Silexan, an orally administered Lavandula oil preparation, is effective in the treatment of subsyndromal anxiety disorder: a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial

Kasper S

Published in International Clinical Psychopharmacology

Methodology

Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of Silexan 80 mg daily for 10 weeks in subsyndromal anxiety disorder, with the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale as primary endpoint plus sleep, wellbeing and tolerability measures.

Key Findings

In 221 adults with subsyndromal anxiety disorder, Silexan (80 mg/day oral lavender oil preparation) for 10 weeks reduced Hamilton Anxiety scores significantly more than placebo, improved sleep quality and general wellbeing, and was well tolerated with no sedation or dependence and only mild eructation as a side effect.

Conclusions

Silexan, a standardised oral lavender oil, produced clinically relevant anxiolytic effects in subsyndromal anxiety without the sedation or dependency risk of benzodiazepines.

Limitations

Ten-week duration with no long-term or withdrawal data, subsyndromal rather than diagnosed generalised anxiety disorder, distinctive lavender taste/eructation may unblind participants, and the manufacturer funded and helped conduct the trial.