An Ergot Alkaloid Preparation (Hydergine) in Geriatric Therapy

Clinical and electroencephalographic studies of an ergot alkaloid preparation (Hydergine) were made in nonpsychotic geriatric patients. In Study I (acute and subacute), 4 persons (average age, 68.5 years) were given 0.6 mg of Hydergine by injection daily for fifteen days. Apart from slight changes in affectivity and decreases in diastolic blood pressure, no significant effects were observed. In Study II (chronic), 22 pairs of patients (average age, 78.7 years) matched in sex, age and previous occupation received by mouth 4.5 mg of Hydergine or placebo daily for three months, according to a randomization schedule under double‐blind conditions. A series of psychological and psychopathological tests were conducted. Of 21 clinical and psychological variables, 13 showed a significant improvement with Hydergine, and 2 with placebo. Statistically significant improvements with Hydergine were noted for affectivity, psychomotor activity, and for global estimation of 18 items in a behavioural and psychological rating scale. The difference between the group with improved EEGs and the non‐improved group was significantly more favourable with Hydergine than with placebo (P < 0.001). The positive type of EEG changes and the geriatric EEG in general are discussed.