Is it possible for doctors to use placebos?

2001/05/07 Galarraga Aiestaran, Ana - Elhuyar Zientzia

• Medikuntza
• Etika

In October 2000, medical research in humans established ethical standards that were included in the Helsinki declaration. Among other things, the use of placebos was condemned whenever possible. They indicated that in clinical trials, patients should be provided with the best possible therapy.

However, some experts do not quite agree. According to the US FDA, it is very difficult to test certain drugs, especially psychoactive drugs, since the need for a placebo group is almost essential.

From 3 to 6 May WMA met in France to review the decision taken, as there is no common approach. The priority, of course, is the sick and must be acted ethically, but it is not so clear if we must avoid the use of placebo.