THE EFFECTS OF A SHORT-ACTING BENZODIAZEPINE, TRIAZOLAM, ON AROUSALS, BODY MOVEMENTS, AND QUALITY OF SLEEP IN POSTMENOPAUSAL FEMALES.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of triazolam, a short-acting benzodiazepine, on nocturnal arousals, body movements, and quality of sleep in healthy, postmenopausal females. A double-blind control by constancy cross-over design was employed. Twelve subjects were randomly assigned to the sequence paradigm placebo, drug, placebo, drug or to the sequence paradigm drug, placebo, drug, placebo. Each subject slept for six nights in a sleep laboratory that was specifically designed to decrease the artificiality of the laboratory setting. EEG, EOG, and EMG measurements were recorded on a polysomnograph. Body movements were recorded on videotape and measured by radar and ultrasound instruments. Sleep quality was measured using both Likert and visual analogue scales. In examining arousal activity during sleep period time, the findings demonstrated a significant decrease in wakes after sleep onset (WASO), sleep stage one episodes, and sleep stage shifts when triazolam was compared to a placebo reference. There was no significant effect on K-complex activity associated with movement. In examining body movements during the sleep period time, the findings demonstrated a significant decrease in major body movements when triazolam was compared to a placebo reference. Minor body movements were increased, but not at significant levels. In examining the subject's perceived quality of sleep, their satisfaction with sleep was significantly increased on nights following triazolam administration when compared with nights following placebo administration.