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Cuddihy L, Howick J, Murphy E, Shiely F. When describing harms and benefits to potential trial participants, participant information leaflets are inadequate. Trials 2024; 25:292. [PMID: 38693579 PMCID: PMC11061982 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08087-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Providing informed consent for trials requires providing trial participants with comprehensive information about the trial, including information about potential risks and benefits. It is required by the ethical principle of respecting patient autonomy. Our study examines the variation in the way information about potential trial benefits and harms is shared in participant information leaflets (PILs). METHODS A total of 214 PILs and informed consent forms from clinical trials units (CTUs) and Clinical Research Facilities (CRFs) in Ireland and the UK were assessed by two authors independently, to check the extent to which they adhered to seven recently developed principles. Discrepancies were resolved by a third. RESULTS Usage of the seven principles varied widely between PILs regardless of the intended recipient or trial type. None of the PILs used more than four principles, and some (4%) used none. Twenty-seven per cent of PILs presented information about all known potential harms, whereas 45% presented information on all known potential benefits. Some PILs did not provide any potential harms or potential benefits (8%). There was variation in the information contained in adult and children PILs and across disease areas. CONCLUSION Significant variation exists in how potential trial benefits and harms are described to potential trial participants in PILs in our sample. Usage of the seven principles of good practice will promote consistency, ensure informed ethical decision-making and invoke trust and transparency. In the long term, a standardised PIL template is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cuddihy
- Oncology Day Ward, St. James's Hospital, James Street, Dublin 8, Ireland
- Trials Research and Methodologies Unit (TRAMS), HRB Clinical Research Facility and School of Public Health, 4th Floor Western Gateway Building, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Jeremy Howick
- Medical School, Stoneygate Centre for Excellence in Empathic Healthcare, University of Leicester, George Davies Centre, Lancaster Rd., Leicester, LE1 7HA, UK
| | - Ellen Murphy
- Trials Research and Methodologies Unit (TRAMS), HRB Clinical Research Facility and School of Public Health, 4th Floor Western Gateway Building, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Medical School, Stoneygate Centre for Excellence in Empathic Healthcare, University of Leicester, George Davies Centre, Lancaster Rd., Leicester, LE1 7HA, UK
| | - Frances Shiely
- Trials Research and Methodologies Unit (TRAMS), HRB Clinical Research Facility and School of Public Health, 4th Floor Western Gateway Building, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
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2
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De Brochowski V, Rubin GJ, Webster RK. The effect of nocebo explanation and empathy on side-effect expectations of medication use following a fictional GP consultation. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2024; 29:809-821. [PMID: 37491019 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2023.2240072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
The simple act of informing patients about side-effects increases the likelihood they will experience them (i.e. the nocebo effect). Explaining this psychological phenomenon could help to reduce side-effect experience, however, it is yet to be explored if this can be applied to clinical settings where new medication is prescribed. In addition, the degree to which a health-care provider empathetically communicates this to patients may have an impact. To investigate this, we carried out 2 × 2 factorial trial to assess the effect of nocebo explanation and empathy (plus their interaction) on side-effect expectations following a fictional GP consultation prescribing a new medication. Overall, 208 participants were randomised to watch one of the four fictive GP consultations and play the role of the patient. In all videos, participants received information about the reason for the consultation, the recommendation of a new fictive medicine, how to take it, benefits and side-effects. The videos differed in whether the GP provided an explanation of the nocebo effect (yes/no) and whether they communicated in an empathetic style (yes/no). After watching the video, participants were asked about their side-effect expectations and rated the quality of the GP's communication. Two-way ANOVAs revealed no main effect of nocebo explanation on expectation of side-effects warned or not warned about in the consultation. However, there was a main effect of empathy, with participants watching the empathetic consultations having significantly lower expectations of non-warned-about side-effects. There was no significant interaction. Findings suggest that explaining the nocebo effect and GP empathy did little to allay expectations of side-effects that were specifically mentioned in the consultation. However, GP empathy had an effect by helping to reduce additional side-effect expectations participants still had. Future work should extend these findings to real GP consultations where the full dimensions of empathy can be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentine De Brochowski
- Health Psychology Section, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - G James Rubin
- Health Protection Research Unit in Emergency Preparedness and Response at, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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3
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Pita-Martínez C, Justo-Cousiño LA. [Does patient communication influence kinesiophobia? A systematic review]. Rehabilitacion (Madr) 2024; 58:100837. [PMID: 38316098 DOI: 10.1016/j.rh.2024.100837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
The aim of the present systematic review was to determine the effect of communication in the health care setting on kinesiophobia. To this end, a literature search was conducted in seven databases between November 2022 and February 2023. The review was carried out following the PRISMA statement and for the analysis of methodological quality we used: PEDro Scale, Van Tulder criteria and risk of bias analysis of the Cochrane Collaboration. A total of 13 articles were included with a mean methodological quality of 7.1 out of 10. Significant results were obtained for at least one variable (kinesiophobia, disability or level of physical activity) in 12 articles. There is strong evidence that communication can influence a subject's kinesiophobia. This influence is most likely to be in a negative or disabling sense, but it can also act in a positive sense by decreasing it.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Pita-Martínez
- Unidad de Investigación en Cuidados (SERGAS Área Sanitaria de Vigo), Galicia, España; Grupo de Investigación Traslacional en Cuidados (INVESTIC), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Galicia Sur (IIS Galicia Sur), SERGAS-UVIGO, Galicia, España
| | - L A Justo-Cousiño
- Universidade de Vigo, Facultade de Fisioterapia, Campus A Xunqueira, Galicia, España; Grupo de Investigación Fisioterapia Clínica (FS1), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Galicia Sur (IIS Galicia Sur), SERGAS-UVIGO, Galicia, España.
