Prof. Dan, I have to admit I buy OTC generic equivalents all the time but I do not expect them to work less effectively because, chemically, they are the same thing as the brand-name drug. Many of the costs attached to brand-name drugs are associated with advertising and not with quality per se.
1. Are they more susceptible to the placebo effect anyway?
2. Perhaps a pharmacologist with a good understanding would be less susceptible, than, say, a poet, who might somehow expect there to be at least some sublte difference?
3. Perhaps the feeling of somehow "beating the system" might itself contribute to your feeling better?
#2 - nope, I have never taken classes in pharmacology but I have taken organic chemistry #3 - Pure speculation on your part and quite incorrect. I can attest that there is no real difference between brand-name Benadryl and say, 'Target' brand, which is basically the chemical equivalent of benadryl but at about 40% of the price. They are both chemically the same thing and work effectively to treat seasonal allergies.
@paulpembroke You just saying that you are not susceptible to placebo affect.
Also Siegmund Froid said that Psychiatrist should charge full fee for mental treatment, i guessed he knew on some level that paying a full price will beneficial to a mental patient.
Prof. Dan, I have to admit I buy OTC generic equivalents all the time but I do not expect them to work less effectively because, chemically, they are the same thing as the brand-name drug. Many of the costs attached to brand-name drugs are associated with advertising and not with quality per se.
paulpembroke 3 years ago
I'm sure it depends on the individual:
1. Are they more susceptible to the placebo effect anyway?
2. Perhaps a pharmacologist with a good understanding would be less susceptible, than, say, a poet, who might somehow expect there to be at least some sublte difference?
3. Perhaps the feeling of somehow "beating the system" might itself contribute to your feeling better?
richardcadbury 2 years ago
#2 - nope, I have never taken classes in pharmacology but I have taken organic chemistry #3 - Pure speculation on your part and quite incorrect. I can attest that there is no real difference between brand-name Benadryl and say, 'Target' brand, which is basically the chemical equivalent of benadryl but at about 40% of the price. They are both chemically the same thing and work effectively to treat seasonal allergies.
paulpembroke 2 years ago
I seem to have been unclear.
I really meant the three points as potentially applying to anybody. But I see now that I have kinda proposed them as if asking you specifically.
And certainly, they are highly speculative...
richardcadbury 2 years ago
@paulpembroke You just saying that you are not susceptible to placebo affect.
Also Siegmund Froid said that Psychiatrist should charge full fee for mental treatment, i guessed he knew on some level that paying a full price will beneficial to a mental patient.
Mishkafofer 1 year ago