The “NOCEBO EFFECT” for Patients on Diabetes Medications

ADVERSE DRUG EFFECTS The opposite of the “placebo effect.’ Is the NOCEBO effect and there has been a lot of talk about it. ” Nocebo is the Latin word for “I will harm.”

Positive thinking can make placebos work. Negative thinking can make placebos cause adverse effects.

This might explain why some patients get unexpected side effects. Nocebo effects can cause patients to stop taking a helpful med.

Many patients believe that side effects are much more common than they really are. In fact, patients are under the impression that common side effects occur 50% of the time, In reality, common side effects occur only 2% of the time.

Consider the nocebo effect when counseling patients.

DON’T rattle off the possible side effects of a drug FIRST.

Instead, emphasize the positive. Explain the benefits of treatment. Tell them that tolerable side effects are okay.. .and might lessen as therapy continues.

Keep in mind that some side effects may not be due to the drug, but to the underlying condition. . . stress.. .anxiety. . .etc.

Be supportive. Let patients know that you are there to work with them and their physician to sort out potential side effects.’