Wired has a really fascinating article on placebo response and a new study by the NIH about how it works and why it’s gotten stronger in recent years. This is a topic particularly close to my heart, as a great many of the so-called miracle cures for fibromyalgia are little more effective than placebo.
Take Savella, which my pain management specialist recently suggested I try — In 15 week trials, 19% of patients showed improvement, compared 12% for placebo. At 27 weeks, it was 18% and 13%. 24% of patients dropped out of the trials due to adverse effects. This stuff goes for about $150/mo.
Oooh, what a deal, sign me up!
