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IntroductIon
EXCESSIVE DAYTIME SLEEPINESS HAS A SIGNIFICANT DETRIMENTAL IMPACT ON PSYCHOLOGICAL, SOCIAL AND VOCATIONAL FUNCTION AND PERSONAL SAFETY, thus adversely affecting quality of life. Sleepiness is an important public health issue among individuals who work in fields where the lack of attention can result in injury to self or others such as transportation and healthcare. Hypersomnia of central origin is a category of disorders in which daytime sleepiness is the primary complaint, but the cause of this symptom is not due to “disturbed nocturnal sleep or misaligned circadian rhythms.”1
Narcolepsy, a disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and intermittent manifestations of REM sleep during wakefulness, is the best characterized and studied central hyper-
somnia. The use of stimulants for treatment of narcolepsy was the subject of an American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) review paper in 1994, and formed the basis for practice param- eters published by the Standards of Practice Committee (SPC) of the AASM on therapy of narcolepsy with stimulants.2,3 In 2000, the SPC published a combined review and updated practice pa- rameters on treatment of narcolepsy that included therapies other than stimulants.4
Since the publication of the 2000 paper, there have been signif- icant advances concerning the treatment of hypersomnia to justify a practice parameters update. In addition, since the publication of the previous practice parameters, the AASM published a revised coding manual, the International Classification of Sleep Disor- ders, Second Edition (ICSD-2).1 The ISCD-2 includes 12 disor- ders under the category of hypersomnia of central origin. This updated parameter paper and the accompanying review expanded the scope of the review and practice parameters to a subset of disorders in which the primary pathophysiology of hypersomnia is not related to sleep restriction, medication use or psychiatric disorder. For these disorders, the use of alerting medications of- ten represent the primary mode of therapy. The specific disorders included in these practice parameters are narcolepsy (with cata- plexy, without cataplexy, due to medical condition and unspeci- fied) idiopathic hypersomnia (with long sleep time and without long sleep time), recurrent hypersomnia, and hypersomnia due to a medical condition. For the remainder of this manuscript, use of
Practice Parameters for the Treatment of Narcolepsy and other Hypersomnias of Central Origin An American Academy of Sleep Medicine Report
Timothy I. Morgenthaler, MD1; Vishesh K. Kapur, MD, MPH2; Terry M. Brown, DO3; Todd J. Swick, MD4; Cathy Alessi, MD5; R. Nisha Aurora, MD6; Brian Boehlecke, MD7; Andrew L. Chesson Jr., MD8; Leah Friedman, MA, PhD9; Rama Maganti, MD10; Judith Owens, MD11; Jeffrey Pancer, DDS12; Rochelle Zak, MD6; Standards of Practice Committee of the AASM
1Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; 2University of Washington, Seattle, WA; 3St. Joseph Memorial Hospital, Murphysboro, IL; 4Houston Sleep Center, Houston, TX; 5VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System-Sepulveda and University of California, Los Angeles, CA; 6Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, New York; 7University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC; 8Louisiana State University, Shreveport, LA; 9Stanford University, Stanford, CA; 10Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, AZ; 11Rhode Island Hospital Providence, RI; 12Toronto, Canada
Practice Parameter—Morgenthaler et al
disclosure Statement This is not an industry supported study. The authors have indicated no finan- cial conflicts of interest.
