Title:Scientific Papers and Patents on Substances with Unproven Effects. Part 2
VOLUME: 13 ISSUE: 3
Author(s):Sergei V. Jargin*
Affiliation:Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Clementovski per 6-82, Moscow 115184
Keywords:Placebo, hormesis, nutrition, phytoestrogens, soy, osteoarthritis, acetylcysteine.
Abstract:Several examples are discussed in this review, where substances without proven effects
were proposed for practical use within the scope of evidence-based medicines. The following is discussed
here: generalizations of the hormesis concept and its use in support of homeopathy; phytoestrogens
and soy products potentially having feminizing effects; glycosaminoglycans for the treatment of
osteoarthritis and possibilities of their replacement by diet modifications; flavonoids recommended for
the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins; acetylcysteine as a mucolytic agent
and its questionable efficiency especially by an oral intake; stem cells and cell therapies. In conclusion,
placebo therapies can be beneficial and ethically justifiable but it is not a sufficient reason to publish
biased information. Importantly, placebo must be devoid of adverse effects, otherwise, it is named
pseudo-placebo. Therapeutic methods with unproven effects should be tested in high-quality research
shielded from the funding bias. Some issues discussed in this review are not entirely clear, and the
arguments provided here can initiate a constructive discussion.