Modafinil affects mood, but not cognitive function, in healthy young volunteers

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychopharmacology

Background:

• Modafinil is recognized for promoting wakefulness, particularly in narcolepsy and sleep deprivation.
• Its effects on cognitive function and mood in healthy, non-sleep-deprived individuals require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of modafinil on cognitive performance and mood in healthy students.
• To compare the effects of different modafinil dosages (100 mg and 200 mg) against a placebo.

Main Methods:

• A double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 30 healthy students.
• Participants received either placebo, 100 mg, or 200 mg of modafinil.
• Cognitive tests (pen-and-paper and CANTAB) and visual analogue scales for mood and bodily symptoms were administered.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in cognitive test performance were observed across the modafinil and placebo groups.
• The 100 mg modafinil group reported significantly higher somatic anxiety, including symptoms like shaking, palpitations, and irritability.
• Cognitive testing stress led to increased psychological anxiety and aggressive mood in the 100 mg group compared to others.

Conclusions:

• Modafinil does not enhance cognitive function in healthy, non-sleep-deprived students.
• A 100 mg dose of modafinil may increase anxiety and aggressive mood, particularly after cognitive challenges.
• Further research is needed to understand modafinil's nuanced effects on mood regulation.