M.M. When is a placebo more
effective? In tablets, injections,
or some other form?
I.K. Placebo capsules are more
effective than placebo pills, injections are more effective than either
pills or capsules, and sham surgery
is the most effective of all.
M.M. Can the doctor’s attitude
improve the placebo effect?
I.K. Yes! When doctors have positive attitudes and expectations,
they communicate these to their
patients, often without even being
aware that they are doing so. This
can lead the patient to have greater
confidence in the treatment and to
show a better response to it.
M.M. If you give syrup to a
patient suffering from vomits,
and this syrup is for provoking
more vomits, but you tell the
patient that it will cure him...can
it cure him? Have you observed
this?
I.K. The answer is yes. There are
classic studies by Stewart Wolf in
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