Placebo in Migraine: The Surprising Role of Verbal Cues

Research Summary

A recent study published in the journal Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics explored the impact of verbal instructions on the placebo effect in migraine patients. Researchers investigated whether coupling strongly positive verbal instructions with a pharmacological prescription could enhance treatment outcomes. In this randomized controlled trial, 102 outpatients were divided into two groups: one received strongly positive instructions, while the other received positive instructions. Patients were assessed using the Headache Impact Test and Numeric Rating Scales up to three months. Surprisingly, those given strongly positive instructions showed no significant improvement, while the other group did. The findings suggest strongly positive verbal instructions do not produce a placebo effect.

Study Details

📄 Title: Placebo effect of verbal instructions coupled with pharmacological treatment: results from a randomized controlled trial in migraine patients.

👥 Research Team: Romanazzo S et al.

📚 Published In: Psychother Psychosom

📅 Publication Date: 2025 Nov 18

⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This summary is generated automatically from recent migraine research. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical advice.