Background: The aim of this open, pilot supplement registry study was to evaluate the protective, preventive effects of Robuvit® on professional-related fatigue symptoms and on aspects of cognitive functions, professional attitudes and decision-making in healthy nurses under professional stress and with increased oxidative stress.
Methods: In total, 40 subjects, aged 30-37, completed the 4-week registry study. A control group of 20 subjects used only the standard management (SM) and one group of 20 subjects took 300 mg Robuvit® in addition. Safety and tolerability of Robuvit® were optimal. The two registry groups were comparable at inclusion.
Results: The overall scores of the real daily life and tasks questionnaire after 4 weeks were significantly higher in the Robuvit® group (P<0.05) as compared to controls. It increased from 4.3±0.4 at baseline to 6.78±0.8 after 4 weeks of Robuvit® intake and from 4.2±0.5 to 5.12±1.0 in the control group. The supplementation significantly improved the subjective perception of fatigue in comparison with controls (P<0.05). A practical professional score evaluation provided an indication of professional attitude and stamina, in difficult, stressful working conditions under continuous pressure. The results showed that after 4-week supplementation, all assessed parameters improved significantly and the difference with controls was statistically significant (P<0.05). Furthermore, oxidative stress as plasma free radicals decreased significantly in the Robuvit® group (P<0.05) but not in the control group.
Conclusions: Robuvit® supplementation appears to improve most symptoms related to work-induced fatigue, stress and cognitive function and supports stamina. Further evaluations need to be planned according to the concept of this pilot registry in a field that requires more attention.