Examining how attention affects the placebo effect
Effects of Attention and Placebo Modulation on Cycling Performance: an Experimental Study on Stationary Bikes
This study is testing how focusing your attention during exercise can change the effects of a placebo drink on healthy people.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 128 (estimated) |
| Ages | 19 Years to 99 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Catholic University of the Sacred Heart Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Milan, Milano) |
| Trial ID | NCT06827444 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy adults aged 18 and older who can provide a medical certificate confirming their good health.
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.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Milan, Milano
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore — Milan, Milano, Italy (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Francesca NA Grosso, MD
- Email: francesca.grosso@unicatt.it
- Phone: 3405594270
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.