A placebo is used in clinical trials to test the effectiveness of treatments and is most often used in drug studies. For instance, people in one group get the tested drug, while the others receive a fake drug, or placebo, that they think is the real thing.

Why do they give placebos?

Placebos are an important part of clinical studies as they provide researchers with a comparison point for new therapies, so they can prove they are safe and effective. They can provide them with the evidence required to apply to regulatory bodies for approval of a new drug.

Why are placebos used in medical experiments?

A placebo (pluh-SEE-bow) is a treatment that looks like a regular treatment, but is made with inactive ingredients that have no real effect on patient health. Placebos are used in some types of clinical trials to help make sure results are accurate.