Submitted for publication September, 2007 Accepted for publication September, 2007 Address correspondence to: Standards of Practice Committee, American Academy of Sleep Medicine, One Westbrook Corporate Center, Suite 920, Westchester IL 60154, Tel: (708) 492-0930, Fax: (780) 492-0943, E-mail: aasm@aasmnet.org
These practice parameters pertain to the treatment of hypersomnias of central origin. They serve as both an update of previous practice param- eters for the therapy of narcolepsy and as the first practice parameters to address treatment of other hypersomnias of central origin. They are based on evidence analyzed in the accompanying review paper. The specific disorders addressed by these parameters are narcolepsy (with cataplexy, without cataplexy, due to medical condition and unspecified), idiopathic hypersomnia (with long sleep time and without long sleep time), recur- rent hypersomnia and hypersomnia due to medical condition. Successful treatment of hypersomnia of central origin requires an accurate diagno- sis, individual tailoring of therapy to produce the fullest possible return of normal function, and regular follow-up to monitor response to treatment. Modafinil, sodium oxybate, amphetamine, methamphetamine, dextroam- phetamine, methylphenidate, and selegiline are effective treatments for excessive sleepiness associated with narcolepsy, while tricyclic antide- pressants and fluoxetine are effective treatments for cataplexy, sleep pa- ralysis, and hypnagogic hallucinations; but the quality of published clinical
evidence supporting them varies. Scheduled naps can be beneficial to combat sleepiness in narcolepsy patients. Based on available evidence, modafinil is an effective therapy for sleepiness due to idiopathic hyper- somnia, Parkinson’s disease, myotonic dystrophy, and multiple sclerosis. Based on evidence and/or long history of use in the therapy of narcolepsy committee consensus was that modafinil, amphetamine, methamphet- amine, dextroamphetamine, and methylphenidate are reasonable options for the therapy of hypersomnias of central origin. Keywords: Narcolepsy, idiopathic hypersomnia, recurrent hypersomnia, Parkinson’s disease, myotonic dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, modafinil, sodium oxybate, amphetamine, methamphetamine, dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate, selegiline, tricyclic antidepressants, fluoxetine citation: Morgenthaler TI; Kapur VK; Brown TM; Swick TJ; Alessi C; Au- rora RN; Boehlecke B; Chesson AL; Friedman L; Maganti R; Owens J; Pancer J; Zak R; Standards of Practice Committee of the AASM. Practice parameters for the treatment of narcolepsy and other hypersomnias of central origin. SLEEP 2007;30(12):1705-1711.
HyperSomnIA
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content experts in 2005 to perform a comprehensive review of the medical literature regarding treatment of hypersomnias of central origin, and to grade the strength of evidence for each citation. The literature search was performed using Medline, and details regarding search terms, exclusions, and methods for screening by Task Force members, and questions addressed are provided in the accompanying review paper. The grading of evidence was per- formed by the Task Force in accordance with the scheme shown in Table 1. Three members of the Standards of Practice Commit- tee (VK, TB, and TS) served as liaisons to facilitate communica- tion between the Standards of Practice Committee and the Task Force. The Standards of Practice Committee used the evidence review of the Task Force, the prior practice parameters on narco- lepsy, and the reviews upon which they were informed to develop these updated practice parameters, and rated the levels (strength) of recommendations using the AASM codification shown in Ta- ble 2. This practice parameter paper is referenced, where appro- priate, using square-bracketed numbers to the relevant sections and tables in the accompanying review paper, or with additional references at the end of this paper. When scientific data were ab- sent, insufficient or inconclusive, committee consensus was used to develop recommendations at an “Option” level (Table 2).
The Board of Directors of the AASM approved these recom- mendations. All members of the AASM Standards of Practice Committee and Board of Directors completed detailed conflict of interest statements and were found to have no conflicts of inter- est with regard to this subject. These practice parameters define principles of practice that should meet the needs of most patients in most situations. These guidelines should not, however, be con- sidered inclusive of all proper methods of care or exclusive of other methods of care reasonably directed to obtaining the same results. The ultimate judgment regarding propriety of any specific care must be made by the physician, in light of the individual cir- cumstances presented by the patient, available diagnostic tools, accessible treatment options, and resources. The AASM expects these guidelines to have an impact on professional behavior, pa- tient outcomes, and, possibly, health care costs. These practice parameters reflect the state of knowledge at the time of publica- tion and will be reviewed, updated, and revised as new informa- tion becomes available.
Table 2—AASM Levels of Recommendations
Term Definition Standard This is a generally accepted patient-care strat-
egy that reflects a high degree of clinical cer- tainty. The term standard generally implies the use of level 1 evidence, which directly addresses the clinical issue, or overwhelming level 2 evidence.
Guideline This is a patient-care strategy that reflects a moderate degree of clinical certainty. The term guideline implies the use of level 2 evi- dence or a consensus of level 3 evidence.
Option This is a patient-care strategy that reflects un- certain clinical use. The term option implies either inconclusive or conflicting evidence or conflicting expert opinion.
Adapted from Eddy8
the term “hypersomnia of central origin” will refer to this subset of disorders.
