A televised, web-based randomised trial of an herbal remedy (valerian) for insomnia.

ABSTRACT:

Background

This trial was conducted as part of a project that aims to enhance public understanding and use of research in decisions about healthcare by enabling viewers to participate in research and to follow the process, through television reports and on the web. Valerian is an herbal over-the-counter drug that is widely used for insomnia. Systematic reviews have found inconsistent and inconclusive results about its effects.

Methods

Participants were recruited through a weekly nationally televised health program in Norway. Enrolment and data collection were over the Internet. 405 participants who were 18 to 75 years old and had insomnia completed a two week diary-keeping run-in period without treatment and were randomised and mailed valerian or placebo tablets for two week

SUBMITTER: Oxman AD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2002515 | biostudies-literature | 2007 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature