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Table 8.24 Effects of Propranolol on Agitation and Aggression Post ABI

Author

Year

Country

Research Design

PEDro

Sample Size

Methods Outcome

Brooke et al.

(1992)

USA

RCT

PEDro=7

N=21

Population: TBI; Severity of Injury: GCS <8.

Intervention: Patients were randomized to receive either propranolol (n=11; 60 mg/day, max 420mg) or placebo (n=10).

Outcome Measure: Overt Aggression Scale.

1.         No significant differences between the two treatments in terms of agitation episodes per wk.

2.         More intense episodes of agitation with placebo than propranolol (p<0.05).

3.         More participants were placed in restraints with placebo than propranolol (p<0.05).

4.         No differences between the two treatments in the proportion receiving sedating drugs or drugs for agitation.

Greendyke et al.

(1986)

USA

RCT

PEDro=7

N=10

Population: Mean Age=52yr; Gender: Male=9, Female=0; Mean Time Post Injury=7.8yr.

Intervention: Patients were randomized to receive either propranolol (520 mg/day) or placebo for 11wk. Groups were then crossed over and received the alternate treatment for 11wk.

Outcome Measure: Assaultive behaviour, Supplemental medication, Nurses Observation Scale for Inpatient Evaluation.

1.         Significantly fewer assaults and attempted assaults occurred during propranolol treatment when compared to placebo (p<0.05).

2.         No significant changes in irritability, social interests, or psychomotor retardation were noted.

3.         No abnormalities were noted on laboratory measures.

PEDro=Physiotherapy Evidence Database rating scale (Moseley et al., 2002).