Do laxatives hurt. Laxative Misuse: Understanding Risks, Types, and Safe Usage

28.09.202329.06.2023 by alexxlab

What are the different types of laxatives. How can laxative overuse affect your health. What are the side effects of laxative abuse. How to safely treat laxative dependency.

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Understanding Laxatives: Types and Mechanisms of Action

Laxatives are substances used to promote bowel movements and relieve constipation. However, their misuse can lead to serious health complications. Let’s explore the four main classes of laxatives and their effects on the body.

Osmotic Laxatives: Drawing Water into the Intestines

Osmotic laxatives work by attracting water into the intestinal tract. This process, known as osmosis, helps to soften stool and promote bowel movements. But what happens when these laxatives are overused?

Can cause severe diarrhea and bloating
May lead to abdominal cramping
Risk of significant water loss and dehydration

Osmotic laxatives are commonly used for colon cleansing before medical procedures like colonoscopies. However, individuals with kidney disease should be cautious when using magnesium-based osmotic laxatives, as they can affect kidney function.

Stimulant Laxatives: Triggering Intestinal Contractions

Stimulant laxatives are often the most misused type due to their rapid action. How do they work? These laxatives stimulate nerve bundles in the intestinal tract, specifically the Auerbach plexus and myenteric plexus, which control peristalsis â€“ the muscle contractions that move food through the digestive system.

What are the potential side effects of stimulant laxative abuse?

Severe abdominal pain and cramping
Intense nausea and vomiting
Possible long-term consequences on gut motility

Chronic misuse of stimulant laxatives can lead to persistent constipation and digestive issues, even after discontinuation.

Bulk-Forming Laxatives: Increasing Stool Volume

Bulk-forming laxatives work by retaining fluid in the stool and increasing its weight and consistency. While generally considered safer, they still require caution. What should users be aware of?

Adequate hydration is crucial to prevent complications
Dehydration can lead to bloating, pain, or even bowel obstruction
Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

Stool Softeners: Easing Bowel Movements

Stool softeners, while not technically laxatives, help make bowel movements easier by allowing water and fats to penetrate the stool. They’re often recommended for individuals who should avoid straining, such as post-surgery patients. How long do they take to work?

Stool softeners typically take 1-3 days to show effects, making them a gentler option compared to stimulant laxatives.

The Hidden Dangers of Laxative Abuse

Laxative abuse can have severe consequences on the body, particularly affecting electrolyte balance and acid-base homeostasis. What are the most common medical problems associated with laxative abuse?

Electrolyte imbalances
Acid-base disturbances
Dehydration
Cardiovascular stress
Kidney strain

For individuals with pre-existing conditions like anorexia nervosa, laxative abuse can exacerbate heart and kidney damage. How does chronic laxative misuse affect the body’s fluid balance?

Prolonged fluid loss through diarrhea triggers compensatory hormone cascades. When laxative use is suddenly stopped, these hormonal changes can lead to significant fluid retention and edema, creating a cycle that’s difficult to break without medical intervention.

Breaking the Cycle: Treating Laxative Dependency

Overcoming laxative misuse requires a structured approach and medical supervision. What steps are involved in treating laxative dependency?

Medical assessment: Checking serum electrolytes and acid-base status
Gradual withdrawal: Switching to safer alternatives or slowly decreasing dosage
Monitoring: Regular check-ups to assess progress and manage side effects
Support: Addressing underlying issues, such as eating disorders

How long does it take to regulate normal bowel function after laxative misuse? The recovery process can span several weeks to months, highlighting the importance of patience and consistent medical support.

Navigating the Risks: Safe Laxative Use and Alternatives

While laxatives can be beneficial when used correctly, it’s crucial to understand their proper usage and explore alternative methods for maintaining digestive health. What are some safe practices for laxative use?

Follow recommended dosages and duration of use
Consult a healthcare provider before starting any laxative regimen
Be aware of potential interactions with other medications
Monitor for signs of dependency or adverse effects

Are there natural alternatives to laxatives? Many individuals find relief from constipation through dietary changes, increased hydration, and regular exercise. What dietary modifications can promote healthy bowel function?

