1.
[Cerebrolysin in the treatment of brain injuries of moderate severity].
Talypov, AE, Myachin, MY, Kuksova, NS, Kordonsky, AY
Zhurnal nevrologii i psikhiatrii imeni S.S. Korsakova. 2014;(11):98-106
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the efficacy of cerebrolysin in patients with cranial/brain injury of moderate severity. MATERIAL AND METHODS The main group included 30 patients treated with cerebrolysin from the first day of disease, the comparison group included 32 patients matched for age, sex and disease severity. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION Cerebrolysin promoted the early and complete reduction of common symptoms of brain injury as well as autonomic and asthenic disorders, restoration of cognitive functions, normalization of emotional condition, improvement of spontaneous bioelectrical activity. The drug was well-tolerated.
2.
Effect of methylphenidate on vital signs and adverse effects in adults with traumatic brain injury.
Alban, JP, Hopson, MM, Ly, V, Whyte, J
American journal of physical medicine & rehabilitation. 2004;(2):131-7; quiz 138-41, 167
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study methylphenidate's adverse effects and impact on vital signs within the adult traumatic brain injury population. DESIGN Thirty-five adults with traumatic brain injury enrolled in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, 6-wk crossover study of methylphenidate, given in a dose of 0.3 mg/kg/dose, twice a day. Vital signs were taken by trained clinicians and research assistants. Participants filled out weekly questionnaires pertaining to the adverse effects. RESULTS Poor appetite was the only adverse effect related to methylphenidate. Other adverse effects commonly associated with methylphenidate, such as insomnia, rapid heart rate, and anxiety, were not found to be significantly related to the medication. The average rise in mean arterial pressure on methylphenidate was 2.5 mm. Methylphenidate showed a stronger impact on pulse, with an average increase of 7 beats/min. Baseline vital signs did not predict the degree of increase on methylphenidate. CONCLUSION Methylphenidate appears to be safe for the adult population with traumatic brain injury. However, because a few individuals experienced significant changes in vital signs and adverse effects, all patients should be monitored.