A. Lequerica, Neil N. Jasey, Jaclyn N. Portelli Tremont
Oct 1, 2015
Citations
1
Influential Citations
37
Citations
Quality indicators
Journal
Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of ramelteon on sleep and daytime functioning among individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI). DESIGN A double-blind, placebo-controlled study with a crossover design. SETTING A research facility attached to an acute rehabilitation hospital. PARTICIPANTS Individuals with TBI (N=13) complaining of sleep difficulties with a Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score >5. INTERVENTIONS A nightly dosage of ramelteon (8 mg) was given over a period of 3 weeks. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES An actigraph and a daily sleep log were used to measure sleep/wake patterns. Daytime functioning was measured after 3 weeks of treatment using a computer-administrated neuropsychological test battery in conjunction with subjective questionnaires measuring mood, daytime sleepiness, and fatigue. RESULTS A significant increase in objectively measured total sleep time and a small increase in sleep latency were observed after 3 weeks of treatment compared with placebo. Treatment also showed a significant increase in standardized neuropsychological test scores, with a particular improvement on an index of executive functioning. CONCLUSIONS Preliminary evidence for the effectiveness of 8 mg of ramelteon taken nightly over a 3-week period was found in the treatment of sleep difficulties among individuals with TBI. Improvements in total sleep time and some aspects of cognitive functioning are discussed.