In a nutshell
This study investigated the effectiveness and safety of prolonged-release melatonin (PRM; Circadin) in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) and poor sleep quality. Researchers suggested that PRM is a good and safe option do treat these patients.
Some background
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic disorder that affects 60,000 Americans every year. It affects brain cells which lose their abilities to control body functions. This results in symptoms such as tremors, mental problems, and sleep disorders. Sleep disorders have been reported in 88 to 98% of patients with PD. These disorders can be fragmented sleep, difficulties in beginning sleep, daytime sleepiness, among others. They affect the quality of life of patients with PD.
The effectiveness of medication in the treatment of this disorder is limited. Moreover, it can cause side effects such as drowsiness and memory loss. Prior studies suggested that decreased melatonin is associated with abnormal sleep-wake cycles. Melatonin is a hormone naturally occurring involved in sleep. Melatonin can also be given as a drug. These studies showed that immediate-release melatonin improved sleep quality in patients with PD. PRM consists of a pharmaceutical product that delays the delivery of melatonin into the body. This maintains the melatonin concentration steady on the bloodstream, resulting in less variation. However, the effectiveness of PRM in patients with PD and sleep disorders is not well known.
Methods & findings
This study included information about 34 patients with PD and poor sleep quality. Patients were assigned to receive PRM (16) or placebo (18). Sleep quality, PD symptoms and quality of life were evaluated.
Sleep quality was significantly improved in the PRM group. No improvements were seen in the placebo group. Improvements in non-physical PD symptoms and quality of life were also seen in this group.
No side effects due to PRM were reported.
The bottom line
This study concluded that PRM is a good and safe option to treat patients with PD and poor sleep quality.
The fine print
This study had a very small number of participants. This study was funded by Kuhnil Pharmaceutical Company, the manufacturer of PRM.
Published By :
Parkinsonism & related disorders
Date :
May 24, 2020