Increasing fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Staying adequately hydrated throughout the day
Incorporating probiotic-rich foods to support gut health
Limiting processed foods and those low in fiber

The Role of Gut Health in Overall Well-being

Understanding the importance of gut health goes beyond managing constipation. How does a healthy digestive system contribute to overall well-being?

A balanced gut microbiome plays a crucial role in various aspects of health, including:

Immune system function
Mental health and mood regulation
Nutrient absorption and metabolism
Inflammation control

By prioritizing gut health through proper nutrition, hydration, and mindful laxative use when necessary, individuals can support their overall health and reduce the risk of digestive issues.

Recognizing the Signs of Laxative Dependency

Identifying laxative dependency early can prevent long-term health consequences. What are some warning signs that laxative use has become problematic?

Increasing frequency or dosage of laxative use
Feeling unable to have a bowel movement without laxatives
Experiencing anxiety or distress when unable to use laxatives
Noticing physical symptoms like chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, or weakness

If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone else, it’s crucial to seek professional help. How can healthcare providers assist in overcoming laxative dependency?

Medical professionals can offer personalized treatment plans that may include:

Gradual laxative withdrawal strategies
Nutritional counseling to support gut health
Psychological support to address underlying issues
Monitoring for complications and providing appropriate medical interventions

The Impact of Laxative Misuse on Digestive Health

Chronic laxative abuse can have far-reaching effects on the digestive system. What long-term consequences might individuals face from prolonged laxative misuse?

Impaired intestinal motility
Chronic constipation or diarrhea
Increased risk of gastrointestinal disorders
Malnutrition due to poor nutrient absorption

How does laxative abuse affect the gut microbiome? Frequent use of laxatives, especially stimulant types, can disrupt the delicate balance of gut bacteria, leading to dysbiosis. This imbalance can contribute to various health issues, including:

Weakened immune function
Increased susceptibility to infections
Inflammatory bowel conditions
Mental health disorders

Understanding these potential consequences underscores the importance of addressing laxative misuse and seeking appropriate medical care.

Exploring Prescription Medications for Chronic Constipation

For individuals with chronic slow transit constipation, over-the-counter laxatives may not be sufficient. What prescription options are available for managing persistent constipation?

Several medications can target underlying causes of chronic constipation:

Prokinetic agents: Enhance intestinal motility
Chloride channel activators: Increase intestinal fluid secretion
Guanylate cyclase-C agonists: Promote intestinal secretion and transit
5-HT4 receptor agonists: Stimulate peristalsis

How do these prescription medications differ from over-the-counter laxatives? Prescription options often target specific mechanisms in the digestive system, potentially offering more targeted and sustainable relief for chronic constipation. However, they should only be used under medical supervision due to potential side effects and interactions.

Holistic Approaches to Digestive Health

While laxatives and medications play a role in managing constipation, adopting a holistic approach to digestive health can provide long-term benefits. What lifestyle changes can support optimal digestive function?

Regular physical activity to promote intestinal motility
Stress management techniques, such as meditation or yoga
Adequate sleep to support overall health and digestion
Mindful eating practices to improve digestion and nutrient absorption

How can individuals incorporate these practices into their daily routines? Start with small, sustainable changes:

Set a regular sleep schedule
Take short walks after meals to aid digestion
Practice deep breathing exercises before eating
Gradually increase fiber intake through whole foods

By focusing on overall digestive health, many individuals find they can reduce their reliance on laxatives and improve their quality of life.

The Importance of Professional Guidance in Digestive Health

Navigating digestive health issues, especially those involving laxative use, requires expert guidance. Why is it crucial to consult healthcare professionals when dealing with chronic constipation or laxative dependency?

Accurate diagnosis of underlying conditions
Personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs
Monitoring for potential complications or side effects
Access to a range of treatment options, including lifestyle modifications and medications

What types of healthcare providers can offer support for digestive health issues?

