Researchers at Mass General Brigham have found that the wake-promoting drug solriamfetol effectively helps early morning shift workers remain alert. This investigation focused on individuals diagnosed with shift work disorder, enrolling 78 participants for the clinical trial.
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Solriamfetol, which is already approved for the treatment of excessive sleepiness associated with obstructive sleep apnea and narcolepsy, was tested to determine its impact on shift workers. Half of the participants received solriamfetol daily for four weeks, while the other half were given a placebo. Researchers assessed the workers' ability to stay awake in a controlled, dark environment, simulating their actual work hours. Participants reported improvements in daily functioning and productivity during this period.
After the study duration, those taking solriamfetol experienced significantly less sleepiness and could stay awake longer during these simulated hours compared to those taking the placebo. Dr. Charles Czeisler of Mass General Brigham noted the drug's remarkable effectiveness in helping individuals with serious difficulties in maintaining alertness.
The research team is now planning a follow-up clinical trial involving overnight shift workers to further evaluate solriamfetol as a potential treatment for shift work disorder.