Patient education in psychopharmacology and the risk of nocebo-related treatment inefficacy and harm

Abstract

Many studies have shown that educating patients about the potential adverse effects of a drug can increase the chances that those adverse effects will be experienced. Studies have further shown that how such information is communicated can also impact this nocebo risk. Additionally, information provided through patient education can influence treatment efficacy, perhaps by moderating the placebo response. There is therefore a need to optimize the manner in which patients are educated about their medications so that placebo-related benefits are enhanced and nocebo-related harm is minimized. This article provides suggestions on the subject for clinical practice as well as research. Nonspecific factors in psychopharmacology are important and should not be neglected.