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Valenzuela B. Landau model for illustrating the learning and unlearning process of nociplastic pain. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2024; 5:1307532. [PMID: 38444432 PMCID: PMC10913031 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2024.1307532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent advancements in understanding the consolidation of nociplastic pain point to a complex, non-conscious learned process of threat perception. Neurobiological pain education is emerging as a promising approach to unlearn nociplastic pain, supported by biopsychosocial tools such as exposure to movement, mindfulness, and group sharing formats. However, this approach is still not well-known among clinicians and the society at large, creating a communication problem that unfortunately perpetuates the suffering of patients. Herein, we propose a Landau model to describe the learning and unlearning process of nociplastic pain, aiming to clarify this complex situation and facilitate communication across different sectors of the society. Nociplastic pain corresponds to a first-order transition, with attention more likely in the alert-protection state than in the trust-explore state. Two appealing results of the model are that the perception of the critical context depends on personal history regarding the symptom and that biopsychosocial loops are formed when there is alarming learned historical information about the symptom, along with confused and contradictory expert information, as seen in nocebo messages. Learning and unlearning in the model correspond to a chang in control parametrs that can weigh more on the alert-protection state, trust-explore state, uncertain state or neutral state. This description clarifies why neurobiological education is the foundational therapy from which others must be built to embody the accessible, clear, and trustworthy information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belén Valenzuela
- Department of Theory and Simulation of Materials, Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales de Madrid, ICMM-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
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5
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Basedau H, Ornello R, Matteis ED, Davaasuren B, Kadyrova B, Vuralli D, Bozhenko M, Azizova I, Bitsadze N, Eralieva E, Ashina M, Mitsikostas D, Puledda F. Placebo and nocebo in the treatment of migraine: How much does real world effectiveness depend on contextual effects? Cephalalgia 2023; 43:3331024231218392. [PMID: 38041833 DOI: 10.1177/03331024231218392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Treatments in medicine impact individuals beyond their intended effects, due to phenomena such as the placebo and nocebo effects. The placebo effect arises from the positive expectation of a treatment being beneficial, while the nocebo effect stems from the negative expectation of a treatment causing harm. Both in real-world practice and clinical trials, treatments can lead to outcomes unrelated to their intended mechanism of action, which we categorize as placebo and nocebo responses. These responses, combined with the inherent fluctuation in a condition's natural progression, regression to the mean, and random comorbidities, make up a significant part of the therapeutic experience. Particularly in pain management, placebo and nocebo effects play a substantial role. By addressing modifiable contextual factors such as patient expectations, lifestyle choices, and the therapeutic relationship, healthcare providers can enhance the effectiveness of migraine treatments, paving the way for a more comprehensive, individualized approach to patient care. We must also consider non-modifiable factors like personal experiences, beliefs, and information from social media and the internet. CONCLUSION This review offers a summary of our current understanding of the placebo and nocebo effects in migraine management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hauke Basedau
- Department of Systems Neuroscience, University Medical Center Hamburg- Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Raffaele Ornello
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Eleonora De Matteis
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | | | - Begimai Kadyrova
- Department of Special Clinical Disciplines, International School of Medicine of International University of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
| | - Doga Vuralli
- Department of Neurology and Algology, Neuropsychiatry Center, Neuroscience and Neurotechnology Center of Excellence (NÖROM), Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Myroslav Bozhenko
- Department of Neurology, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine
| | - Ilaha Azizova
- Neurological Clinic "New Medical Technologies", Baku, Azerbaijan
| | | | | | - Messoud Ashina
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dimos Mitsikostas
- Department of Neurology Α, Aegintion Hospital, National and Kapidistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Francesca Puledda
- Headache Group, Wolfson SPaRC, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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6
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Jeiziner C, Meyer Zu Schwabedissen HE, Hersberger KE, Allemann SS. Pharmacogenetic testing and counselling in the community pharmacy: mixed-methods study of a new pharmacist-led service. Int J Clin Pharm 2023; 45:1378-1386. [PMID: 37338707 PMCID: PMC10682055 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-023-01596-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing and counselling (short: PGx service) in the community pharmacy is not routinely practiced. We propose a comprehensive pharmacist-led service where PGx information is integrated into medication reviews. AIM To evaluate the pharmacist-led service comprising PGx testing and counselling (PGx service) from the perspective of patients. METHOD For this mixed-methods study, we conducted two follow-up interviews F1 and F2 with patients recruited for the PGx service in a community pharmacy after 1st of January 2020. The semi-structured interviews were held by phone call and covered understanding of PGx, the implementation of recommendations, handling of PGx documents (list of concerned substances and PGx recommendation), gain in medication knowledge, and willingness to pay for the PGx service. RESULTS We interviewed 25 patients in F1 and 42 patients in F2. Patients were generally able to understand and use results of the PGx service. At least one PGx recommendation was implemented for 69% of the patients. Handling of PGx documents ranged from patients having forgotten about the PGx results to patients consulting the list for every medication-related decision; the latter often expecting negative effects. Finally, 62% of the patients were willing to pay for the PGx service. CONCLUSION For future PGx testing and counselling, HCPs should consider the patients' health literacy in a standardized way and use adequate communication skills to enhance the patient's understanding in PGx and to attenuate potential negative expectations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Jeiziner
- Pharmaceutical Care Research Group, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Kurt E Hersberger
- Pharmaceutical Care Research Group, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Samuel S Allemann
- Pharmaceutical Care Research Group, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
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7
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Krefting F, Hölsken S, Benson S, Schedlowski M, Sondermann W. How familiar are German dermatologists with placebo and nocebo effects and to what extent are these targeted in clinical practice: A survey within the dermatological community. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2023; 37:2133-2141. [PMID: 37322597 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.19258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Every medical treatment inevitably comprises not only physiological, but also psychological components, reflected by placebo and nocebo effects, which significantly affect treatment outcome. However, the extent of knowledge on the mechanisms steering placebo and nocebo effects in the dermatological community in Germany is currently unclear. OBJECTIVES To assess the state of knowledge about placebo and nocebo effects in the German dermatological community, to evaluate whether this knowledge is already being used in clinical practice, and to investigate whether German dermatologists are interested in learning more about the topic. METHODS German Dermatologists, the majority working in their own practice, were asked to fill in an online survey addressing the knowledge about placebo and nocebo effects and the feasibility of special techniques to enhance placebo and minimize nocebo effects within the clinical routine. RESULTS N = 154 complete (79%) or partial (21%) responses to the survey were recorded in the online database and included in the analysis. All participants reported to know what the placebo effect is and 59.7% (74/124) indicated that they already had experience with prescribing or recommending a treatment without active substances. In contrast, only 62.0% (80/129) stated to know what the nocebo effect is. Participants showed a rather superficial knowledge regarding placebo and nocebo mechanisms. The majority of participants (76.7%, 99/129) expressed their willingness to be further educated about the underlying mechanisms mediating placebo and nocebo effects and the possible application in clinical practice. CONCLUSIONS The current survey offers a so far unique insight into the state of knowledge of German dermatologists on placebo and nocebo effects. The results indicate a need for education about this topic. Encouragingly, however, German dermatologists considered communication strategies to maximize placebo and reduce nocebo effects and expressed motivation to be trained to implement these strategies in everyday clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederik Krefting
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Hölsken
- Center of Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences (C-TNBS), Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Immunobiology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Sven Benson
- Center of Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences (C-TNBS), Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Immunobiology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Center of Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences (C-TNBS), Institute of Medical Education, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Manfred Schedlowski
- Center of Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences (C-TNBS), Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Immunobiology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Osher Center for Integrative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Wiebke Sondermann
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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Oikawa I, Kondo S, Hashimoto K, Yoshida A, Hamajima M, Tanimoto H, Furukubo-Tokunaga K, Honjo K. A descending inhibitory mechanism of nociception mediated by an evolutionarily conserved neuropeptide system in Drosophila. eLife 2023; 12:RP85760. [PMID: 37310871 DOI: 10.7554/elife.85760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Nociception is a neural process that animals have developed to avoid potentially tissue-damaging stimuli. While nociception is triggered in the peripheral nervous system, its modulation by the central nervous system is a critical process in mammals, whose dysfunction has been extensively implicated in chronic pain pathogenesis. The peripheral mechanisms of nociception are largely conserved across the animal kingdom. However, it is unclear whether the brain-mediated modulation is also conserved in non-mammalian species. Here, we show that Drosophila has a descending inhibitory mechanism of nociception from the brain, mediated by the neuropeptide Drosulfakinin (DSK), a homolog of cholecystokinin (CCK) that plays an important role in the descending control of nociception in mammals. We found that mutants lacking dsk or its receptors are hypersensitive to noxious heat. Through a combination of genetic, behavioral, histological, and Ca2+ imaging analyses, we subsequently revealed neurons involved in DSK-mediated nociceptive regulation at a single-cell resolution and identified a DSKergic descending neuronal pathway that inhibits nociception. This study provides the first evidence for a descending modulatory mechanism of nociception from the brain in a non-mammalian species that is mediated by the evolutionarily conserved CCK system, raising the possibility that the descending inhibition is an ancient mechanism to regulate nociception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izumi Oikawa
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Shu Kondo
- Faculty of Advanced Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kao Hashimoto
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Akiho Yoshida
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Megumi Hamajima
- Center for Development of Advanced Medicine for Dementia, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
| | - Hiromu Tanimoto
- Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | | | - Ken Honjo
- Center for Development of Advanced Medicine for Dementia, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
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9
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Bavbek S, Ozyigit LP, Baiardini I, Braido F, Roizen G, Jerschow E. Placebo, Nocebo, and Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in Drug Allergy. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2023; 11:371-379. [PMID: 36521832 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2022.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sevim Bavbek
- Division of Allergy and Clinical of Immunology, Department of Chest Diseases, Ankara University, School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Leyla Pur Ozyigit
- Adult Allergy Service, Glenfield Hospital, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Ilaria Baiardini
- Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy; Università di Genova, (DIMI), Genova, Italy
| | - Fulvio Braido
- Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy; Università di Genova, (DIMI), Genova, Italy
| | - Gigia Roizen
- Department of Immunology, Clinica Alemana De Santiago, Santiago, Chile
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Tu Y, Zhang L, Kong J. Placebo and nocebo effects: from observation to harnessing and clinical application. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:524. [PMID: 36564374 PMCID: PMC9789123 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-02293-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Placebo and nocebo effects are salubrious benefits and negative outcomes attributable to non-specific symbolic components. Leveraging advanced experimental and analytical approaches, recent studies have elucidated complicated neural mechanisms that may serve as a solid basis for harnessing the powerful self-healing and self-harming capacities and applying these findings to improve medical practice and minimize the unintended exacerbation of symptoms in medical practice. We review advances in employing psychosocial, pharmacological, and neuromodulation approaches to modulate/harness placebo and nocebo effects. While these approaches show promising potential, translating these research findings into clinical settings still requires careful methodological, technical, and ethical considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiheng Tu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China. .,Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Libo Zhang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Kong
- grid.32224.350000 0004 0386 9924Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA USA
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Avoiding nocebo and other undesirable effects in chiropractic, osteopathy and physiotherapy: An invitation to reflect. Musculoskelet Sci Pract 2022; 62:102677. [PMID: 36368170 DOI: 10.1016/j.msksp.2022.102677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While the placebo effect is increasingly recognised as a contributor to treatment effects in clinical practice, the nocebo and other undesirable effects are less well explored and likely underestimated. In the chiropractic, osteopathy and physiotherapy professions, some aspects of historical models of care may arguably increase the risk of nocebo effects. PURPOSE In this masterclass article, clinicians, researchers, and educators are invited to reflect on such possibilities, in an attempt to stimulate research and raise awareness for the mitigation of such undesirable effects. IMPLICATIONS This masterclass briefly introduces the nocebo effect and its underlying mechanisms. It then traces the historical development of chiropractic, osteopathy, and physiotherapy, arguing that there was and continues to be an excessive focus on the patient's body. Next, aspects of clinical practice, including communication, the therapeutic relationship, clinical rituals, and the wider social and economic context of practice are examined for their potential to generate nocebo and other undesirable effects. To aid reflection, a model to reflect on clinical practice and individual professions through the 'prism' of nocebo and other undesirable effects is introduced and illustrated. Finally, steps are proposed for how researchers, educators, and practitioners can maximise positive and minimise negative clinical context.