Idiopathic hypersomnia presents as constant and severe exces- sive sleepiness with naps that are unrefreshing. Post awakening confusion (sleep drunkenness) is often reported. Idiopathic hyper- somnia with long sleep time includes a prolonged sleep episode of at least 10 hours duration and is felt to be a unique disease entity.1
Recurrent hypersomnia is a rare disorder characterized by re- current episodes of hypersomnia.1 The Klein-Levin syndrome is the best characterized type and presents with associated behavior- al abnormalities including binge eating and hypersexuality. Hy- persomnia due to a medical condition refers to hypersomnia due to a co-existing medical condition in the absence of cataplexy.1 Important subtypes of this diagnostic category include hypersom- nia secondary to Parkinson’s disease, posttraumatic hypersomnia, genetic disorders (e.g., Prader-Willi syndrome and myotonic dys- trophy) and hypersomnia due to central nervous system lesions.
The purpose of this practice parameter paper is to present rec- ommendations on therapy of hypersomnia of central origin. It updates the prior parameters for the treatment of narcolepsy and provides the first practice parameters on the therapy of other hy- persomnias of central origin. Recommendations are based on the accompanying review paper produced by a Task Force established by the SPC.5 The review paper provides a systematic and compre- hensive review of the medical literature regarding treatment of hypersomnias of central origin and grades the evidence contained within the literature using the Oxford evidence grading system.6
metHodS
The Standards of Practice Committee of the AASM developed the clinical questions and scope of practice to be addressed in the present practice parameters. The AASM appointed a Task Force of
Table 1—AASM Classification of Evidence
Evidence Levels Study Design I Randomized, well-designed trials with low
alpha and beta error,* or meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials with homogene- ity of results
II Randomized trials with high alpha and beta error, methodologic problems, or high qual- ity cohort studies*
III Nonrandomized concurrently controlled studies (case-control studies)
IV Case-control or cohort studies with method- ological problems, or case series
V Expert opinion, or studies based on physiol- ogy or bench research
Oxford levels adapted from Sackett 6,7 *Alpha (type I error) refers to the probability that the null hypothesis is rejected when in fact it is true (generally acceptable at 5% or less, or P<0.05). Beta (Type II error) refers to the probability that the null hypothesis is mistakenly accepted when in fact it is false (generally, trials accept a beta error of 0.20). The estimation of Type II error is generally the result of a power analysis. The power analysis takes into account the variability and the effect size to determine if sample size is adequate to find a difference in means when it is present (power generally acceptable at 80%-90%).
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recommendAtIonS
Recommendations concerning narcolepsy which are similar to, or are an expansion of previous ones, and new recommendations are noted as such in the text. The recommendations concerning other hypersomnias of central origin represent the first recom- mendations on treatment of these disorders. Recommendations regarding use of medications apply only to adults except when specified.
1. An accurate diagnosis of a specific hypersomnia disorder of central origin should be established. the evaluation should include a thorough evaluation of other possible contributing causes of excessive daytime sleepiness. (Standard).
Prior to committing to long-term therapy of hypersomnia, an accurate diagnosis is important in order to choose an appropriate therapy. The ICSD-2 specifies necessary diagnostic tests and crite- ria for each disorder of hypersomnia of central origin.1 Many other conditions produce such sleepiness and can mimic or coexist with a hypersomnia of central origin. These include sleep disordered breathing syndromes, periodic limb movements, insufficient sleep, psychiatric disorders, medications, and circadian rhythm disorders. All need to be considered in the differential diagnosis as possibly causing or contributing to the excessive sleepiness in a patient with a hypersomnia of central origin. Management of these primary or concomitant disorders will require specific therapeutic interven- tions apart from the use of CNS alerting agents or CNS neuromod- ulator agents. We acknowledge that this recommendation is based on committee consensus and is only slightly revised from a previ- ous recommendation which was restricted to narcolepsy.4 Typically consensus only merits an “Option” level of recommendation. Al- though there are no articles addressing the need for an accurate di- agnosis, all subsequent evidence evaluating efficacy of treatments assumes an accurate diagnosis has been established. Therefore, the SPC left this recommendation at a “Standard” level.
2. treatment objectives should include control of sleepiness and other sleep related symptoms when present. (Standard)
It has been previously recommended that a major objective of treatment of narcolepsy should be to alleviate daytime sleepiness. The goal should be to produce the fullest possible return of normal function for patients at work, at school, at home, and socially. This recommendation was revised by committee consensus to apply to the disorders of hypersomnia of central origin. A recommendation to control nocturnal symptoms of disrupted sleep is added to the previous recommendation to control cataplexy, hypnagogic hal- lucinations, and sleep paralysis, when present and troublesome in patients with narcolepsy. As previously recommended for nar- colepsy, a healthcare provider should consider the benefit to risk ratio of medication for an individual patient, the cost of medica- tion, convenience of administration, and the cost of ongoing care including possible laboratory tests when selecting a medication for treatment of any hypersomnia of central origin.
