The placebo effect may explain success of some supplements

DEAR DR. ROACH >> Are there any recognized benefits from taking either saw palmetto or glucosamine/ chondroitin, both of which I have been taking — and paying for — for years. DEAR READER >> Saw palmetto has been used widely to treat prostate symptoms in men, but the data supporting its use are conflicting.

A 2012 review of 32 randomized trials found no benefit in saw palmetto over placebo in urinary symptom scores, prostate size or urinary flow rates.

Glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin often are used together for the treatment of osteoarthritis. The data also are conflicting in the case of osteoarthritis.

Some studies show greater improvement in symptoms for those taking glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin than in those taking a placebo, while others show equivalent results for both groups.

However, in a large trial, 60 percent of participants experienced at least a 20 percent pain reduction whether they took placebo, glucosamine, chondroitin or both, which just shows how powerful the placebo effect can be.

Since the adverse reactions to glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin are negligible, it is certainly reasonable to give it a try.

If it helps reduce pain, it doesn’t really matter whether it’s a “real” effect or placebo.

The important thing is that it helps.

Saw palmetto has rates of adverse reactions that are similar to placebo, so if it seems to help, and most importantly, if the improvement is worth the cost, you can continue.

Contact Dr. Roach at ToYourGoodHealth@med. cornell.edu.