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12
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A randomized pharmacological fMRI trial investigating D-cycloserine and brain plasticity mechanisms in learned pain responses. Sci Rep 2022; 12:19080. [PMID: 36351953 PMCID: PMC9646732 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-23769-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Learning and negative outcome expectations can increase pain sensitivity, a phenomenon known as nocebo hyperalgesia. Here, we examined how a targeted pharmacological manipulation of learning would impact nocebo responses and their brain correlates. Participants received either a placebo (n = 27) or a single 80 mg dose of D-cycloserine (a partial NMDA receptor agonist; n = 23) and underwent fMRI. Behavioral conditioning and negative suggestions were used to induce nocebo responses. Participants underwent pre-conditioning outside the scanner. During scanning, we first delivered baseline pain stimulations, followed by nocebo acquisition and extinction phases. During acquisition, high intensity thermal pain was paired with supposed activation of sham electrical stimuli (nocebo trials), whereas moderate pain was administered with inactive electrical stimulation (control trials). Nocebo hyperalgesia was induced in both groups (p < 0.001). Nocebo magnitudes and brain activations did not show significant differences between D-cycloserine and placebo. In acquisition and extinction, there were significantly increased activations bilaterally in the amygdala, ACC, and insula, during nocebo compared to control trials. Nocebo acquisition trials also showed increased vlPFC activation. Increased opercular activation differentiated nocebo-augmented pain aggravation from baseline pain. These results support the involvement of integrative cognitive-emotional processes in nocebo hyperalgesia.
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Feldman HA, Feldman JA, Miller CC, Walsh G, Tyson JE. Informed Consent for Placebo-Controlled Trials: Do Ethics and Science Conflict? Ethics Hum Res 2022; 44:42-48. [PMID: 36047276 PMCID: PMC9841466 DOI: 10.1002/eahr.500142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The use of a placebo has been considered the best method for controlling bias in a prospective randomized clinical trial and provides the most rigorous test of treatment efficacy for evaluating a medical therapy. Placebos commonly produce clinically important effects particularly in studies where the primary outcomes are subjective. Yet the potential beneficial or harmful effects of placebos are often not addressed in designing a clinical trial, calculating the sample size, seeking consent, or interpreting clinical trial results. In this manuscript, we use an actual study to indicate three approaches that might be considered in seeking informed consent for placebo-controlled trials, and we explore the fundamental ethical and scientific complexities involved with each.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hope A. Feldman
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
| | - James A. Feldman
- Department of Emergency Medicine at the Boston Medical Center at the Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Charles C. Miller
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston in the McGovern Medical School
| | - Garrett Walsh
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
| | - Jon E. Tyson
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston in the McGovern Medical School
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14
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Zech N, Schrödinger M, Hansen E. Avoidance of nocebo effects by coincident naming of treatment benefits during the medical interview for informed consent—Evidence from dynamometry. Front Psychol 2022; 13:923044. [PMID: 36017426 PMCID: PMC9397404 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.923044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction In the context of giving risk information for obtaining informed consent, it is not easy to comply with the ethical principle of “primum nihil nocere.” Carelessness, ignorance of nocebo effects and a misunderstood striving for legal certainty can lead doctors to comprehensive and brutal risk information. It is known that talking about risks and side effects can even trigger those and result in distress and nonadherence to medication or therapy. Methods Recently, we have reported on significant clinically relevant effects of verbal and non-verbal suggestions on maximal muscular arm strength in healthy volunteers and in patients at two time points before surgery. Maximal strength during arm abduction was measured by dynamometry of the deltoid muscle group. Suggestions from clinical everyday life were formulated as presumed negative and neutral versions. Results Here, we report on the effects of two versions of risk information in 45 patients. After sole mentioning risks of a puncture for the placement of a pain catheter, the maximal arm muscle strength was significantly reduced to 83% of baseline several days (T1), and to 84% the evening before surgery (T2). Strength was not significantly decreased and close to baseline at T1 and T2 when risks and benefits of a pain catheter were combined in one sentence. The difference between both versions was significant. With persistent normal distribution of values, the effect was due to uniform reactions of many patients, not to strong reactions of a few. High suggestibility and increase of anxiety with approaching surgery were identified as influencing factors for the neutralizing effect of modified wording. Conclusion We not only suggest an alternative formulation for risk information to avoid nocebo effects but present an objective method to quantify and compare effects of different wordings. Thereby, we provide evidence that concurrently given positive aspects can neutralize negative effects during medical interview.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Zech
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Nina Zech,
| | - Matthias Schrödinger
- Department of Internal Medicine, District Hospital Wörth an der Donau, Wörth, Germany
| | - Ernil Hansen
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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15
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Guscoth LB, Cyna AM. Nocebo language in anaesthetic patient written information. Anaesthesia 2022; 77:1113-1119. [PMID: 35918796 DOI: 10.1111/anae.15824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that how anaesthesia information is presented may influence patient treatment outcomes. We conducted an observational study of anaesthetic-based patient information leaflets across NHS Trusts in England for their nocebo terms vs. therapeutic terms, and how adverse effects were presented. In this study, 'nocebo' is wording that may predispose the patient to expect adverse events such as pain or nausea. Data were extracted and analysed for word frequency, weighted proportion and thematic analysis. In total, 42 patient information leaflets from 61 NHS Trusts were analysed. 'Pain' was the second most common word across the leaflets, median (IQR [range]) 0.82 (0.50-1.0 [0.12-1.47]) per 100 words, second only to 'anaesthesia'. In comparison, 'safe' was the most common positively valanced word which featured eight times less frequently than 'pain' 0.10 (0.07-0.18 [0.0-0.84]) and 'comfort' featured 16.5 times less than 'pain' 0.02 (0.0-0.05 [0.0-0.13]). Multiple examples of phrasing that could have potential nocebo effects included, 'you will need strong painkillers' suggesting 'strong pain' and the need for 'painkillers' rather than using therapeutic terms focusing on 'comfort', 'healing' and 'recovery'. Our results suggest a dominance of phrases with negative content in the presentation of anaesthesia information provided to patients. Clinicians need to be aware of inadvertent generation of nocebo-weighted vs. comfort-weighted communication with patients. Our study findings suggest an opportunity for more emphasis to be placed on therapeutic outcomes and effective mitigation strategies of anaesthesia risks to avoid potential unintended nocebo effects of anaesthesia information leaflets or websites.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - A M Cyna
- Department of Women's Anaesthesia, Women's and Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Discipline of Acute Care Medicine, University of Adelaide, SA, Australia
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16
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Meijer S, van Middendorp H, Peerdeman KJ, Evers AWM. Counterconditioning as Treatment to Reduce Nocebo Effects in Persistent Physical Symptoms: Treatment Protocol and Study Design. Front Psychol 2022; 13:806409. [PMID: 35774946 PMCID: PMC9237388 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.806409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Persistent physical symptoms have a high prevalence and a large impact for patients and society. To date, treatment effects for these symptoms are often limited. Nocebo effects (i.e., negative outcomes that are not attributable to active treatment components) have a substantial influence on treatment success and can be established via learning through classical conditioning. Therefore, interventions aimed at reducing nocebo effects by means of counterconditioning, in which an alternative association (inhibiting the previous association) is learned, could be a promising method for improving physical symptoms. In experimental studies, counterconditioning has been shown promising in reducing experimentally-induced nocebo effects on pain and itch. Application of counterconditioning procedures to reduce nocebo effects on clinical symptoms has yet to be researched. This paper provides a protocol of a 6-week counterconditioning intervention aimed at reducing nocebo effects and clinical pain in patients with fibromyalgia. A study in patients with fibromyalgia is proposed to examine the feasibility and potential effectiveness of this counterconditioning intervention as a novel treatment method for reducing nocebo effects and generalization to clinical pain symptoms. Results can help design an optimized treatment protocol for reducing nocebo effects, based on the experiences of participants and the first indications of treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Meijer
