Prue DeAraugoPlacebo Pills for Kids
May 31st 2008 06:39
There was an interesting article in the New York Times on 27 May 2008 about a woman named Jennifer Buettner who invented a placebo pill for children called Obecalp, (placebo spelt backwards). The idea came to her one day when she was looking after her seven-year-old niece. Her niece was suffering from a case of hypochondria and her mother in law suggested giving her a mortin tablet (which apparently does nothing). Ms Buettner decided instead of giving her any drug at all why not give her a placebo. With the help of her husband she started, a Placebo company called Efficacy Brands and designed the cherry flavoured dextrose tablet called Obecalp.
Research has shown that placebos can be effective in treating depression and minor pain, and some parents may feel it is an easy way to soothe an unsettled child.
I am not so sure, I wonder, are we teaching our children that it is ok to treat minor ailments with pills?
What do you think?
Research has shown that placebos can be effective in treating depression and minor pain, and some parents may feel it is an easy way to soothe an unsettled child.
I am not so sure, I wonder, are we teaching our children that it is ok to treat minor ailments with pills?
What do you think?
Photo credit iStockphoto
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Comment by Cheryl J
Rhythmatism
Budget Centsability
Something to ponder.
Comment by Sara Dobson
My Turn
Thanks for your comment. I agree we don't want children to think a pill can fix anything. I think it will back fire when they grow up and the pills actually contain drugs.
Comment by Cheryl J
Rhythmatism
Budget Centsability
Comment by Sara Dobson
My Turn