3. the following are treatment options for narcolepsy.
Most of the agents used to treat excessive sleepiness have little effect on cataplexy or other REM sleep associated symptoms.
Conversely, most antidepressants and anticataplectics have little effect on alertness. However, some compounds act on both symp- toms. We have indicated which symptoms are addressed by the various agents below. Compounds should be selected depending on the diagnosis and the targeted symptoms. Co-administration of two or more classes of compounds may be needed in some patients to adequately address their symptoms.
a. modafinil is effective for treatment of daytime sleepiness due to narcolepsy [4.1.1.2] (Standard).
This recommendation is unchanged from the previous recom- mendation. Fourteen additional studies including four level 1 studies and two level 2 studies support this recommendation.9-14,15 The approved recommended dose of modafinil is 200 mg given once daily, but higher doses and split dose regimens have been investigated. Three level 1 studies indicated that the use of a split dose strategy provides better control of daytime sleepiness than a single daily dose.12,14 One of the studies demonstrated that add- ing a dose of modafinil 200 mg at 12:00 after a 400 mg dose at 07:00 improved late day maintenance of wakefulness test (MWT) scores relative to a single 400 mg morning dose alone.14 A second study demonstrated that a split dosing strategy either with 200 mg of modafinil at 07:00 and 12:00 or 400 mg in the morning and 200 mg at noon was significantly superior to a single morning 200 mg dose at 07:00.12 Statistical comparisons to a group that received a 400 mg dose in the morning alone were not provided, but split dosing strategies trended towards improved control of sleepiness in the evening. A third study assessed subjects with reported persistent late afternoon or evening sleepiness despite a positive response to modafinil therapy. Subjects who received 400 mg per day in a divided dosage experienced improvement in subjective and objective measures of sleepiness in the afternoon or evening compared with those on a single 200 mg or 400 mg dosage.13 A level 1 study by Black et al. compared combinations of active and placebo preparations of modafinil and sodium oxy- bate.9 Subjects who received active modafinil showed improve- ment in objective and subjective sleepiness compared to placebo modafinil. Those subjects receiving both active modafinil and ac- tive sodium oxybate showed the most improvement suggesting an additive effect of the combination. One level 4 open label study showed modafinil was effective in improving sleepiness and was generally well tolerated in 13 children (mean age 11 years) with narcolepsy or idiopathic hypersomnia.10
One additional level 1 study of 196 subjects involved assess- ment of armodafinil (the longer half-life enantiomer of modafinil) for treatment of excessive sleepiness in patients with narcolepsy. Subjects receiving armodafinil experienced significant improve- ment in sleepiness as measured by the MWT mean sleep latency, and in the Clinical Global Impression of Change.16
b. Sodium oxybate is effective for treatment of cataplexy, daytime sleepiness, and disrupted sleep due to narcolepsy [4.2.1, 4.1.1.3, 4.3.1](Standard). Sodium oxybate may be effective for treatment of hypnagogic hallucinations and sleep paralysis [4.4.1] (option).
This is a new recommendation, and is based on three level 1 and two level 4 studies. Three level 1 studies support the efficacy of sodium oxybate in treating cataplexy.17-19 One of these studies also supported its efficacy in treating daytime sleepiness and dis-
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rupted sleep but found no significant improvement in hypnagogic hallucinations or sleep paralysis.17 Two additional level 1 studies supported its efficacy in treating daytime sleepiness.9,20 There was one level 4 study that supported its efficacy in improving daytime sleepiness, nocturnal awakenings, sleep paralysis, and hypnago- gic hallucinations.21 Studies that supported efficacy in improving daytime sleepiness showed greater treatment effects and statisti- cally significant effects most consistently at the highest dose (9 g/night). In addition, there was one level 4 study that supported its efficacy for cataplexy and daytime sleepiness.22
c. Amphetamine, methamphetamine, dextroamphetamine, and methylphenidate are effective for treatment of daytime sleepiness due to narcolepsy [4.1.1.1] (Guideline).