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Simone Meijer,
| | - Henriët van Middendorp
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Kaya J. Peerdeman
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Andrea W. M. Evers
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Medical Delta Healthy Society, Leiden University, Technical University Delft, & Erasmus University Rotterdam, Leiden, Netherlands
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17
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Rossettini G, Colombi A, Carlino E, Manoni M, Mirandola M, Polli A, Camerone EM, Testa M. Unraveling Negative Expectations and Nocebo-Related Effects in Musculoskeletal Pain. Front Psychol 2022; 13:789377. [PMID: 35369173 PMCID: PMC8966654 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.789377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This Perspective adapts the ViolEx Model, a framework validated in several clinical conditions, to better understand the role of expectations in the recovery and/or maintenance of musculoskeletal (MSK) pain. Here, particular attention is given to the condition in which dysfunctional expectations are maintained despite no longer being supported by confirmatory evidence (i.e., belief-lifting the arm leads to permanent tendon damage; evidence-after the patient lifts the arm no tendon damage occurs). While the ViolEx Model suggests that cognitive immunization strategies are responsible for the maintenance of dysfunctional expectations, we suggest that such phenomenon can also be understood from a Bayesian Brain perspective, according to which the level of precision of the priors (i.e., expectations) is the determinant factor accounting for the extent of priors' updating (i.e., we merge the two frameworks, suggesting that highly precise prior can lead to cognitive immunization responses). Importantly, this Perspective translates the theory behind these two frameworks into clinical suggestions. Precisely, it is argued that different strategies should be implemented when treating MSK pain patients, depending on the nature of their expectations (i.e., positive or negative and the level of their precision).
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Rossettini
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genova, Genova, Italy.,School of Physiotherapy, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Andrea Colombi
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Elisa Carlino
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin Medical School, Turin, Italy
| | - Mattia Manoni
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Polli
- Pain in Motion (PAIN) Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Research Foundation, Flanders (FWO) Postdoctoral Fellow, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Eleonora Maria Camerone
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genova, Genova, Italy.,Department of Psychology, University of Milan-Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Marco Testa
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
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18
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The effects of being informed about chemotherapy-related cognitive symptoms with and without self-affirmation on perceived cognitive symptoms of breast cancer patients: a randomized prospective, longitudinal study. Clin Breast Cancer 2022; 22:439-454. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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19
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Aulenkamp J, Steinmüller K, Icenhour A, Elsenbruch S. [From gut feeling to visceral pain : Effects of negative expectations in the context of the gut-brain axis]. Schmerz 2021; 36:182-188. [PMID: 34940915 PMCID: PMC9156504 DOI: 10.1007/s00482-021-00614-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Disturbances of the gut-brain axis are characterized by complex dysfunctions on peripheral and central nervous system levels, which can contribute to visceral hypervigilance and hyperalgesia and imprint visceral pain. Numerous cognitive, emotional and psychoneurobiological factors are involved in visceral pain modulation, which in the psychosocial treatment concept can have a positive as well as a negative impact on the experience of visceral pain. Nocebo effects induced by negative expectations are of high clinical relevance in acute and especially in chronic visceral pain but the underlying mechanisms remain insufficiently understood. Verbal instructions, previous experiences and learning processes as well as emotional factors, such as fear and stress contribute to the development and maintenance of negative expectation effects. Targeted communication strategies, a sensitive use of information in the clarification and positive environmental context conditions can contribute to establishing an adequate expectation management and minimize negative expectation effects in the clinical practice. At the same time, translational research approaches are required to gain further insights into the mediators and moderators of negative expectation effects and to transfer these into clinical practice. In this way the treatment of patients with disorders of the gut-brain communication can be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Aulenkamp
- Klinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Hufelandstraße 55, 45147, Essen, Deutschland. .,Klinik für Anästhesiologie und Intensivmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Hufelandstraße 55, 45147, Essen, Deutschland.
| | - Kathrin Steinmüller
- Klinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Hufelandstraße 55, 45147, Essen, Deutschland
| | - Adriane Icenhour
- Klinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Hufelandstraße 55, 45147, Essen, Deutschland.,Institut für Medizinische Psychologie und Medizinische Soziologie, Ruhr Universität Bochum, Universitätsstraße 150, 44801, Bochum, Deutschland
| | - Sigrid Elsenbruch
- Klinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Hufelandstraße 55, 45147, Essen, Deutschland.,Institut für Medizinische Psychologie und Medizinische Soziologie, Ruhr Universität Bochum, Universitätsstraße 150, 44801, Bochum, Deutschland
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20
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Martino D, Malaty I, Müller-Vahl K, Nosratmirshekarlou E, Pringsheim TM, Shprecher D, Ganos C. Treatment failure in persistent tic disorders: an expert clinicians' consensus-based definition. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2021; 32:859-872. [PMID: 34817664 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-021-01920-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
A standardized definition of treatment failure in the management of tics is currently lacking. Such definition would prevent persistent use of unnecessary interventions and help clinicians to determine when to offer less established treatments (e.g., deep brain stimulation surgery). To achieve an expert consensus-based definition of failure of medical treatments for tics, we used a multi-step, multi-round, web-based Delphi approach involving international specialist clinicians with specific expertise in tic disorders. These experts were identified through professional networks or consortia related to chronic tic disorders. We created a survey and reviewed the questions with stakeholders prior to two rounds of Delphi surveys, followed by a final review and discussion among research team members. Both survey rounds were completed using a sample of 36 expert stakeholders from 14 countries, including neurologists, psychiatrists, and clinical psychologists. The Delphi process led to consensus on 10 statements which formed the final definition of treatment failure. The definition was structured and operationalized according to two separate sections, one for behavioral and one for pharmacological treatments. Core components of the definition and its operationalization included lack of efficacy, adherence, and tolerability, as well as a definition of failure of behavioral therapies as a whole, and of pharmacological therapies as a whole. The group concluded that the components of this specific definition reflect the range and complexity of characteristics to consider in establishing tic-related treatment failure. Future research should assess the feasibility of this operational definition and whether it will change clinical decision-making and improve management outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Martino
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada. .,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada. .,Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
| | - Irene Malaty
- Department of Neurology, Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, University of Florida Health, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kirsten Müller-Vahl
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Elaheh Nosratmirshekarlou
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Tamara M Pringsheim
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Pediatrics and Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - David Shprecher
- Banner Sun Health Research Institute, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Christos Ganos
- Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders and Neuromodulation Unit, Charité, University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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21
