Efficacy of single dose antihistamine vs. single dose valerian-hops in subjective sleep measures among war refugees: a comparison trial

Omar Salem Gammoh,Mohammad Al-Shawagfeh,Hrayr Attarian,Waleed Al-Katib,Ahmed Al-Smadi,Tareq Mukattash

doi:10.1590/0101-60830000000114

Abstract

Abstract Background Many sedatives and anxiolytics are used in single dose or chronically to aid sleep. Clinically important sedatives include valerian-hops and antihistamines as they are used over the counter and are highly accessible and safe agents. Objectives To evaluate and compare a single dose of chlorpheniramine versus valerian-hops combination in modulating subjective sleep measures in insomniac war refugees. Methods Insomnia among refugees was screened using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). Insomniac subjects were randomized to received a single dose valerian-hops (320/80 mg) (n = 65), or chlorpheneramine (4 mg) (n = 50) or placebo (n = 76) two hours prior sleeping. Participants were instructed to complete Leeds Sleep Evaluation Questionnaire (LSEQ), visual analogue scales of anxiety and sedation. Also sleep latency, total hours slept and self-rated improvement were obtained. Results Almost 75% of screened refugees had insomnia. Chlorpheneramine reduced sleep latency and anxiety significantly, however it resulted in poor sleep quality. Valerian-hops group showed marked anxiolysis one hour after dosing, a sleep quality similar to placebo and better than chlorpheneramine, and better alertness compared to placebo. Participants satisfaction was higher with chlorpheneramine and there was no difference in the total hours slept. Discussion Valerian-hops combination may provide better sleep quality than antihistamines.

Highlights

Insomnia is a primary sleep disorder whereby patients have difficulties falling asleep, with maintaining sleep during the night, or with early wakening[1].It is estimated that more than 30% of the populations of industrialized countries report sleep disturbances[2,3]
Valerian-hops group showed marked anxiolysis one hour after dosing, a sleep quality similar to placebo and better than chlorpheneramine, and better alertness compared to placebo
Participants satisfaction was higher with chlorpheneramine and there was no difference in the total hours slept

Summary

Introduction

Insomnia is a primary sleep disorder whereby patients have difficulties falling asleep, with maintaining sleep during the night, or with early wakening[1].It is estimated that more than 30% of the populations of industrialized countries report sleep disturbances[2,3]. Insomnia prevalence and treatment is seldom studied in refugee populations. Two recent studies reported insomnia prevalence of 38% and 44% among displaced people[6,8]. Objectives: To evaluate and compare a single dose of chlorpheniramine versus valerian-hops combination in modulating subjective sleep measures in insomniac war refugees. Insomniac subjects were randomized to received a single dose valerian-hops (320/80 mg) (n = 65), or chlorpheneramine (4 mg) (n = 50) or placebo (n = 76) two hours prior sleeping. Results: Almost 75% of screened refugees had insomnia. Chlorpheneramine reduced sleep latency and anxiety significantly, it resulted in poor sleep quality. Valerian-hops group showed marked anxiolysis one hour after dosing, a sleep quality similar to placebo and better than chlorpheneramine, and better alertness compared to placebo. Discussion: Valerian-hops combination may provide better sleep quality than antihistamines

Objectives

Methods

Conclusion