Gastroenterologists: Specialize in digestive system disorders
Primary care physicians: Provide initial assessments and referrals
Registered dietitians: Offer nutritional guidance for digestive health
Mental health professionals: Address psychological aspects of eating disorders or laxative misuse

By working with a team of healthcare professionals, individuals can develop comprehensive strategies to manage digestive issues safely and effectively, reducing the risk of laxative misuse and its associated complications.

Education and Prevention: Key Steps in Combating Laxative Misuse

Preventing laxative misuse begins with education and awareness. What role can public health initiatives play in addressing this issue?

Providing accurate information about laxative use and potential risks
Promoting healthy digestive habits from an early age
Offering resources for individuals struggling with laxative dependency
Encouraging open discussions about digestive health to reduce stigma

How can healthcare providers contribute to prevention efforts? Implementing screening protocols for laxative misuse during routine check-ups can help identify at-risk individuals early. Additionally, providing patient education on proper laxative use and alternative constipation management strategies can prevent the development of dependency.

What steps can individuals take to educate themselves about safe laxative use?

Research reputable sources for information on digestive health
Consult healthcare providers before starting any laxative regimen
Learn about the different types of laxatives and their appropriate uses
Stay informed about potential side effects and warning signs of misuse

By fostering a culture of education and prevention, we can reduce the incidence of laxative misuse and promote overall digestive health in communities.

Embracing a Balanced Approach to Digestive Wellness

Achieving optimal digestive health involves more than just managing symptoms; it requires a comprehensive approach that addresses physical, mental, and emotional well-being. How can individuals cultivate a balanced relationship with their digestive system?

Practice mindful eating to improve digestion and nutrient absorption
Explore the connection between stress and digestive issues
Develop a positive body image and relationship with food
Seek support from healthcare providers and support groups when needed

What role does self-awareness play in maintaining digestive health? By tuning into their body’s signals and needs, individuals can better understand their digestive patterns and make informed choices about diet, lifestyle, and when to seek medical attention.

How can we promote a more holistic view of digestive health in society?

Encourage open conversations about digestive issues to reduce stigma
Integrate digestive health education into school curricula
Support research into the complex interactions between gut health and overall well-being
Advocate for policies that promote access to nutritious foods and healthcare resources

By embracing a balanced approach to digestive wellness, we can move beyond the cycle of laxative dependency and towards a healthier, more harmonious relationship with our bodies.

The Effects of Laxative Overuse and Misuse on the Stomach

Types of laxatives

There are four main classes of laxatives:¹

Osmotic
Stimulant laxative
Bulk-forming
Stool softeners

Osmotic laxatives

Osmotic laxatives are poorly absorbable substances, meaning they pass through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract relatively undigested. They draw water into the intestinal tract, which helps to hydrate, soften, and gently propel fecal matter along the tract. The process by which soluble, non-absorbable substances draw water into the lumen is called osmosis. When used inappropriately, they can cause uncomfortable to severe diarrhea, bloating, abdominal cramping, and, in some cases, significant water loss and dehydration.

These types of laxatives are most commonly used for cleansing the colon in preparation for a colonoscopy or to remove toxic substances, like in the setting of liver failure (hepatic encephalopathy). For those who take Milk of Magnesia in the setting of kidney disease, the magnesium is partly excreted through the kidneys, so this is not recommended.^1,2,3

Stimulant laxatives

Stimulant laxatives may be prescribed for the treatment of constipation, but this category of laxatives tends to be the most commonly misused form of laxatives due to their rapid onset of action. They stimulate nerve bundles within the intestinal tract, called the Auerbach plexus and myenteric plexus. These nerves control the natural slow-moving muscle contractions that propel food from the mouth to the anus. This smooth muscle contraction is called peristalsis. Stimulant laxatives also decrease how much water is absorbed from food within the lumen of the bowel.¹

They can cause:

Considerable abdominal pain
Severe stomach cramps
Severe nausea
Vomiting

With treatment that addresses laxative weaning, some symptoms can be resolved, but someone who has misused stimulant laxatives for a long time could struggle with constipation and gut dysmotility permanently. ⁷

