Nocebo effects by providing informed consent in shared decision making? Not necessarily: a randomized pilot-trial using an open-label placebo approach.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Thorough information of the patient is an integral part of the process of shared decision making. We aimed to investigate if detailed information about medication may induce nocebo (or placebo) effects.

Methods

We conducted a randomized, single-blind, pilot-study including n = 51 psychiatric in-patients aged between 18 and 80 years with a depressive disorder and accompanying sleeping disorders. In the intervention group we provided thorough information about adverse effects, while the control group received only a simple consent procedure. In both groups, patients received an open-label placebo pill instead of their sleeping medication.

Results

No statistically significant differences between the intervention group and the control group were found regarding

SUBMITTER: Holzhuter F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7557071 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature