Brain Chemistry and the Placebo Effect
To date all studies of the placebo effect have relied on anecdotal data, viz., qualitative responses as reported by the patient. But a new study that explored brain chemistry found that patients who were suffering with pain released more natural painkilling endorphins after the placebos were administered.
“This deals another serious blow to the idea that the placebo effect is purely psychological, with no physical basis,” said Dr. Jon-Kar Zubieta, associate professor of psychiatry and radiology at the Michigan Medical School. “The mind-body connection is quite clear.”It’s amazing if you think about it–too bad administering placebos in actual medical practice is considered unethical. I once had a bout of chronic pain, and if I ever have another one I wouldn’t mind one bit if a physician prescribed me a placebo that he had convinced me would relieve my pain. I doubt it would take much convincing, either.
Keep Reading
Most Popular

Why China is still obsessed with disinfecting everything
Most public health bodies dealing with covid have long since moved on from the idea of surface transmission. China’s didn’t—and that helps it control the narrative about the disease’s origins and danger.

Anti-aging drugs are being tested as a way to treat covid
Drugs that rejuvenate our immune systems and make us biologically younger could help protect us from the disease’s worst effects.

These materials were meant to revolutionize the solar industry. Why hasn’t it happened?
Perovskites are promising, but real-world conditions have held them back.

A quick guide to the most important AI law you’ve never heard of
The European Union is planning new legislation aimed at curbing the worst harms associated with artificial intelligence.
Stay connected

Get the latest updates from
MIT Technology Review
Discover special offers, top stories, upcoming events, and more.