Bulk-forming laxatives

These agents help to retain fluid in the stool and increase stool weight and consistency. Individuals on these types of laxatives need to drink ample amounts of water. Even slight amounts of dehydration can result in bloating, pain, and even a bowel obstruction (where stool becomes completely impacted). Some people do report common side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea from taking a bulk-forming laxative.¹

Stool softeners

This group includes sodium or calcium salts that act as anionic surfactants. This lowers the surface tension at the oil-water interface of feces, which allows water and fats to better penetrate the stool and mix. This softens fecal matter, making having a bowel movement easier. It is commonly recommended for those who should avoid straining, like after surgery. Because they do not exert stimulant actions, they are not technically considered a laxative. The onset of action takes a bit longer, usually between 1-3 days after ingestion. ⁸

There are prescription medications that are not intended primarily for laxative effect but to help an underlying cause of constipation, like chronic slow transit constipation.

Side effects of laxative abuse

The most common medical problems associated with laxative abuse include electrolyte and acid/base changes. Chronic diarrhea causes the body to lose important fluids and electrolytes, which places undue pressure on the heart and kidneys. For those with anorexia nervosa who may already have the beginnings of heart and kidney damage, using laxatives can further exacerbate harm.^1,4,7

When excessive amounts of fluid are lost through diarrhea long term, hormone cascades activate to compensate. If someone abruptly stops using laxatives, the renin-aldosterone hormone system continues to tell the body to hold fluid. This will cause someone to develop significant swelling, called edema. This can make someone feel bloated, which may trigger a return to laxative abuse. They will also likely struggle with painful rebound constipation. The cycle can be difficult to break and should be done with the help of a medical professional.^1,4,7

Treating a laxative habit and misuse

When trying to correct laxative misuse, medical tests, and labs should be performed to check the status of serum electrolytes and acid/base status. After an individual begins treatment to address their eating disorder, a healthcare provider will likely have the person switch to something safer or steadily decrease the dose. This stepwise fashion of carefully withdrawing laxatives helps the body to re-establish normal bowel movements and is the best and safest way to alleviate stomach cramps from laxative abuse.^1,4,7

It can take a few weeks to months to regulate normal bowel cycles again. Recovery is a journey and takes time. If you are struggling to break the cycle of laxative overuse, reaching out for support is an important step toward healing. At Within Health, we educate our clients on what symptoms and side effects to anticipate, so they can heal from laxative abuse and any underlying eating disorders.

Disclaimer about “overeating”: Within Health hesitatingly uses the word “overeating” because it is the term currently associated with this condition in society, however, we believe it inherently overlooks the various psychological aspects of this condition which are often interconnected with internalized diet culture, and a restrictive mindset about food. For the remainder of this piece, we will therefore be putting “overeating” in quotations to recognize that the diagnosis itself pathologizes behavior that is potentially hardwired and adaptive to a restrictive mindset.

Disclaimer about weight loss drugs: Within does not endorse the use of any weight loss drug or behavior and seeks to provide education on the insidious nature of diet culture. We understand the complex nature of disordered eating and eating disorders and strongly encourage anyone engaging in these behaviors to reach out for help as soon as possible. No statement should be taken as healthcare advice. All healthcare decisions should be made with your individual healthcare provider.

Stimulant Laxatives: Uses and Side Effects

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Medically reviewed by Dena Westphalen, Pharm. D. — By Scott Frothingham — Updated on September 15, 2018

What is a stimulant laxative?

Laxatives help you pass stool (have a bowel movement). There are five basic types of laxatives:

Stimulant. Stimulant laxatives trigger the intestines to contract and push out the stool.
Osmotic. Osmotic laxatives draw water into the bowel from the surrounding tissues to soften stools and increase bowel movement frequency.
Bulk-forming. These laxatives contain fiber which soaks up the water in your intestines and produces bulkier stool. Larger stool makes the bowel contract and push out the stool.
Stool softeners. These mild laxatives soften dry, hard stool with water that they pull into the stool from the intestine, making it easier to push out the stool.
Lubricants. These oily laxatives coat the surface of the stool to retain stool fluid and make it easier to push out the stool.

