EGB-761 IN CONTROL OF ACUTE MOUNTAIN-SICKNESS AND VASCULAR REACTIVITYTO COLD-EXPOSURE

Method: We recruited 44 subjects to participate in a study of the prev entive effect of Ginko biloba extract (EGb 761) on acute mountain sick ness (AMS) and vasomotor changes of the extremities during a Himalayan expedition. After giving their written informed consent, the subjects were randomized to two groups. One group received 160 mg of EGb 761 p er day in two divided doses and the other group received placebo. Asse ssment was based on the course of the Environmental Symptom Questionna ire (ESQ) score and the cold gradient measured by photoplethysmography . Results: The prophylactic efficacy of treatment with EGb 761 was cle arly demonstrated in this study. In terms of factor 1 (AMS-Cerebral), no subject in the EGb 761 group developed acute mountain sickness vers us 40.9% of subjects in the placebo group; this difference was very si gnificant (p less than or equal to 1.4 x 10(-3)). In terms of factor 2 (AMS-Respiratory), 3 subjects (13.6%) in the EGb 761 group developed acute mountain sickness versus 18 (81.8%) in the placebo group; this d ifference was very significant (p = 1.2 x 10(-5)). Conclusion: Due to its multiple pharmacological actions, EGb 761 provides an interesting response to the prevention of mountain sickness for moderate altitude (5400 m) with gradual exposure. It also decreased vasomotor disorders of the extremities, as demonstrated by plethysmography (p < 10(-8)) an d a specific questionnaire (p < 10(-9)).