[The effect of Ginkgo biloba extract on neurophysiological and psychometric measurement results in patients with psychotic organic brain syndrome. A double-blind study against placebo]

Abstract

The range of typical symptoms of cerebro-organic syndrome such as dizziness, memory and concentration loss, and orientation disorders can either be measured objectively within a clinical trial or can be observed subjectively. Thirty-six patients with classical symptoms of organic syndrome were recruited into a placebo-controlled double-blind trial in which the therapeutic effect of Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761 (rökan) was measured by the following objective criteria: quantified EEG, saccadic eye movements and psychometric tests (Wiener Determination Test, Number Connection Test). Following 2 weeks' wash-out, 40 mg. EGb 761 was administered 3 times daily (= 120 mg daily dose) for 8 weeks. The control group received placebo capsules of identical external appearance. The tests listed above were carried out prior to treatment and after 4 and 8 weeks' therapy with the exception of quantitative EEG which was recorded at the beginning and end of treatment only. Patients presenting with pathological findings for at least two of the four test criteria were admitted to the trial. Patients receiving unpermitted supplementary medication or suffering from acute cardiovascular disturbances or digestive and metabolic disorders were excluded from the trial. A highly significant difference could already been seen after 4 weeks of therapy and also after 8 weeks in the results of both the saccadic test and the psychometric tests compared to the placebo control group. Saccade duration was shortened and the latency reduced. In parallel, the number of correct answers given in the Wiener Determination Test and Number Connection Test increased significantly compared to the control group. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)