A biomedical research technician from Lisbon, Catarina Craveiro suffered from a chronic lower back pain due to scoliosis since childhood. The Washington Post reports that it was due to her condition that significantly limited her physical activities, it also forced her to rely on ibuprofen for pain relief. Not until in 2013, when she joined a clinical trial hoping for a breakthrough drug, did she find a life saving medicine. Surprisingly enough, it was no medicine, but a placebo.

She was initially skeptical, but she still decided to be part of the trial. Her reason was simple, it can't make the situation worse. A decade later, at 33, Craveiro is not just free from any pain, but has become a competitive kickboxer, a coach, and mother of two. For all these changes, she has credited her experiences that believed that it was she and her mind that played an important role in her recovery.

What Is the Placebo Effect?

It happens when a person experiences real improvements on their health after taking a treatment that has no active medicinal properties. This phenomenon had been widely studied and is now been recognized as a legitimate scientific concept. Researchers also believe that placebo effect works by activating specific areas of the brain that regulate pain, mood, and overall well-being.

Traditionally too, placebo were in use. In many trials previously, participants were unaware that they were taking an inactive substance. However, emerging research suggests that placebo effect can still work even when patients are aware that they are taking a placebo. This is known as "open label" use

So, How Does Placebo Work?

While some think that it is only a psychological trick, it is not just limited to that. It also has biological basis. Studies from brain images show that placebos can stimulate the brain to release neurotransmitters such as endorphins, which help relieve pain and enhance mood. Experts also believe that brain's expectation of relief can trigger real physiological responses and contribute to symptom improvement.

Researchers were also able to find that placebos can be effective for conditions which are influenced by bran function, such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and fatigue. However, they do not work for ailments like tumors or high cholesterol, where biological mechanisms unrelated to brain activity play a primary role.

Due to its use is clinical settings with deception, a lot of ethical concerns also rose every once in a while. However, researchers now advocate for the use of open-label placebo, where patients are fully informed about the treatment and that it does not contain any active ingredients. As per experts and studies, it does not diminish the effect. Patients who knowingly take placebos still report the same improvement that they would had they were not told. Experts believe this happens due to a strong doctor-patient relationship, which enhances the effect.

What Does The Future Look Like?

Medical researchers are exploring different ways to integrate placebos in conventional treatments now. One such approach is "dose-extending placebos". This is where the patient continues its prescribed medication while gradually incorporating placebos. This could reduce the dependency on strong medications, including opioids, minimizing side effects and addiction risks.

Netflix and adult film star Kylie Page's sudden death just at the age of 28 has come has a shock for the entertainment industry and her family. She was found dead at her apartment on June 25 after a friend called the cops when the friend was unable to reach her.

By the time the fire department arrived at her Hollywood residence, she had already been pronounced dead.

Kylie Page Death Reason

According to US Weekly's report the evidence suspect a drug overdose case as the police confirmed for finding fentanyl and drug paraphernalia. According to publicly available records from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, her cause of death is currently listed as “deferred,” indicating further investigation is underway, possibly involving suspected foul play. Her death was confirmed by the Canadian adult entertainment company she worked for.

Also Read: Kate Middleton Opens Up About Her 'Really Difficult' Time During Chemotherapy And How Nature Helped Her Heal

"The Brazzers team is deeply saddened to learn of Kylie Page’s passing,” the company said in a statement on X. “Kylie will be remembered for her laughter, kindness, and bringing light wherever she went. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Kylie’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.”

Fentanyl & Paraphernalia overdose: How These Drugs Impact Your Body?

Page's death has again reminded people of drug use and abuse in the entertainment industry cases like Matthew Perry's death and Liam Payne's death.

In case of Page, fentanyl and drug paraphernalia was found in her home.

As per the Edge Treatment Center that is licensed by the California State Department of Health Care Services, and US federal law, drug paraphernalia is any device, item, or component of any type which is mainly meant or crafted for the purpose of production, compounding, transforming, obscuring, generating, processing, prepping, injecting, inhaling, consuming, or otherwise including a banned drug into our bodies.

Common Drugs Linked with Paraphernalia

• Marijuana/cannabis
• Cocaine
• Heroin and other opioids
• Methamphetamines
• Ecstasy
• Inhalants

What Is Fentanyl and Why Is It So Dangerous?

As per the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use as an analgesic (pain relief) and anesthetic. It is approximately 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin as an analgesic.

It is also known as Apace, China Girl, China Town, Dance Fever, and by other various names. It can be consumed through snorting, sniffing, smoking, or orally by pill or tablet. It could also be spiked onto blotter paper, patches or sold alone or in combination with heroin and other substances.

How Fentanyl Affects the Body and Mind

As per the National Institute on Drug Abuse, US, Fentanyl and other illegally produced synthetic opioids have played a major role in the overdose crisis in the United States since 2013.

Since about 2017, overdose deaths often involve use of multiple drugs. In many cases, fentanyl is one of these drugs. When fentanyl is mixed with other drugs, either on purpose or unknowingly, the combination can have more serious health effects.

Like other opioid pain relievers, fentanyl can cause a range of effects including relaxation, euphoria, pain relief, sedation, confusion, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, urinary retention, constricted pupils, and slowed breathing.

In cases of overdose, symptoms may include stupor, altered pupil size, cold and clammy skin, bluish discoloration (cyanosis), coma, and respiratory failure, which can be fatal. A combination of coma, pinpoint pupils, and respiratory depression is a strong indicator of opioid intoxication.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a significant update to the labeling of all extended-release medications used to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The change specifically targets the use of these drugs in children younger than six, warning about the risk of weight loss and other adverse reactions.

What Is ADHD?

ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that typically begins in childhood. It is characterized by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can interfere with a child's development and daily functioning. Treatment usually involves a combination of behavioral therapy and medication, including stimulants like amphetamines and methylphenidate.

Labeling Change Reflects Off-Label Prescribing Trend

Although extended-release stimulants are not approved for use in children under six, the FDA notes that healthcare professionals sometimes prescribe them “off-label” to younger patients. This is typically done in cases where other treatments have failed or when symptoms are especially severe. However, the FDA warns that clinical trials have shown young children process these drugs differently from older children, often resulting in higher concentrations of the medication in the body.

These higher drug levels have been associated with an increased likelihood of side effects, including clinically significant weight loss. As a result, the FDA is requiring drug manufacturers to include a new “Limitation of Use” section in the prescribing information for all extended-release stimulant medications.

This section will outline the risks specific to children under six, including:

• Higher plasma concentrations of the drug
• Greater rates of side effects, including reduced appetite and weight loss
• The fact that extended-release formulations are not approved for this age group

Monitoring and Alternative Options Recommended

For young children already taking extended-release ADHD stimulants, the FDA advises healthcare providers to closely monitor the patient’s growth and development. Pediatricians should regularly chart weight and height to detect early signs of weight loss. If weight loss becomes a concern, alternative treatments should be considered.

These may include:

• Switching to immediate-release stimulants, which may be easier to manage in younger children
• Exploring non-medication interventions, such as behavioral therapies and parent training programs
• Reevaluating the overall treatment plan to ensure it aligns with the child’s developmental needs and physical health

What Should Parents and Caregivers Do?

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to stay alert for signs of weight loss in children taking extended-release stimulants. If any concerning changes in appetite or weight are noticed, it’s essential to consult the child’s pediatrician. The doctor can then weigh the benefits and potential harms of continuing the current medication and discuss safer alternatives if needed.

The FDA's move comes as part of its ongoing effort to improve pediatric medication safety and ensure that drug use in children is backed by evidence, especially when used outside of official guidelines.

Kate Middleton or Catherine, Princess of Wales reflected on the aftermath of chemotherapy in her first public appearance since she had unexpectedly withdrawn from Royal Ascot just two weeks ago.

She has called the entire experience "really difficult". On her visit to a wellbeing garden at Colchester Hospital in Essex, England on Wednesday, she told the patients, "You put on a sort of brave face, stoicism through treatment, treatment’s done – then it’s like ‘I can crack on, get back to normal.’ But actually the phase afterwards is really difficult, you’re not necessarily under the clinical team any longer, but you’re not able to function normally at home as you perhaps once used to."

The reason she visited the hospital garden in the Southeast of England was to "celebrate the incredible healing power of nature", noted Kensington Palace.

She also met with patients and hospital staff at the Cancer Wellbeing Centre "to understand how gardens in healthcare setting play a crucial role in promoting good health outcomes, preventing poor health and supporting increased recovery time."

Now 43, Kate herself has pointed out to the importance of nature in her health journey over the last year.

Is There Any Scientific Proof That Nature Could Actually Heal You?

Lisa A Cooper, MD, MPH writes in the 'Letter from the Director' at John Hopkins Medicine that nature does have healing power. She notes that green spaces play a role in cardiovascular health, and also facilitates to interact with other people who are there to enjoy nature. The American Psychological Association (APA) also noted that spending time in nature is linked to both cognitive benefits and improvements in mood, mental health and emotional well-being. The University of Cincinnati also points out that being out in nature can further reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, enhance immune system function, and boost self esteem and mood.

In fact in a video, which was posted by Kate on X to mark Mental Health Awareness Week in May, she said, "over the past year, nature has been my sanctuary."

Kate's Cancer Timeline

In March, Princess Kate publicly shared her cancer diagnosis and confirmed she had begun chemotherapy. As she focused on her recovery, she stepped away from the public eye, making only a few limited appearances over the summer. By September, she announced she had completed chemotherapy and was "doing what I can to stay cancer-free."

Since then, the Princess of Wales has been gradually re-engaging with her royal responsibilities. While she has increased her public appearances this year, palace insiders say she is carefully managing her return to balance her health with her official duties.

Earlier this summer, Kate made high-profile appearances at key royal events, including the Trooping the Colour parade in London and the Order of the Garter service in Windsor. However, she later withdrew from the Royal Ascot at the last minute, signaling that her return to full-time royal duties is still being handled with care.

Just last week, Kate resumed in-person engagements, joining Prince William in hosting philanthropist Melinda French Gates at Windsor Castle. The meeting, reportedly focused on their shared philanthropic interests, marked one of her first official engagements in recent weeks.

On Wednesday, the Princess made a meaningful visit to Colchester Hospital, where she helped plant several “Catherine’s Rose” plants—a specially bred rose named in her honor by the Royal Horticultural Society. The visit coincided with the hospital receiving a donation of 50 such plants.

The rose holds special significance: proceeds from its commercial sale will go to The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, supporting cancer patients through treatment and beyond. The funds will help the charity develop a dedicated program focused on improving quality of life for those living with cancer and those who have completed treatment.

Princess Kate has deepened her connection with the Royal Marsden since her diagnosis. In January, Kensington Palace announced she had been named joint patron of The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, the specialist cancer center in Chelsea, west London, where she received treatment.

Her involvement with the charity and efforts to raise awareness reflect her commitment to supporting others navigating a cancer diagnosis. While her return to public life is cautious and measured, each appearance signals both her resilience and her intention to use her platform for meaningful causes.

As she continues to recover and adjust, the Princess of Wales remains one of the most admired and closely followed members of the royal family—balancing personal healing with her public role.