Except it's a vulnerability to SWATings. Also the cost acquisition and maintenance is non-negligible.

More like it's a sugary pill that gives you diarrhea that also does nothing useful.

One difference is that sugar pills can actually be very effective.

and don't cost $$$ (unless that's important for the placebo effect!)

A doctor giving someone a sugar pill and telling them it’s an active ingredient is definitely illegal. Placebos are used in medical studies where the patients know that they might be receiving a placebo.