The psychotherapist explained the effect of the nocebo effect on the tolerability of treatment

Negative patient expectations can cause real physical symptoms and reduce the effectiveness of therapy, even if the treatment is chosen correctly. Elena Fedkina, a psychotherapist at JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg clinic), told Izvestia about this on April 19.

"Nocebo can reduce the tolerability of therapy, worsen well—being and undermine confidence in treatment even when it works for the underlying disease," the specialist noted.

According to her, the nocebo effect occurs when a person experiences unpleasant sensations not because of the drug itself, but as a result of anxiety, alertness and negative expectations. At the same time, the symptoms can be quite real — from dizziness and weakness to pain, palpitations and sleep disorders.

The expert clarified that such reactions are regularly found in clinical practice, especially in patients with chronic diseases, high levels of anxiety or long-term treatment. Negative experiences, frightening information, stories from friends, or even a form of data submission by a doctor can enhance the effect.

In a healthy business: Russians have become more likely to save on medicines

At the same time, pharmaceutical market sales increased

Fedkina stressed that communication between a specialist and a patient plays a key role. A calm and accurate explanation of the risks, without excessive worrisome formulations, helps to reduce stress levels and increase confidence in therapy.

Elena Govardovskaya, pharmacist at Stolichka pharmacy chain, added that all medicines undergo mandatory clinical trials before entering the market. According to her, the side effects listed in the instructions reflect the results of these tests, so their wide list does not indicate danger, but careful verification and confirmed safety of the drug.

Experts note that the psychoemotional state of the patient directly affects the perception of treatment. With increased anxiety, even neutral sensations can be perceived as side effects, which leads to withdrawal from therapy or its disruption.

Experts emphasize that proper patient information and support is an important part of medical care. This approach makes it possible to improve the tolerability of treatment and reduce the risk of nocebo reactions.

Natalia Smirnova, a member of the Expert council on rare diseases at the Committee for Health Protection of the State Duma of the Russian Federation, said on February 26 that adult patients with orphan pathologies in Russia did not have access to drug therapy. At the same time, as the lawyer emphasized, it is important to start treating orphan diseases in a timely manner in order to prevent dangerous complications and early death of patients.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.