Hypnotic Intake and Motor and Cognitive Performances at High Altitude

The Effect of Acute Hypnotic Intake Before a Night at High Altitude on Cognitive and Motor Performances

This study aims to determine the effect of acute hypnotic intake (Zolpidem) on sleep, cognitive and motor performances and on acute mountain sickness symptoms at high altitude. Healthy subjects will be evaluated on 4 occasions (twice at sea level and twice at high altitude), after hypnotic or placebo intake. Following an early wake-up (01:00), symptoms, cognitive and motor performances will be assessed to determine potential residual effects of Zolpidem within such conditions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• No sojourn above 2500 m during the past 2 months
• Coffee intake < 3 cups per day
• Non-smoker

Exclusion Criteria:

• Respiratory, cardiovascular, metabolic or neuromuscular diseases
• Psychiatric disorders
• Use of hypnotics within the past year
• Dependence syndrome (alcool, drugs, etc)
• Severe insomnia or somnolence