Understanding the “nocebo” effect, from the Harvard Mental Health Letter
Why do some people faint at the sight of a needle? Or start to sweat as soon as they walk into a dentist’s office? The answer could be the nocebo effect.
The nocebo effect is the mirror image of the better-documented placebo effect. In Latin, nocebo means “I will harm,” while placebo means “I will please.” A placebo can enhance healing or pain relief, while a nocebo has the opposite effect — making people feel worse.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Source matters. Subscribe to HarvardHealthOnline+ FREE for 30 days for unlimited access to the site – where all content is reviewed by an HMS physician or faculty expert.
With HHO+ you get these exclusive benefits:
- Unlimited access to all Harvard Health Online content
- 4 expertly curated newsletters delivered monthly
- Customized website experience aligned to your health goals
- In-depth health guides on topics like sleep, exercise, and more
- Interactive features like videos and quizzes
- Members-only access to exclusive articles and resources
SPECIAL OFFER! UNLOCK EXPERT ACCESS for 30 days FREE!
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
