Sugar Pills That Work? How Open-Label Placebos Help with Premenstrual syndrome

Original Article: https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/why-placebo-may-work-better-when-you-know-its-placebo-2025a10008an

What Was the Study About?

Researchers wanted to see if open-label placebos (OLPs)—pills with no active ingredients that patients knoware placebos—could help with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). They tested this on 150 women with moderate to severe PMS. Some women were given a placebo with an explanation about how it might help (OLP+), some received the placebo without that explanation (OLP–), and others were given their usual treatment (TAU).

What Did They Find?

The women who took the placebo with an explanation had the biggest improvements. After 6 weeks, they reported about 79–82% less symptom intensity and interference. This group also had very few side effects. Placebos helped reduce both physical (like cramps or fatigue) and emotional (like mood swings) symptoms. Overall, the placebo worked better than many common treatments like antidepressants, especially when people understood how and why it might help.

Why It Matters

The study shows that even when people know they’re taking an inactive pill, it can still make a big difference—if it’s explained properly. OLPs may be a safe and effective option for people who don’t want or can’t handle the side effects of other medications. Doctors could consider offering OLPs as part of a shared decision-making process, especially since many women prefer treatments without side effects. The key? Honest communication.