Suanzaorentang versus diazepam: a controlled double-blind study in anxiety

Area of Science:

• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Pharmacology
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Suanzaorentang is an ancient Chinese herbal remedy historically used for weakness, irritability, and insomnia.
• Preliminary observations suggested Suanzaorentang possesses anxiolytic properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the anxiolytic efficacy of Suanzaorentang through a controlled, comparative, double-blind clinical trial.
• To compare the anxiolytic effects of Suanzaorentang with diazepam.
• To assess the impact of Suanzaorentang on psychomotor performance and side effects.

Main Methods:

• A double-blind, randomized controlled trial comparing Suanzaorentang (250 mg t.i.d.) with diazepam (2 mg t.i.d.).
• Assessment of anxiolytic effects, psychomotor performance, and subjective side effects.
• Comprehensive laboratory tests including liver and renal function, electrolytes, lipid profiles, thyroid function, and routine blood, urine, and stool examinations.

Main Results:

• Suanzaorentang demonstrated anxiolytic effects comparable to diazepam.
• Suanzaorentang significantly improved daytime psychomotor performance, whereas diazepam did not.
• No significant subjective side effects were reported with Suanzaorentang treatment.
• All laboratory tests remained unaltered after one week of Suanzaorentang administration.

Conclusions:

• Suanzaorentang is a potentially effective anxiolytic agent with a favorable side effect profile.
• Suanzaorentang offers an advantage over diazepam by improving psychomotor function.
• Further research into Suanzaorentang for anxiety disorders is warranted.