Hypnotic efficacy of zaleplon for daytime sleep in rested individuals

The primary objective of this study was to determine whether zaleplon (10 mg) effectively promoted sleep during the daytime in well-rested individuals when compared to placebo. A secondary objective was to see if, while not expected, the use of zaleplon impacted the performance of well-rested individuals upon awakening.

Repeated measures with 2 within-subject factors: drug (placebo/zaleplon) and trial (hourly testing during waking hours). Polysomnographic variables were recorded during a 3.5-hour nap following drug administration. Performance measures and subjective reports were collected during every waking trial of each session.

The study was conducted at the Chronobiology and Sleep Laboratory located at Brooks Air Force Base.

Twelve participants, 6 men and 6 women.

10-mg zaleplon or placebo capsules, single afternoon dose. Drug administration was counterbalanced and double-blinded.

Zaleplon allowed participants to obtain significantly more slow-wave sleep than under placebo. There was also a trend for participants under zaleplon to accomplish a greater amount of sleep than under placebo. Performance was not adversely impacted following a 3.5-hour daytime sleep under zaleplon, nor were any undesirable symptoms induced.

Zaleplon improves sleep quality when used by rested individuals to accomplish daytime sleep.