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Published on: February 10, 2012
Modafinil and nicotine interactions in abstinent smokers
Mehmet Sofuoglu1, Andrew J Waters, Marc Mooney
1Department of Psychiatry and VA Connecticut Healthcare System, School of Medicine, Yale University, West Haven, Connecticut 06516, USA. mehmet.sofuoglu@yale.edu
Human Psychopharmacology
|September 18, 2007
Summary
Modafinil alone worsened mood but combined with nicotine, it increased energy. Modafinil did not reduce smoking withdrawal symptoms but did improve cognitive function and vital signs.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Smoking cessation remains a significant public health challenge.
- Nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) are effective but can be enhanced.
- Wakefulness-promoting agents are being explored for cognitive and mood effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of modafinil, alone and with nicotine, on smokers.
- To assess subjective, physiological, and cognitive outcomes.
- To evaluate modafinil's impact on nicotine withdrawal symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study with 19 overnight abstinent smokers.
- Administration of 200 mg or 400 mg modafinil or placebo orally.
- Administration of a 2 mg nicotine lozenge 2 hours and 10 minutes post-medication.
Main Results:
- Modafinil alone increased negative affect and depressive symptoms.
- Modafinil (200 mg) combined with nicotine increased energy ratings.
- Modafinil attenuated perceived nicotine 'drug strength' but did not reduce withdrawal.
- Modafinil increased heart rate, blood pressure, and improved reaction times on a Stroop task.
Conclusions:
- Modafinil's effects on mood are dose-dependent and interact with nicotine.
- Modafinil may improve cognitive performance relevant to smoking cessation.
- Further research is needed to determine modafinil's clinical utility for smoking cessation.
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