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Placebo (one of medication)

Chung-Ang University Hosptial, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Placebo produces therapeutic effects through patient expectation and the psychobiological placebo response, rather than through a pharmacologically active ingredient.

Placebo produces therapeutic effects through patient expectation and the psychobiological placebo response, rather than through a pharmacologically active ingredient. Used for Used as control comparator in clinical trials across multiple therapeutic areas.

At a glance

Generic namePlacebo (one of medication)
Also known aspatient in group C will receive none of medication
SponsorChung-Ang University Hosptial, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine
ModalitySmall molecule
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Placebo works by activating the patient's expectation of benefit, which can trigger real neurobiological changes including endogenous opioid release, dopamine activation, and modulation of pain perception and symptom severity. This effect is particularly pronounced in conditions with subjective symptom components such as pain, nausea, fatigue, and anxiety, though it can also produce measurable physiological changes in some objective parameters.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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