Effects of Neurexan on Stress-Induced Changes of Spectral EEG Power: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Exploratory Trial in Human Volunteers

Abstract

Neurexan is a multicomponent natural medicinal product used for stress-related symptoms such as nervous restlessness and insomnia. The present study investigated the efficacy of Neurexan on stress-induced changes of brainwave frequencies using quantitative analysis of spectral EEG power. Thirty healthy male and female volunteers were tested in a randomized, placebo controlled cross-over trial under conditions of relaxation and experimental stress-in- duction. Recording of the EEG was performed over four hours after drug administration. Data was analyzed using the proprietary fast dynamic EEG technology Neurocode-Tracking. Quantitative EEG revealed a task dependent increase of beta2 power as a surrogate parameter of stress induced anxiety. The elevated frontotemporal beta2 power was ameliorated by intake of Neurexan during the second and third hour after administration. This indicates that Neurexan is effectively helping subjects to better cope with task-related stress situations.