The active ingredient in stimulant laxatives is usually either senna (also known as sennosides) or bisacodyl.

Stimulant laxatives can be used to treat constipation. They can be one of the faster acting types of laxative.

Constipation

Healthy humans typically have bowel movements (BMs) between three times a week to three times a day. While doctors consider less than three bowel movements a week as constipation, there are other symptoms to consider, in addition to frequency.

Symptoms also associated with constipation include:

difficulty passing BMs
hard BM consistency
abdominal cramping
feelings of incomplete bowel movement

Untreated, chronic constipation might lead to fecal impaction. This condition occurs when your rectum becomes obstructed with a clog of fecal matter.

Some of the side effects that you can experience with stimulant laxatives include:

burping
abdominal cramping
diarrhea
nausea

Also, you might notice that your urine turns a brownish-red color when you’re taking a laxative that uses senna.

As always, discuss the side effects from any medication you’re taking with your doctor. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects while taking stimulant laxatives:

irregular heartbeat
faintness
confusion
muscle aches
fatigue or weakness
skin rash

You shouldn’t use a stimulant laxative if:

you’ve had a previous allergic reaction to any stimulant laxatives
you’ve any sort of intestinal blockage
you’re experiencing undiagnosed rectal bleeding
you’re experiencing signs of appendicitis (severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting)

Also, before using a stimulant laxative, talk with your doctor about your current health conditions, especially:

diabetes
high blood pressure
heart disease

And let your doctor know if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not use stimulant laxatives for more than a week unless specifically advised by your doctor to do so.
Understand that stimulant laxatives can be habit forming and can be harmful to your bowels if used for an extended period of time.
Don’t give stimulant laxatives to a child under the age of 6 unless instructed to do so by the child’s pediatrician.
Follow the directions on the label unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.

At your drugstore, you’ll find many brands of stimulant laxatives in a variety of forms, such as liquids, powders, chewables, tablets, and suppositories. Here are some brand names:

Ex-Lax (sennosides)
Senexon (sennosides)
Fletcher’s Castoria (sennosides)
Senokot (sennosides)
Black Draught (sennosides)
Feen-A Mint (bisacodyl)
Correctol (bisacodyl)
Dulcolax (bisacodyl)
Carter’s Little Pills (bisacodyl)

Constipation can be very uncomfortable and worrisome. Stimulant laxatives work, for many people, as an effective treatment for constipation. These laxatives function by causing the intestinal muscles to rhythmically contract and help push out, or “stimulate” a bowel movement.

As with many medications, there are risks. Always discuss laxative use with your doctor, and follow their recommendations.

Last medically reviewed on September 14, 2018

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Bisacodyl. (2018).
medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601027.html
Laxative, Stimulant (By mouth). (n.d.)
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMHT0010875/
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2017). Over-the-counter laxatives for constipation: Use with caution.
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/constipation/in-depth/laxatives/art-20045906
Paré P, et al. (2014). Systematic review of stimulant and nonstimulant laxatives for the treatment of functional constipation.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4234355/
Senna. (2018).
medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601112.html

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Medically reviewed by Dena Westphalen, Pharm.D. — By Scott Frothingham — Updated on September 15, 2018

Russians warned against uncontrolled use of one group of drugs

06/08/2023 at 14:26

Society

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Photo: pixabay. com

In an interview with Lenta.ru, doctor Maryana Abritsova told how dangerous the uncontrolled use of laxatives is. The proctologist shared information on the air of the program “On the most important thing”, broadcast by the channel “Russia 1”.

According to the expert, frequent use of the drug leads to destabilization of intestinal microorganisms and deterioration of general well-being.

“Any uncontrolled intake of laxatives affects the general condition of the body, from well-being to imbalance of the intestinal microflora,” the doctor said on the air.

Abritsova also warned about the risk of addiction and even the development of intestinal melanosis in case of uncontrolled use of stimulant laxatives, which contain natural ingredients.

Authors:

org/Person”>
Polina Petrusevich

Russia

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A matter of habit

If not a single day of your life goes without some kind of medication, maybe we can talk about addiction?

