayed good cardiac tolerability with no cases of torsades de pointes.
The EURIDIS trial demonstrated that dronedarone significantly lowers the risk of first recurrence of AF/AFL within the 12-month study period by 21.6% compared to placebo. Dronedarone proved effective for all recurrences of atrial fibrillation or flutter, including those that were symptomatic.
Rimonabant has been shown to improve body weight, waist circumference, lipid profiles, and glycemic control. Patients taking rimonabant 20mg/day lost an average of 8.6kg, while those on placebo gained 4.8kg.
Emselex(R) has been proven to improve overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms without causing significant adverse events. The treatment has shown efficacy in reducing urinary urgency and urge incontinence, making it a promising new option for patients.