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**BenWired306** · 02-11-2011, 10:34 PM

the placebo effect is documented and is genuine

This is true (BTW, it is unlawful to knowingly prescribe a placebo in the US, no what the reason, except in clinical studies). I wouldn't bet on a placebo to treat a serious underlying disease though (cancer, serious infections, etc). I think this fact also underscores the importance of "the mind" in maintaining health and equilibrium (perhaps via neurochemical mechanisms - endorphins, etc).

In most studies of antiinflammatory agents in rheumatoid arthritis, placebos yield positive results in roughly 30% of patients, very confusing given that RA is such a painful and debilitating disease.

02-11-2011, 10:34 PM	#22
BenWired306 Join Date Oct 2005 Posts 471 Senior Member	the placebo effect is documented and is genuine This is true (BTW, it is unlawful to knowingly prescribe a placebo in the US, no what the reason, except in clinical studies). I wouldn't bet on a placebo to treat a serious underlying disease though (cancer, serious infections, etc). I think this fact also underscores the importance of "the mind" in maintaining health and equilibrium (perhaps via neurochemical mechanisms - endorphins, etc). In most studies of antiinflammatory agents in rheumatoid arthritis, placebos yield positive results in roughly 30% of patients, very confusing given that RA is such a painful and debilitating disease.
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