BackgroundThere are no approved therapies for cough in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). In this small crossover trial we administered nalbuphine extended-release tablets (NAL ER) as a potential therapy such patients.MethodsThis randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, involved two 22-day treatment periods ER→placebo and placebo→NAL separated by 2-week washout period. NAL ...

A simulated intervention (often a drug but potentially other interventions) used as a control/comparison in research studies. As suggested in the title of a book on the subject (Shapiro & Shapiro, 2000), the effects of such treatment can be powerful (what is termed to placebo response or effect). In drug studies, for example, the use of a placebo (inert agent that is packaged so as to be indist...