A placebo is a medicine, substance or any other type of treatment that looks like a normal treatment but has no active effect, meaning that it does not make any changes in the body.
This type of medication or treatment is very important during tests to find a new drug, because in the test groups some people take the new drug while others take a placebo. Thus, at the end of the test, if the results are the same for the two groups, it is a sign that the new drug has no effect.
However, the placebo effect also plays an important role in the treatment of some diseases because, although it does not cause any changes in the body, it can change the way one feels, helping to improve symptoms and even increase the success of treatment. was already being done.
How it works to treat diseases
It is not yet known exactly how the placebo effect works in the treatment of diseases, however, the most accepted theory indicates that use of this type of treatment is based on the expectations of the person. That is, when taking a medicine, hoping it has a certain effect, the body's own chemical processes try to mimic the effect and produce changes in the body, improving symptoms, for example.
Thus, the placebo effect is already used successfully in the treatment of several problems such as:
- Depression;
- Sleep disorders;
- Irritable bowel syndrome;
- Menopause;
- Chronic pain.
However, the placebo effect may also have the opposite effect, leading you to experience some of the side effects you would feel when taking a normal medicine, such as headaches, shaking, nausea, or constipation.
To function properly, the placebo should be used without the person expecting the effect knowing that they are taking it. A good example is to give a vitamin C tablet instead of a tablet for anxiety, for example.
Can Placebo Effect Cure Diseases?
The use of placebos does not help to cure diseases, being only able to alleviate some symptoms, especially those that are related to mental health. Thus, although they can be used in cases of more serious diseases, such as cancer, placebos can not replace the treatments indicated by the doctor.
When can it be useful?
The placebo effect is helpful in helping to reduce the number of medications or treatments used to relieve symptoms, leaving the body less intoxicated.
In addition, when used correctly, placebos can provide a new sense of hope to people with chronic illnesses, improving the quality of life.
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