The Effect of Donepezil on Arousal Threshold and Apnea-Hypopnea Index. A Randomized, Double-Blind, Cross-Over Study.

ABSTRACT:

Rationale

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has multiple pathophysiological causes. A low respiratory arousal threshold (ArTh) and a high loop gain (unstable ventilatory control) can contribute to recurrent respiratory events in patients with OSA. Prior studies have shown that donepezil, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, might improve OSA, but the mechanism is unknown.

Objectives

To determine whether a single dose of donepezil lowers the apnea-hypopnea index by modulating the ArTh or loop gain.

Methods

In this randomized, double-blind, crossover trial, 41 subjects with OSA underwent two polysomnograms with ArTh and loop gain evaluated, during which 10 mg of donepezil or placebo was administered.

Measurements and main results

Compared with placebo, sleep efficiency

SUBMITTER: Li Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5122481 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature