The effects of clobazam on critical flicker fusion threshold and symptomatology during the menstrual cycle

Abstract

The effects of clobazam on critical flicker fusion threshold (CFFT) and menstrual cycle-related symptomatology were examined in a double-blind placebo-controlled study of 11 normally cycling women. Clobazam 10 mg or placebo was administered in two doses, the evening before and the morning of testing at four points in the menstrual cycle (days 7, 14, 21 and 26). Subjects were tested on CFFT and completed the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ) and the Premenstrual Mood Index (PMI). Results showed that clobazam did not disrupt the menstrual cycle rhythm in CFFT, which accords with the non-sedative nature of this drug. The lack of effect of clobazam on subjective indices, Impaired Concentration and Behaviour Change of the MDQ confirms the lack of sedative effects. A general tendency, however, was observed for clobazam to reduce symptom reports on some other MDQ PMI scales in the first half of the cycle and to produce a subsequent exacerbation of symptoms in the second half of the cycle.