I have several patients who have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and I frequently give them acidophilus supplements, which have been shown to help some patients with gastrointestinal problems, although their use in IBS has not specifically been supported or denied. More than one of these patients has come back saying that I was a terrific doctor because they experienced considerable relief from the supplements. Frankly, I think the supplements are not much better than a placebo, Similarly, I will tell patients to use over-the-counter vitamin supplements. When my patients ask if I believe that acidophilus or vitamins work, I reply, "They work in some people; you've got to allow a few days to see if they'll work for you." I know that placebo can be a powerful remedy, and I do not think I am doing any harm. Are these supplements placebos? Do patients always have to be told that something they are using is a placebo? If so, how? Or, if not always, where do we draw the line?
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