An Ergot Alkaloid Preparation (Hydergine) Versus Placebo for Treatment of Symptoms of Cerebrovascular Insufficiency: Double‐Blind Study

Fifty geriatric patients with symptoms of cerebrovascular insufficiency took part in a double‐blind study; 24 were treated with Hydergine, an ergot alkaloid preparation, in a dosage of two 0.5‐mg tablets three times daily for twelve weeks; and 26 were treated with placebo. Compared to the placebo group, the Hydergine group improved significantly with respect to cognitive and intellectual capacity, attitude and mood, and physical complaints. Improvement was manifested particularly by relief of such symptoms as confusion, depression, uncooperativeness, fatigue, anorexia, and dizziness. The Hydergine patients also became mentally more alert and had greater initiative.