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Evers AWM, Colloca L, Blease C, Gaab J, Jensen KB, Atlas LY, Beedie CJ, Benedetti F, Bingel U, Büchel C, Bussemaker J, Colagiuri B, Crum AJ, Finniss DG, Geers AL, Howick J, Klinger R, Meeuwis SH, Meissner K, Napadow V, Petrie KJ, Rief W, Smeets I, Wager TD, Wanigasekera V, Vase L, Kelley JM, Kirsch I. What Should Clinicians Tell Patients about Placebo and Nocebo Effects? Practical Considerations Based on Expert Consensus. PSYCHOTHERAPY AND PSYCHOSOMATICS 2021; 90:49-56. [PMID: 33075796 DOI: 10.1159/000510738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Clinical and laboratory studies demonstrate that placebo and nocebo effects influence various symptoms and conditions after the administration of both inert and active treatments. OBJECTIVE There is an increasing need for up-to-date recommendations on how to inform patients about placebo and nocebo effects in clinical practice and train clinicians how to disclose this information. METHODS Based on previous clinical recommendations concerning placebo and nocebo effects, a 3-step, invitation-only Delphi study was conducted among an interdisciplinary group of internationally recognized experts. The study consisted of open- and closed-ended survey questions followed by a final expert meeting. The surveys were subdivided into 3 parts: (1) informing patients about placebo effects, (2) informing patients about nocebo effects, and (3) training clinicians how to communicate this information to the patients. RESULTS There was consensus that communicating general information about placebo and nocebo effects to patients (e.g., explaining their role in treatment) could be beneficial, but that such information needs to be adjusted to match the specific clinical context (e.g., condition and treatment). Experts also agreed that training clinicians to communicate about placebo and nocebo effects should be a regular and integrated part of medical education that makes use of multiple formats, including face-to-face and online modalities. CONCLUSIONS The current 3-step Delphi study provides consensus-based recommendations and practical considerations for disclosures about placebo and nocebo effects in clinical practice. Future research is needed on how to optimally tailor information to specific clinical conditions and patients' needs, and on developing standardized disclosure training modules for clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea W M Evers
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands, .,Erasmus University Rotterdam & Delft University of Technology, Rotterdam/Delft, The Netherlands,
| | - Luana Colloca
- Departments of Pain Translational Symptoms Science and Anesthesiology, School of Nursing and Medicine, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Charlotte Blease
- General Medicine and Primary Care, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jens Gaab
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Karin B Jensen
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lauren Y Atlas
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institute of Mental Health, and National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Chris J Beedie
- School of Psychology, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Fabrizio Benedetti
- Physiology and Neuroscience, University of Turin Medical School, Turin, Italy
| | - Ulrike Bingel
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Christian Büchel
- Department of Systems Neuroscience, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jet Bussemaker
- Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ben Colagiuri
- School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alia J Crum
- Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | | | - Andrew L Geers
- Department of Psychology, University of Toledo, Toledo, Ohio, USA
| | - Jeremy Howick
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Regine Klinger
- Center for Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie H Meeuwis
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Karin Meissner
- Division of Health Promotion, University of Applied Sciences, Coburg, Germany
| | - Vitaly Napadow
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Keith J Petrie
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Winfried Rief
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Ionica Smeets
- Science Communication and Society, Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Tor D Wager
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | | | - Lene Vase
- Department of Psychology and Behavioural Sciences, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - John M Kelley
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Program in Placebo Studies, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Irving Kirsch
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Program in Placebo Studies, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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22
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Bagarić B, Jokić-Begić N, Sangster Jokić C. The Nocebo Effect: A Review of Contemporary Experimental Research. Int J Behav Med 2021; 29:255-265. [PMID: 34405336 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-021-10016-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nocebo effect, the occurrence of adverse symptoms fallowing an inactive treatment, is much less understood than its opposite, placebo effect. This systematic review of contemporary studies exploring the nocebo effect focuses on (1) the mechanisms underlying the nocebo effect, (2) the characteristics of participants exhibiting a more intensive nocebo response, and (3) the circumstances that might reduce or prevent the nocebo effect. METHOD We included experimental nocebo studies published in English that examined the occurrence of nocebo in various domains (i.e., types of sensations and symptoms) and different levels of nocebo response (e.g., performance, self-assessment) and in different populations of participants (healthy and clinical). Using Web of Science, PsycInfo and PubMed, we identified 25 papers (35 studies) that met our criteria with a total of N = 2614 participants, mostly healthy volunteers. RESULTS Nocebo was invoked by manipulating expectations, conditioning or both. A narrative content synthesis was conducted. Nocebo was successfully invoked in a range of domains (e.g., pain, nausea, itch, skin dryness) and levels (sensory, affective, psychological, and behavioral). Various characteristics of the conditioning procedure and participants' emotions, expectations, and dispositions are found to be related to the nocebo response, which sheds insight into the possible mechanisms of the nocebo effect. Strategies successful and unsuccessful in diminishing the nocebo response are identified. Limitations of this review include a small sample of studies. CONCLUSION These findings point to the universality of nocebo as well as to the importance of participant characteristics and experimental circumstances in invoking the nocebo effect. Further research should examine the nocebo effect in clinical populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Branka Bagarić
- Croatian Association for Behavioral-Cognitive Therapies (CABCT), Šenoina 25, 10 000, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Nataša Jokić-Begić
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Ivana Lučića 3, 10 000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Claire Sangster Jokić
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Applied Health Sciences, Mlinarska 38, 10 000, Zagreb, Croatia
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23
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Toivonen KI, Oberoi D, King-Shier K, Piedalue KAL, Rash JA, Carlson LE, Campbell TS. Both "Vitamin L for Life" and "One Milligram of Satan": A Multi-Perspective Qualitative Exploration of Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy Use after Breast Cancer. Curr Oncol 2021; 28:2496-2515. [PMID: 34287250 PMCID: PMC8293219 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol28040227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) is recommended after hormone receptor-positive breast cancer to reduce risk of recurrence, but adherence is sub-optimal in many women. Behavioral interventions have been ineffective in improving adherence rates to AET. This qualitative descriptive study investigates factors that support women in AET use and suggestions for interventions to improve AET use and management. Interviews with women who persisted with AET (n = 23), women who discontinued AET (n = 15), and healthcare providers (HCPs; oncologists, oncology residents, and pharmacists; n = 9) were conducted, transcribed, and described using thematic analysis. Data collection stopped once saturation occurred (i.e., no new codes or themes emerged during interviews). Two researchers created codes and developed themes in an iterative process; a third researcher verified the representativeness of final themes. This study was approved by the Health Research Ethics Board of Alberta (ID: HREBA.CC-17-0513). Women who persisted described being prepared for side effects and having self-management strategies, strong rationale for AET use, supportive HCPs, and available resources as relevant factors. Women who discontinued described feeling overwhelmed by side effects, information needs, drawbacks of AET, helpful/unhelpful experiences with HCPs, and contextual factors as relevant to their discontinuation. HCPs described health system-related and patient-related barriers, side effect management, and patient-provider interactions as relevant to supporting AET use. The considerable overlap in themes among the three groups suggests broad recognition of salient factors relevant to AET use and that associated strategies to improve use may be acceptable to patients and providers alike. Factors supporting AET use could include the following: education (which may be necessary but insufficient), developing a strong personal rationale for use, being prepared for side effects, having side effect management strategies, reciprocal communication between patients and HCPs, and accessible resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsti I. Toivonen
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada;
| | - Devesh Oberoi
- Division of Psychosocial Oncology, Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; (D.O.); (K.-A.L.P.)
| | | | - Katherine-Ann L. Piedalue
- Division of Psychosocial Oncology, Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; (D.O.); (K.-A.L.P.)
| | - Joshua A. Rash
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada;
| | - Linda E. Carlson
- Division of Psychosocial Oncology, Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; (D.O.); (K.-A.L.P.)
