The analysis of 90 placebo-controlled studies published in JAMA Psychiatry included adults with depression, anxiety disorders, panic attacks, ADHD, PTSD, social phobia, mania, schizophrenia and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
In the placebo groups, where participants received a pacifier, there was a significant improvement in their condition.
The most pronounced changes were observed in patients with depression and anxiety disorders. Improvements were also seen in disorders other than schizophrenia and OCD, where the effect was minimal.
Tom Bshore, one of the authors of the study, attributed this to the placebo effect, that is, the improvement that comes from belief in the treatment. Richard Keefe of Duke University added that communication with the doctor and regular check-ups can play a positive role.
Source: Ferra
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