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Updated: May 26, 2026
A General Method for Evaluating Deep Brain Stimulation Effects on Intravenous Methamphetamine Self-Administration
Published on: January 22, 2016
Acute modafinil exposure reduces daytime sleepiness in abstinent methamphetamine-dependent volunteers
James J Mahoney1, Brian J Jackson, Ari D Kalechstein
1Baylor College of Medicine, Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Houston, TX, USA. james.mahoney@bcm.edu
Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of acute, oral modafinil (200 mg) exposure on daytime sleepiness in methamphetamine (Meth)-dependent individuals. Eighteen Meth-dependent subjects were enrolled in a 7-d inpatient study and were administered placebo or modafinil on day 6 and the counter-condition on day 7 (randomized) of the protocol. Subjects completed several subjective daily assessments (such as the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Beck Depression Inventory and visual analogue scale) throughout the protocol as well as objective assessments on days 5-7, when the Multiple Sleep Latency Test was performed. The results of the current study suggest that short-term abstinence from Meth is associated with increased daytime sleepiness and that a single dose of 200 mg modafinil reduces daytime somnolence in this population. In addition, a positive correlation was found between subjective reporting of the likelihood of taking a nap and craving and desire for Meth, as well as the likelihood of using Meth and whether Meth would make the participant feel better. The results of this study should be considered when investigating candidate medications for Meth-dependence, especially in those individuals who attribute their Meth use to overcoming deficits resulting from sleep abnormalities.
Insights
Methamphetamine abstinence increases daytime sleepiness. A single 200 mg dose of modafinil effectively reduced sleepiness in dependent individuals, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits for managing sleep disturbances in this population.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Methamphetamine dependence is a significant public health issue.
- Sleep disturbances and daytime somnolence are common in individuals with methamphetamine dependence.
- Understanding the relationship between sleep, craving, and use is crucial for treatment development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of modafinil on daytime sleepiness in methamphetamine-dependent individuals.
- To explore the correlation between sleepiness, craving, and methamphetamine use.
- To assess modafinil's potential as an adjunct treatment for methamphetamine dependence.
Main Methods:
- Eighteen methamphetamine-dependent subjects participated in a 7-day inpatient study.
- Participants received either modafinil (200 mg) or placebo, followed by a crossover.
- Subjective assessments (e.g., Epworth Sleepiness Scale) and objective measures (Multiple Sleep Latency Test) were utilized.
Main Results:
- Short-term abstinence from methamphetamine was linked to heightened daytime sleepiness.
- A single 200 mg dose of modafinil significantly reduced daytime somnolence.
- Increased likelihood of nap-taking correlated with methamphetamine craving and desire.
Conclusions:
- Modafinil demonstrates efficacy in reducing daytime sleepiness in methamphetamine-dependent individuals.
- Sleep abnormalities may contribute to methamphetamine use, highlighting the need for integrated treatment approaches.
- Findings inform the investigation of medications for methamphetamine dependence, particularly those addressing sleep deficits.
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