Anavex Life Sciences Corp (AVXL)

[lt2211]

New study shows strong placebo effect in CNS diseases.

A new study, involving persons with Parkinson's disease, tended to show the effects of placebo were more powerful than previously thought. Twelve people, with Parkinson's, were told that they would be taking one of two drugs. One expensive or one cheaper. Half the group would take the expensive drug and the other half the cheaper drug. The participants were told which drug they were taking, expensive or cheaper. In reality all participants were given a placebo (saline solution) A marked improvement in motor skills, up to 28% reduced shaking etc. occurred in some participants. Although a small study it may be significant. Were the improvements noted in patients in the AVXL Alzheimer's study simply placebo induced? Several people had reported improvements including the person form Australia, all getting publicity, pushing the stock up. At the time most felt the improvements were too great to be caused by placebo. That may not be the case.

http://www.reuters.com/article/us-science-placebo-idUSKBN0L12J920150128