Tags:

injections

One US study found that about 40% of women in their 30s were addicted to laxatives. But even among our acquaintances (and among ourselves) there will certainly be someone to whom talk about addiction to drugs does not seem like an empty phrase.

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

WHAT ARE WE SITTING ON?
You can get used to drugs in different ways. In the first case, , this is not even an addiction, but a drug dependence on the drug. Such a medicine, for example, can be morphine or any of the tranquilizers. This addiction is quite rare. These drugs are prescribed in special cases by the appropriate specialists, and if taken under the supervision of a doctor, dependence can be avoided.

The second kind of addiction is just our topic. The body gets so used to some non-narcotic drug that it “unlearns” how to work on its own. This type includes many drugs, but primarily laxatives, as well as some vasoconstrictor nasal drops and antiallergic drugs.

And finally, the third case is psychological dependence. Surely you have come across people who sincerely believe that without a certain medicine they will get seriously and for a long time ill… Yes, it happens.

A LITTLE DRUG ADDICTION
There are drugs that are sold in pharmacies without a prescription and, despite all their harmlessness, can sometimes cause a real drug addiction. It is definitely worth mentioning them – just so that you are in the know.

Many patients consider it normal to self-prescribe medications (we habitually drink Corvalol when we suffer from insomnia and experience anxiety, and we take pentalgin for severe headaches) and sometimes get too carried away with taking them without thinking about the consequences. And the same Corvalol and Pentalgin contain phenobarbital – a poison that poisons the body and is addictive. Of course, its content in these drugs is negligible, but nevertheless … Doctors say that addiction appears in about 10% of patients, but this is not so too little.

There is only one way out: And do not take these drugs just like that, “for prevention” and strictly follow the dosage indicated in the instructions.

AMBULANCE
In our crazy times, not everyone has the opportunity to go to the doctor for all sorts of minor reasons. Runny nose? But who does not know how to treat it! Constipation? Even easier! And then we get a sad result – the inability to refuse your favorite medicine. This is not drug addiction, this is tolerance, or the body’s resistance to drugs. It can be overcome by changing the drug. Here’s how it works in each case.

Laxatives
It doesn’t matter why you started taking them. Maybe the constipation that tormented you since childhood was the reason for everything, or perhaps in such a simple way you dreamed of getting rid of those extra pounds. The truth is that laxatives disrupt the functioning of the colon, which harms not only your intestines, but the whole body. And if before you started taking laxatives you did not experience problems with stools, then they will definitely appear.

There is an exit. It is important to follow a diet: include as many fruits and vegetables, cereals, kefir or yogurt as possible in the diet. Limit yourself in sweet, flour and dairy products. Stop taking laxatives and replace them with vegetable oil

(preferably olive). Take it in a tablespoon three times a day. And – to the doctor, to the doctor …

Vasoconstrictor drops
Addiction to drops has a medical name – vasomotor rhinitis. It is not difficult to avoid it, you just need to give up vasoconstrictor drops after three to five days of using them. Or at least take a break from treatment. But getting rid of, especially from a running one, is difficult. The first and main advice is to contact an ENT doctor who will help you cope with addiction. The second is to abandon the use of drops and start irrigating the nasal cavity with special saline solutions sold in pharmacies. Habitual drops should be dissolved with water for injection or saline solution, gradually increasing the amount of water.

Antihistamines
Drugs that were used to treat allergies 20 years ago had many side effects – addiction is one of them. The most famous and popular drug suprastin should not be used for a long time for this very reason.

In the sad list of addictive drugs, by the way, are known to many pills to reduce appetite. Is it necessary to say that their reception is possible only under the supervision of the doctor who prescribed them?

PSYCHOLOGICAL ABNORMAL
The problem of psychological addiction to pills is quite acute. What if the doctor who prescribed the medicine decides that it should be discontinued, but the patient insists otherwise? The placebo effect is also widely known, when a familiar drug is replaced with a neutral substance in the form of such a drug. A placebo has an effect in 20% of cases, that is, when the patient is convinced that only this particular medicine will certainly help from his illness.