[Translation]: The placebo effect has always had a bad reputation in modern medicine. It was pure imagination, calcium tablets and at most, proof that a product did not work. But now doctors, scientists, psychiatrists and psychologists are seeking to give it a new and better image. The placebo effect is there and it works, so why not find out how and use it?
Irving Kirsch is quoted in this article addressing the question of why the data on drug treatment for anti-depression are so conflicted. Read the full article here.
From NPR: A placebo can take the form of a sugar pill or even a fake surgery. It’s often used to test the effectiveness of a trial drug. Ted Kaptchuk, director of Harvard University’s Program in Placebo Studies and the Therapeutic Encounter, discusses potential applications for the healing power of placebos. Listen (or read the transcript) here.
The Future of Placebos in Medical Care: New research shows that even when people know they’re taking a placebo, it still makes them feel better. Kojo, PiPS Director Ted Kaptchuk and Wayne Jonas, president and CEO of the Samueli Institute, examine the biological and psychological factors behind the placebo effect and explores how the benefits of placebos could change the future of medical care. Listen here.
Shirley Wang provides an informative article today in the WSJ that features PiPS director, Ted Kaptchuk, and summarizes several placebo research studies performed by PiPS researchers. Read the full article and watch the accompanying video here.