| | - Tavis S. Campbell
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada;
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24
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Winter D, Braw Y. COVID-19: Impact of diagnosis threat and suggestibility on subjective cognitive complaints. Int J Clin Health Psychol 2021; 22:100253. [PMID: 34054975 PMCID: PMC8142858 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijchp.2021.100253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A subset of recovered COVID-19 patients report persistent neurological symptoms. These include non-specific symptoms (e.g., headaches and fatigue) which were found to be affected by psychological processes in other disorders (e.g., post-concussion syndrome, PCS, after mild traumatic brain injury). The current study assessed the impact of diagnosis threat (i.e., information regarding the long-term neurological impact of COVID-19) and suggestibility on endorsed symptoms of both recovered patients and healthy controls. Method: Recovered patients (n = 90) and healthy controls (n = 210) described their cognitive functioning after being randomly assigned to: (a) Experimental group: These participants read an article that explored long-term neurological symptoms among COVID-19 survivors. (b) Control group: These participants read an article providing general information regarding the disease. Results: Recovered patients, but not healthy controls, endorsed more symptoms in the experimental condition compared to the control condition. Moreover, suggestibility was correlated with endorsement of symptoms. Conclusions: Post COVID-19 neurological symptoms may, at least partially, be affected by non-neurological factors such as diagnosis threat. Information regarding long-term effects of COVID-19 may skew reported symptoms with highly suggestible individuals particularly susceptible to these effects. Further research, however, is needed to validate and elaborate upon these initial findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yoram Braw
- Department of Psychology, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
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25
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van Middendorp H, Berende A, Vos FJ, Ter Hofstede HHM, Kullberg BJ, Evers AWM. Expectancies as predictors of symptom improvement after antimicrobial therapy for persistent symptoms attributed to Lyme disease. Clin Rheumatol 2021; 40:4295-4308. [PMID: 34031759 PMCID: PMC8463383 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-021-05760-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVE Expectancies about symptom improvement or deterioration are reliable predictors of symptom progression and treatment outcomes (symptom resolution or symptomatic improvement) in many (non-)pharmacological studies and treatments. This study examined predictors of symptom improvement after antimicrobial therapy for persistent symptoms attributed to Lyme disease, hypothesizing particularly pre-treatment expectancies regarding symptom improvement to be predictive. METHODS A predictive study was performed on pre-treatment and post-treatment individual characteristics, including expectancies, and physical and mental health-related quality of life (HRQoL) from the PLEASE-trial comparing randomized 12-weeks of doxycycline, clarithromycin-hydroxychloroquine, or placebo following 2 weeks of intravenous ceftriaxone. At end-of-treatment (14 weeks after trial start) and follow-up (52 weeks), complete data of 231 and 170 (of initial 280) patients with persistent symptoms temporally related to a history of erythema migrans or otherwise confirmed symptomatic Lyme disease, or accompanied by B. burgdorferi IgG or IgM antibodies, were examined through hierarchical regression analyses. RESULTS In addition to pre-treatment HRQoL, pre-treatment expectancies regarding symptom improvement were consistently associated with stronger physical and mental HRQoL improvements at both end-of-treatment and follow-up (95% CI range: .09;.54, p < .01 to .27;.92, p < .001). Post-treatment expectancies regarding having received antibiotics vs. placebo was associated with more HRQoL improvement at end-of-treatment, but not at follow-up (95% CI-range 1.00;4.75, p = .003 to -7.34; -2.22, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS The present study shows that, next to pre-treatment functioning, patients' pre-treatment and post-treatment expectancies regarding improvement of persistent symptoms attributed to Lyme disease relate to a more beneficial symptom course. Expectancies of patients may be relevant to explain and potentially improve patient outcomes (e.g., by optimized communication about treatment success). TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01207739 (Registration date: 23-09-2010) Key Points • As there is currently no sufficient symptom resolution or symptomatic improvement for many patients with persistent symptoms attributed to Lyme disease, it is relevant to know which factors determine symptom progression and predict heterogeneity in treatment response. • Next to pre-treatment functioning, expectancies regarding symptom improvement and having received antimicrobial study medication are associated with a more beneficial symptom course after both shorter-term and longer-term antimicrobial treatment. • Expectancies are relevant to consider in treatment studies and may be useful in clinical settings to improve symptom course and treatment outcome (e.g., by optimized communication about treatment success).
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Affiliation(s)
- Henriët van Middendorp
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, PO Box 9555, 2300 RB, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Anneleen Berende
- Department of Medicine, Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Gelre Ziekenhuizen, Apeldoorn, The Netherlands
| | - Fidel J Vos
- Department of Medicine, Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Hadewych H M Ter Hofstede
- Department of Medicine, Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bart Jan Kullberg
- Department of Medicine, Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea W M Evers
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, PO Box 9555, 2300 RB, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Thomaidou MA, Veldhuijzen DS, Peerdeman KJ, Wiebing NZS, Blythe JS, Evers AWM. Learning mechanisms in nocebo hyperalgesia: the role of conditioning and extinction processes. Pain 2021; 161:1597-1608. [PMID: 32149863 PMCID: PMC7302337 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Nocebo hyperalgesia is a clinically relevant phenomenon and may be formed as a result of associative learning, implemented by classical conditioning. This study explored for the first time distinct nocebo conditioning methods and their consequences for nocebo attenuation methods. Healthy participants (N = 140) were recruited and randomized to the following nocebo hyperalgesia induction groups: conditioning with continuous reinforcement (CRF), conditioning with partial reinforcement (PRF), and a sham-conditioning control group. In the attenuation phase, counterconditioning was compared with extinction. During induction, participants experienced increased thermal pain in 100% of nocebo trials in the CRF groups, while in only 70% of nocebo trials in the PRF groups. During evocation, pain stimulation was equivalent across all trials. During attenuation, pain stimulation was decreased on nocebo trials relative to control trials for the counterconditioning groups, while pain remained equivalent across all trials for the extinction groups. Results showed that both PRF and CRF significantly induced nocebo hyperalgesia, but CRF was a more potent nocebo induction method, as compared to PRF. Counterconditioning was more effective than extinction in attenuating nocebo hyperalgesia. Neither CRF nor PRF resulted in resistance to extinction. However, compared with CRF, conditioning with PRF resulted in more resistance to counterconditioning. These findings demonstrate that the more ambiguous learning method of PRF can induce nocebo hyperalgesia and may potentially explain the treatment resistance and chronification seen in clinical practice. Further research is required to establish whether attenuation with counterconditioning is generalizable to clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia Athina Thomaidou
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Leiden Institute for Brain & Cognition, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Dieuwke Swaantje Veldhuijzen
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Leiden Institute for Brain & Cognition, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Kaya Joanne Peerdeman
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Leiden Institute for Brain & Cognition, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | - Joseph Sullivan Blythe
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Leiden Institute for Brain & Cognition, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Andrea Walbruga Maria Evers
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Leiden Institute for Brain & Cognition, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
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Thomaidou MA, Peerdeman KJ, Koppeschaar MI, Evers AWM, Veldhuijzen DS. How Negative Experience Influences the Brain: A Comprehensive Review of the Neurobiological Underpinnings of Nocebo Hyperalgesia. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:652552. [PMID: 33841092 PMCID: PMC8024470 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.652552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This comprehensive review summarizes and interprets the neurobiological correlates of nocebo hyperalgesia in healthy humans. Nocebo hyperalgesia refers to increased pain sensitivity resulting from negative experiences and is thought to be an important variable influencing the experience of pain in healthy and patient populations. The young nocebo field has employed various methods to unravel the complex neurobiology of this phenomenon and has yielded diverse results. To comprehend and utilize current knowledge, an up-to-date, complete review of this literature is necessary. PubMed and PsychInfo databases were searched to identify studies examining nocebo hyperalgesia while utilizing neurobiological measures. The final selection included 22 articles. Electrophysiological findings pointed toward the involvement of cognitive-affective processes, e.g., modulation of alpha and gamma oscillatory activity and P2 component. Findings were not consistent on whether anxiety-related biochemicals such as cortisol plays a role in nocebo hyperalgesia but showed an involvement of the cyclooxygenase-prostaglandin pathway, endogenous opioids, and dopamine. Structural and functional neuroimaging findings demonstrated that nocebo hyperalgesia amplified pain signals in the spinal cord and brain regions involved in sensory and cognitive-affective processing including the prefrontal cortex, insula, amygdala, and hippocampus. These findings are an important step toward identifying the neurobiological mechanisms through which nocebo effects may exacerbate pain. Results from the studies reviewed are discussed in relation to cognitive-affective and physiological processes involved in nocebo and pain. One major limitation arising from this review is the inconsistency in methods and results in the nocebo field. Yet, while current findings are diverse and lack replication, methodological differences are able to inform our understanding of the results. We provide insights into the complexities and involvement of neurobiological processes in nocebo hyperalgesia and call for more consistency and replication studies. By summarizing and interpreting the challenging and complex neurobiological nocebo studies this review contributes, not only to our understanding of the mechanisms through which nocebo effects exacerbate pain, but also to our understanding of current shortcomings in this field of neurobiological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia A. Thomaidou
