A recent clinical trial conducted by Mass General Brigham has shown that solriamfetol, a wake-promoting drug, can effectively reduce excessive sleepiness among early-morning shift workers diagnosed with shift work disorder. This study, published in NEJM Evidence, addresses a significant gap in research, as prior clinical trials had primarily focused on medications for overnight shift workers.
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Early-morning shifts, which start between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m., can pose substantial challenges, as workers' biological clocks are still inclined toward sleep during these hours. According to Kirsi-Marja Zitting, PhD, the first author, these workers experience excessive sleepiness during work and difficulty sleeping during off hours, leading to concerns regarding their job performance, safety, and well-being.
The trial involved 78 early-morning shift workers who met the criteria for shift work disorder. Participants were divided into two groups: one receiving solriamfetol and the other a placebo, over four weeks. After the study period, those taking solriamfetol reported significant reductions in sleepiness and increased wakefulness during simulated work hours.
The findings indicate that workers taking solriamfetol maintained alertness throughout an eight-hour shift, suggesting real-world implications for safety and productivity. Charles A. Czeisler, PhD, MD, the senior author, emphasized the importance of supporting this often-overlooked group of workers who face biological challenges due to their schedules.
The long-term effects of solriamfetol remain to be determined, highlighting the need for further research. In addition, the team is seeking participants for a follow-up trial to test solriamfetol's effectiveness among overnight shift workers, which could further reinforce its utility as a treatment for shift work disorder.
This study was funded by Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Axsome Therapeutics, and the Brigham and Women’s Hospital Center for Clinical Investigation. The trial registration number is NCT04788953.