Cyclandelate in the treatment of senile mental changes: a double-blind evaluation.

The treatment of cerebrovascular insufficiency and its many symptoms in the ever-increasing numbers of the aged, is of major concern to physicians engaged in such care. Despite past skepticism as to the degree of efficacy of cerebral vasodilators, there is renewed interest in this form of therapy. Our investigation was designed to assess the effectiveness of cyclandelate, under strict double-blind conditions, in 58 geriatric patients. The cyclandelate and placebo groups (32 and 26 patients respectively) received either 1,600 mg/day of cyclandelate in fractional doses, or identical-appearing placebo capsules--over a period of 12 weeks. During the initial examination and every four weeks thereafter, patients were assessed for possible changes in vital signs and for evidence of adverse reactions. In addition, the Sandoz Clinical Assessment-Geriatric (SCAG) and the Nurses Observation Scale for Inpatient Evaluation (NOSIE) were completed, with particular attention to symptom clusters. A final global assessment was made in which the physician rated patients according to their overall clinical condition. The results of our study and analysis indicate that cyclandelate is a safe and effective agent for treating certain symptoms of senility in properly selected patients, provided the therapy is carried on for at least eight weeks and, if indicated, for a longer period. Clinical evidence suggests that the prudent use of this drug may definitely delay deterioration.