- Health, Medical & Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Kaya J. Peerdeman
- Health, Medical & Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Andrea W. M. Evers
- Health, Medical & Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, Netherlands
- Medical Delta Healthy Society, Leiden University, Technical University Delft, & Erasmus UniversityRotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Dieuwke S. Veldhuijzen
- Health, Medical & Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, Netherlands
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28
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Smits RM, Veldhuijzen DS, Olde Hartman T, Peerdeman KJ, Van Vliet LM, Van Middendorp H, Rippe RCA, Wulffraat NM, Evers AWM. Explaining placebo effects in an online survey study: Does 'Pavlov' ring a bell? PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247103. [PMID: 33705397 PMCID: PMC7951811 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite the increasing knowledge about placebo effects and their beneficial impact on treatment outcomes, strategies that explicitly employ these mechanisms remain scarce. To benefit from placebo effects, it is important to gain better understanding in how individuals want to be informed about placebo effects (for example about the underlying mechanisms that steer placebo effects). The main aim of this study was to investigate placebo information strategies in a general population sample by assessing current placebo knowledge, preferences for different placebo explanations (built around well-known mechanisms involved in placebo effects), and attitudes and acceptability towards the use of placebo effects in treatment. DESIGN Online survey. SETTING Leiden, The Netherlands. PARTICIPANTS 444 participants (377 completers), aged 16-78 years. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Current placebo knowledge, placebo explanation preferences, and placebo attitudes and acceptability. RESULTS Participants scored high on current placebo knowledge (correct answers: M = 81.15%, SD = 12.75). Comparisons of 8 different placebo explanations revealed that participants preferred explanations based on brain mechanisms and positive expectations more than all other explanations (F(7, 368) = 3.618, p = .001). Furthermore, attitudes and acceptability for placebos in treatment varied for the type of the condition (i.e. more acceptant for psychological complaints) and participants indicated that physicians do not always have to be honest while making use of placebo effects for therapeutic benefit. CONCLUSION Our results brought forth new evidence in placebo information strategies, and indicated that explanations based on brain mechanisms and positive expectations were most preferred. These results can be insightful to construct placebo information strategies for both clinical context and research practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosanne M. Smits
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology unit, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Pediatric Immunology and Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Dieuwke S. Veldhuijzen
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology unit, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Pediatric Immunology and Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tim Olde Hartman
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Kaya J. Peerdeman
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology unit, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth M. Van Vliet
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology unit, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Henriët Van Middendorp
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology unit, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ralph C. A. Rippe
- Research Methods and Statistics, Institute of Education and Child Studies, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Nico M. Wulffraat
- Pediatric Immunology and Rheumatology, Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea W. M. Evers
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology unit, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Association of nocebo hyperalgesia and basic somatosensory characteristics in a large cohort. Sci Rep 2021; 11:762. [PMID: 33436821 PMCID: PMC7804006 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-80386-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Medical outcomes are strongly affected by placebo and nocebo effects. Prediction of who responds to such expectation effects has proven to be challenging. Most recent approaches to prediction have focused on placebo effects in the context of previous treatment experiences and expectancies, or personality traits. However, a recent model has suggested that basic somatosensory characteristics play an important role in expectation responses. Consequently, this study investigated not only the role of psychological variables, but also of basic somatosensory characteristics. In this study, 624 participants underwent a placebo and nocebo heat pain paradigm. Additionally, individual psychological and somatosensory characteristics were assessed. While no associations were identified for placebo responses, nocebo responses were associated with personality traits (e.g. neuroticism) and somatosensory characteristics (e.g. thermal pain threshold). Importantly, the associations between somatosensory characteristics and nocebo responses were among the strongest. This study shows that apart from personality traits, basic somatosensory characteristics play an important role in individual nocebo responses, in agreement with the novel idea that nocebo responses result from the integration of top-down expectation and bottom-up sensory information.
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30
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Thomaidou MA, Veldhuijzen DS, Meulders A, Evers AWM. An experimental investigation into the mediating role of pain-related fear in boosting nocebo hyperalgesia. Pain 2021; 162:287-299. [PMID: 32910630 PMCID: PMC7737877 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Nocebo hyperalgesia refers to increases in perceived pain that putatively result from negative expectations regarding a nocebo stimulus (eg, an inert treatment, compared with no treatment). The precise cognitive-emotional factors contributing to the origins of nocebo effects are poorly understood. We aimed to test the effects of experimentally induced pain-related fear on the acquisition and extinction of nocebo hyperalgesia in healthy participants (N = 72). Acquisition and extinction of nocebo hyperalgesia were compared between a group receiving standard nocebo conditioning (Control group) and 2 groups receiving distinct fear inductions: high intensity of pain stimulations (High-pain group) or a threat manipulation (High-threat group). During nocebo acquisition, the Control and High-threat groups were administered thermal pain stimulations of moderate intensity paired with sham electrical stimulation (nocebo trials), whereas high pain intensity was administered to the High-pain group. During extinction, equivalent pain intensities were administered across all trials. Pain-related fear was measured by eyeblink startle electromyography and self-report. Nocebo hyperalgesia occurred in all groups. Nocebo effects were significantly larger in the High-pain group than those in the Control group. This effect was mediated by self-reported fear, but not by fear-potentiated startle. Groups did not differ in the extinction rate. However, only the High-pain group maintained significant nocebo responses at the end of extinction. Anticipatory pain-related fear induced through a threat manipulation did not amplify nocebo hyperalgesia. These findings suggest that fear of high pain may be a key contributor to the amplification of nocebo hyperalgesia, only when high pain is experienced and not when it is merely anticipated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia Athina Thomaidou
- Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain & Cognition, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Dieuwke Swaantje Veldhuijzen
- Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain & Cognition, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Ann Meulders
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Andrea Walburga Maria Evers
- Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain & Cognition, Leiden, the Netherlands
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31
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D'Amico F, Solitano V, Peyrin-Biroulet L, Danese S. Nocebo effect and biosimilars in inflammatory bowel diseases: what's new and what's next? Expert Opin Biol Ther 2020; 21:47-55. [PMID: 32857634 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2020.1817374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The use of biosimilars for the treatment of patients with chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) showed to be a valid strategy to reduce the economic burden of biologics on health-care costs and to increase patient access to treatment. However, the nocebo effect constitutes an important limitation to the wide use of biosimilars. AREAS COVERED We conducted a literature overview to summarize information on nocebo effect in IBD population and to provide physicians with practical key strategies to prevent the nocebo effect in daily clinical practice and to improve patients' outcomes. EXPERT OPINION Despite the proven efficacy and safety of biosimilars, further clinical studies are needed to define the effects of reverse and multiple switches in the management of patients with IBD. The development of new subcutaneous formulations, better accepted by patients, could contribute to reduce patients' negative expectations, and limit the nocebo effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferdinando D'Amico
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele , Milan, Italy.,Department of Gastroenterology and Inserm NGERE U1256, University Hospital of Nancy, University of Lorraine, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy , France
| | - Virginia Solitano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele , Milan, Italy
| | - Laurent Peyrin-Biroulet
