This book may cause side effects. The curious and dangerous power of the nocebo effect, placebo's evil twin

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by Helen Pilcher · 2026

A popular-science exploration of the nocebo effect—the placebo’s harmful counterpart—and how expectations, beliefs, and communication can produce real symptoms or worsen illness. Helen Pilcher examines the neuroscience and medical evidence behind this hidden influence of the mind on the body.

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1 episode featuring This book may cause side effects. The curious and dangerous power of the nocebo effect, placebo's evil twin

Something You Should Know
Negative expectations can create real symptoms
The episode connects the nocebo effect to medical decisions, behavior, language, cultural history, and the way embarrassment distorts social perception.
Sep 7, 2026 · 54 min

1 episode featuring This book may cause side effects. The curious and dangerous power of the nocebo effect, placebo's evil twin

Negative expectations can create real symptoms