Electroencephalographic and Behavioral Changes Associated with Papaverine Administration in Healthy Geriatric Subjects

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Abstract
A double-blind cross-over procedure was used to evaluate the effects of papaverine hydrochloride on the electroencephalogram (EEG), cognition, mood and psychologic test performance of 10 healthy geriatric volunteers. During the two-week period, each subject was tested four times: before and after receiving papaverine and before and after receiving placebo. Period analysis revealed that a 300-mg dose of papaverine (Pavabid Plateau Caps) increased EEG alpha activity (8-13 cycles per second) and decreased the beta2 range (27-40 cps). Baseline values for six mood factors, short-term memory, complex problem solving, and attention were not altered significantly by either drug or placebo. Results of the Subject Paced Digit Symbol Substitution Test indicated that papaverine may produce some improvement in simple cognitive functioning. No adverse effects were associated with the use of papaverine.