Placebo Effects in Neurology

by Fabrizio Benedetti MD (ed.), Aziz Shaibani MD, FACP, FAAN (ed.) Placebo Effects in Neurology delves into the intriguing phenomenon of placebos and their profound impact on neurological disorders. This book explores how placebo effects, occurring both in clinical trials and real-world practice, influence therapeutic outcomes, doctor-patient relationships, and symptom perception. The content provides insights into psychobiological mechanisms and specific conditions such as Parkinson's disease and migraine while addressing ethical and methodological concerns. With discussions on both deceptive and open-label placebos, the book invites readers to reconsider the potential of this underappreciated tool in neurology, offering a bridge between scientific research and practical application in the treatment of various conditions.Beyond its focus on placebo mechanisms, the book examines their role in alleviating symptoms of neuropathic pain, peripheral neuropathies, fatigue, and neuropsychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety. It also presents a methodological lens on how placebos are used to validate treatments in trials while debating their ethical implications. By weaving together science, ethics, and practical insights, Placebo Effects in Neurology stands out as a compelling resource for clinicians, researchers, and anyone interested in the nuanced intersection of psychology and neurology. - Reviews placebo effects for individual neurological and psychiatric disorders - Covers benefits in therapeutic outcomes, symptom perception, and doctor-patient relationships - Discusses the psychobiological mechanisms of how placebos work - Considers minimizing placebo and nocebo effects in clinical trials