Open-label versus double-blind placebo treatment in irritable bowel syndrome: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

DiscussionOLP treatment is a novel strategy for ethically harnessing placebo effects. It has potential to re-frame theories of placebo and to influence how physicians can optimize watch-and-wait strategies for common, subjective symptoms. The current study aims to dramatically expand what we know about OLP by comparing, for the first time, OLP and DBP administration. Adopting a unique, multidisciplinary approach, the study also explores genetic, psychological and experiential dimensions of OLP. The paper ends with an extensive discussion of the “culture” of the trial as well as potential mechanisms of OLP and ethical implications.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov, identifier:NCT02802241. Registered on 14 June 2016.
Source: Trials - Category: Research Source Type: clinical trials