- Department of Gastroenterology and Inserm NGERE U1256, University Hospital of Nancy, University of Lorraine, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy , France
| | - Silvio Danese
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele , Milan, Italy.,Department of Gastroenterology, IBD Center, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano , Milan, Italy
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Aaron RV, Finan PH, Wegener ST, Keefe FJ, Lumley MA. Emotion regulation as a transdiagnostic factor underlying co-occurring chronic pain and problematic opioid use. AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGIST 2020; 75:796-810. [PMID: 32915024 PMCID: PMC8100821 DOI: 10.1037/amp0000678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Chronic pain is a common and costly condition, and some people with chronic pain engage in problematic opioid use. There is a critical need to identify factors underlying this co-occurrence, so that treatment can be targeted to improve outcomes. We propose that difficulty with emotion regulation (ER) is a transdiagnostic factor that underlies the co-occurrence of chronic pain and problematic opioid use (CP-POU). In this narrative review, we draw from prominent models of ER to summarize the literature characterizing ER in chronic pain and CP-POU. We conclude that chronic pain is associated with various ER difficulties, including emotion identification and the up- and down-regulation of both positive and negative emotion. Little research has examined ER specifically in CP-POU; however, initial evidence suggests CP-POU is characterized by difficulties with ER that are similar to those found in chronic pain more generally. There is great potential to expand the treatment of ER to improve pain-related outcomes in chronic pain and CP-POU. More research is needed, however, to elucidate ER in CP-POU and to determine which types of ER strategies are optimal for different clinical presentations and categories of problematic opioid use. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel V Aaron
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins University
| | - Patrick H Finan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins University
| | - Stephen T Wegener
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins University
| | - Francis J Keefe
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University
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Meeuwis SH, van Middendorp H, van Laarhoven AIM, van Leijenhorst C, Pacheco-Lopez G, Lavrijsen APM, Veldhuijzen DS, Evers AWM. Placebo and nocebo effects for itch and itch-related immune outcomes: A systematic review of animal and human studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 113:325-337. [PMID: 32240668 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Placebo and nocebo effects can influence somatic symptoms such as pain. For itch and other dermatological symptoms these effects have been far less investigated. This review systematically integrates evidence from both animal (mainly rodents) and human trials on placebo and nocebo effects in itch, itch-related symptoms and conditions of the skin and mucous membranes, and related immune outcomes (e.g., histamine). Thirty-one animal studies, and fifty-five human studies (k = 21 healthy participants, k = 34 patients) were included. Overall, studies consistently show that placebo and nocebo effects can be induced by various methods (e.g., suggestions, conditioning and social cues), despite high heterogeneity across studies. Effects of suggestions were found consistently across subjective and behavioral parameters (e.g., itch and scratching in humans), whereas conditioning was likely to impact physiological parameters under certain conditions (e.g., conditioning of histamine levels in stressed rodents). Brain areas responsible for itch processing were associated with nocebo effects. Future research may investigate how variations in methods impact placebo and nocebo effects, and whether all symptoms and conditions can be influenced equally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie H Meeuwis
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9555, 2300RB, Leiden, the Netherlands; Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, P.O. Box 9600, 2300RC, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Henriët van Middendorp
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9555, 2300RB, Leiden, the Netherlands; Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, P.O. Box 9600, 2300RC, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Antoinette I M van Laarhoven
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9555, 2300RB, Leiden, the Netherlands; Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, P.O. Box 9600, 2300RC, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9600, 2300RC, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Cora van Leijenhorst
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9555, 2300RB, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Gustavo Pacheco-Lopez
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9555, 2300RB, Leiden, the Netherlands; Metropolitan Autonomous University (UAM), Campus Lerma, Health Sciences Department, Lerma, 52005, Edo Mex, Mexico
| | - Adriana P M Lavrijsen
- Department of Dermatology, Leiden University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9600, 2300RC, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Dieuwke S Veldhuijzen
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9555, 2300RB, Leiden, the Netherlands; Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, P.O. Box 9600, 2300RC, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Andrea W M Evers
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9555, 2300RB, Leiden, the Netherlands; Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, P.O. Box 9600, 2300RC, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9600, 2300RC, Leiden, the Netherlands
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34
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Smits RM, Veldhuijzen DS, van Middendorp H, Hissink Muller PCE, Armbrust W, Legger E, Wulffraat NM, Evers AWM. Pharmacological conditioning for juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a potential solution to reduce methotrexate intolerance. Pediatr Rheumatol Online J 2020; 18:12. [PMID: 32033577 PMCID: PMC7006148 DOI: 10.1186/s12969-020-0407-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methotrexate (MTX) therapy has proven to be a successful and safe treatment for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). Despite the high efficacy rates of MTX, treatment outcomes are often complicated by burdensome gastro-intestinal side effects. Intolerance rates for MTX in children are high (approximately 50%) and thus far no conclusive effective treatment strategies to control for side effects have been found. To address this need, this article proposes an innovative research approach based on pharmacological conditioning, to reduce MTX intolerance. PRESENTATION OF THE HYPOTHESIS A collaboration between medical psychologists, pediatric rheumatologists, pharmacologists and patient groups was set up to develop an innovative research design that may be implemented to study potential improved control of side effects in JIA, by making use of the psychobiological principles of pharmacological conditioning. In pharmacological conditioning designs, learned positive associations from drug therapies (conditioning effects) are integrated in regular treatment regimens to maximize treatment outcomes. Medication regimens with immunosuppressant drugs that made use of pharmacological conditioning principles have been shown to lead to optimized therapeutic effects with reduced drug dosing, which might ultimately cause a reduction in side effects. TESTING THE HYPOTHESIS This research design is tailored to serve the needs of the JIA patient group. We developed a research design in collaboration with an interdisciplinary research group consisting of patient representatives, pediatric rheumatologists, pharmacologists, and medical psychologists. IMPLICATIONS OF THE HYPOTHESIS Based on previous experimental and clinical findings of pharmacological conditioning with immune responses, we propose that the JIA patient group is particularly suited to benefit from a pharmacological conditioning design. Moreover, findings from this study may potentially also be promising for other patient groups that endure long-lasting drug therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosanne M. Smits
- 0000 0001 2312 1970grid.5132.5Health, Medical and Neuropsychology unit, Leiden University, Leiden, P.O. Box 9500, The Netherlands ,Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, P.O. Box 9600, The Netherlands ,0000000090126352grid.7692.aDepartment Pediatric Rheumatology and Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, P.O. Box 85090, The Netherlands
| | - Dieuwke S. Veldhuijzen
- 0000 0001 2312 1970grid.5132.5Health, Medical and Neuropsychology unit, Leiden University, Leiden, P.O. Box 9500, The Netherlands ,Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, P.O. Box 9600, The Netherlands ,0000000090126352grid.7692.aDepartment Pediatric Rheumatology and Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, P.O. Box 85090, The Netherlands
| | - Henriet van Middendorp
- 0000 0001 2312 1970grid.5132.5Health, Medical and Neuropsychology unit, Leiden University, Leiden, P.O. Box 9500, The Netherlands ,Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, P.O. Box 9600, The Netherlands
| | - Petra C. E. Hissink Muller
- 0000000089452978grid.10419.3dDepartment Pediatric Rheumatology and Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, P.O. Box 9600, The Netherlands
| | - Wineke Armbrust
- 0000 0000 9558 4598grid.4494.dDepartment Pediatric Rheumatology and Immunology, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, P.O. Box 30.001, The Netherlands
| | - Elizabeth Legger
- 0000 0000 9558 4598grid.4494.dDepartment Pediatric Rheumatology and Immunology, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, P.O. Box 30.001, The Netherlands
| | - Nico M. Wulffraat
- 0000000090126352grid.7692.aDepartment Pediatric Rheumatology and Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, P.O. Box 85090, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea W. M. Evers
- 0000 0001 2312 1970grid.5132.5Health, Medical and Neuropsychology unit, Leiden University, Leiden, P.O. Box 9500, The Netherlands ,Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden, P.O. Box 9600, The Netherlands ,0000000089452978grid.10419.3dDepartment of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, P.O. Box 9600, The Netherlands
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Colloca L. How do placebo effects and patient-clinician relationships influence behaviors and clinical outcomes? Pain Rep 2019; 4:e758. [PMID: 31583366 PMCID: PMC6749893 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000000758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Luana Colloca
- Department of Pain and Translational Symptom Science, School of Nursing, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center to Advance Chronic Pain Research, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
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