Effects of piracetam on regional cerebral blood flow and mental functions in patients with organic dementia

Abstract

The effects of piracetam (Nootropil^®, UCB 6215) on mental functions and on regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) were investigated in eight patients in the presenile age who displayed symptoms of moderate dementia. The double-blind crossover design included nine measurement occasions, each involving rCBF measurement by the 133-Xe inhalation method, ratings of symptoms of dementia, personality changes, and side effects, and a psychometric investigation. Three investigations were included in each of three treatment periods. The first investigation in a period was made without medication. Then either placebo or piracetam 4.8 g/day or 9.6 g/day was given during four weeks with measurements after 2 weeks and 4 weeks. There were intervals of 4 weeks without medication between the treatment periods. Piracetam had no significant effect on either mental functions or rCBF.