Stress protective effects during steady-state conditions of bromazepam

In 10 young, healthy male volunteers the stress-protective efficacy of bromazepam (orally 3 mg bid) was investigated double-blind (vs placebo) during steady state. Physical and mental stress was induced by ergometer (125 Watt for 5 minutes) and delayed auditory feedback, respectively. Stress response was measured biochemically (plasma concentrations of epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine), physiologically by monitoring heart rate and blood pressure and subjectively (by visual analogue scales). Both stress-tests were associated with a significant increase in plasma levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine. Whereas the applied dose of bromazepam did not impair performance of the subjects, it demonstrated some protective effects in terms of a diminished elevation of the cardiovascular parameters, especially a reduced increase of the plasma levels of epinephrine (p less than 0.05) and norepinephrine (p less than 0.10). In conclusion, it can be assumed that endocrine and cardiovascular response to physical and mental stress can be attenuated by steady-state bromazepam.