Examining how attention affects the placebo effect
Official title: Effects of Attention and Placebo Modulation on Cycling Performance: an Experimental Study on Stationary Bikes
Run by Catholic University of the Sacred Heart · NCT06827444 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing how focusing your attention during exercise can change the effects of a placebo drink on healthy people.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 19 Years to 99 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 128 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Catholic University of the Sacred Heart Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Milan, Milano) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 7, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 12, 2024 |
| Study ends | May 2025 |
| Registry record updated | February 14, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06827444 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are healthy adults aged 18 and older who can provide a medical certificate confirming their good health.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with known cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal diseases, musculoskeletal injuries, upper respiratory tract infections, or caffeine allergies may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This project investigates the impact of attention on the placebo effect by manipulating participants' focus during a physical exercise session. A total of 128 healthy individuals will cycle on an ergometer for about 60 minutes, with phases where their attention is directed or manipulated. Participants will receive a placebo drink presented as stimulating, while a control group will undergo the same cycling without the placebo or attention manipulation. The study aims to understand how mindful and directed attention can influence the mind-body interaction and the effectiveness of the placebo effect.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance our understanding of how attention can be harnessed to improve the efficacy of placebo treatments.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of manipulating attention in relation to the placebo effect is novel, related studies have shown that attention can influence health outcomes.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Persons (18+) in good health, verified by presenting a medical certificate (sporting, competitive or non-competitive, or of good health). * Be available to go to a gym. If not enrolled, the cost of admission is borne by the project. Exclusion Criteria: * known cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal diseases, musculoskeletal injuries, upper respiratory tract infections; * allergy and/or intolerance to caffeine.
Where it's running
-
Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
Milan, Milano, Italy Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Francesca NA Grosso, MD
- Email: francesca.grosso@unicatt.it
- Phone: 3405594270
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.