Abstract

BackgroundNocturia (the symptom of needing to wake up to pass urine) is common in progressive Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients. Moderate-to-severe nocturia affects quality of life, can exacerbate fatigue and may affect capacity to carry out daily activities.Melatonin is a natural hormone regulating circadian cycles, released by the pineal gland at night-time, and secretion is impaired in MS. Melatonin levels can be supplemented by administration in tablet form at bedtime.The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of melatonin on mean number of nocturia episodes per night in MS patients. Secondary outcome measures will assess impact upon quality of life, urinated volumes, lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), cognition, sleep quality and sleep disturbance of partners.MethodsA randomized, double blind, placebo controlled, crossover trial consisting of two, six week treatment phases (active drug melatonin 2 mg or placebo), with a 1 month wash-out period in between.The primary outcome (change in nocturia episodes per night) in this two arm, two treatment, two period crossover design, will be objectively measured using frequency volume charts (FVC) at baseline and following both treatment phases. Questionnaires will be used to assess quality of life, sleep quality, safety and urinary tract symptoms. Qualitative interviews of participants and partners will explore issues including quality of life, mechanisms of sleep disturbance and impact of nocturia on partners.DiscussionThis study will evaluate whether melatonin reduces the frequency of nocturia episodes in MS patients, and therefore whether ‘Circadin’ has the potential to reduce LUTS and fatigue, and improve cognition and overall quality of life.Trial registration(EudraCT reference) 2012–00418321 registered: 25/01/13. ISRCTN Registry: ISRCTN38687869

Highlights

  • Nocturia is common in progressive Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients

  • We propose that exogenous administration of melatonin may counteract symptom severity in nocturia, with lower risk of adverse effects than current available agents

  • Return to baseline after washout between the two treatment phases will be assessed with the International Consultation on Incontinence-Nocturia (ICIQ-N) and Cambridge Multiple Sclerosis Basic Score (CaMBS)

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Summary

Introduction

Nocturia (the symptom of needing to wake up to pass urine) is common in progressive Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of melatonin on mean number of nocturia episodes per night in MS patients. Nocturia is the symptom of needing to wake up to pass urine. It is caused by increased bladder excitability, impaired salt/fluid handling and endocrine causes. Mild nocturia (1 episode per night) may be regarded as a “nuisance” symptom, of minor importance. If there are other reasons for sleep disturbance, as is common in multiple sclerosis (MS) [2], the additional episode of sleep disturbance from nocturia becomes more important for the person affected

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