This recommendation is unchanged from the previous recom- mendation. These medications have a long history of effective use in clinical practice but have limited information available on ben- efit-to-risk ratio.4 This lack of information may reflect the limited sources of research funding for medications available in generic form rather than clinical utility of these medications.
d. Selegiline may be an effective treatment for cataplexy and daytime sleepiness. [4.1.1.4] (option)
This recommendation was downgraded from the previous rec- ommendation based on committee consensus. The current litera- ture review did not identify additional studies that met inclusion criteria. The use of selegiline is limited by potential drug inter- actions and diet-induced interactions. Because of limited clinical experience with the use of this medication for narcolepsy and po- tential drug and diet interactions, the committee had significant reservations about this agent being used as the preferred initial choice for treatment of sleepiness in narcolepsy.
e. ritanserin may be effective treatment of daytime sleepiness due to narcolepsy [4.1.1.6] (option).
This is a new recommendation based on two level 2 studies of ritanserin, a 5-HT2 antagonist. One study demonstrated improve- ment in subjective sleepiness, but not in mean sleep latency on MSLT in narcolepsy patients (N=28) when ritanserin 5 mg/day was added to the medication regimen.23 The other study, which compared 5 mg, 10 mg, or placebo in 134 subjects with narco- lepsy, did not demonstrate significant improvement in sleepiness, but showed improvement in subjective sleep quality.24 Ritanserin is not available for use in the United States.
f. Scheduled naps can be beneficial to combat sleepiness but seldom suffice as primary therapy for narcolepsy [4.1.2] (Guideline).
This recommendation is unchanged from the previous rec- ommendation. The current search identified an additional level 2 study which supports the use of scheduled naps in narcolepsy patients who remain sleepy despite the use of medications.25 The combination of regular bedtimes and two 15-minute regularly scheduled naps reduced unscheduled daytime sleep episodes and sleepiness when compared to stimulant therapy alone.
g. pemoline has rare but potentially lethal liver toxicity, is no longer available in the united States, and is no longer recommended for treatment of narcolepsy [4.1.1.7] (option).
This is a new recommendation based on committee consensus.
h. tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSrIs), venlafaxine, and reboxetine may be effective treatment for cataplexy [4.2.2] (Guideline).
This recommendation is changed from the previous recom- mendation addressing treatment of cataplexy, hypnagogic hal- lucinations, and sleep paralysis. The medications recommended for treatment of cataplexy have been expanded to include SSRIs, venlafaxine, and reboxitine. A separate recommendation regard- ing treatment of hypnagogic hallucinations and sleep paralysis is addressed below as a separate parameter. There was limited evidence regarding treatment of cataplexy in the prior practice parameters. In the updated review, only one level 4 study26 in- volving treatment of cataplexy with a medication other than so- dium oxybate was identified. Reboxetine, a selective norepineph- rine reuptake inhibitor, decreased cataplexy in 12 subjects with narcolepsy with cataplexy. Reboxetine is not available for use in the United States. The previous recommendation for the SSRI fluoxetine was based on one level 2 and one level 5 study sup- porting its efficacy for treatment of cataplexy. Additional studies of other SSRIs in the treatment of cataplexy and related symp- toms did not meet our inclusion criteria as most were case reports and small open label studies. However, the clinical experience of sleep specialists and committee consensus, as well as the more limited open label studies with small numbers of subjects, reflect that additional SSRIs are useful for treating cataplexy in patients with narcolepsy. The antidepressant venlafaxine, which increases serotonin and norepinephrine uptake, may also reduce cataplexy, based on clinical experience, committee consensus, and a case study of 4 patients that did not meet inclusion criteria for our review.27
i. tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSrIs), and venlafaxine may be effective treatment for treatment of sleep paralysis and hypnagogic hallucinations [4.4.2] (option).
By consensus, this recommendation is revised from the prior recommendation. The recommendation level is reduced from guideline to option. Additional antidepressant medications are also recommended. No new pertinent studies have been identified in the current review. Recommendation level was downgraded to reflect that this recommendation is based on anectodal experience of committee members. These treatments may be considered for this indication when the treating physician and patient believe that the benefits of treatment outweigh the risks. In addition, based on clinical experience and committee consensus, the recommen- dations are extended to include additional antidepressant agents (SSRIs and venlafaxine).
4. modafinil may be effective for treatment of daytime sleepiness due to idiopathic hypersomnia [4.8] (option).
One level 4 study that included 24 patients with narcolepsy and 18 with idiopathic hypersomnolence examined the efficacy
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of modafinil in adults with idiopathic hypersomnia.28 There were improvements in the mean number of drowsy episodes and sleep attacks as recorded in sleep diaries for both patient groups on this medication. This is a new recommendation.
5. the following medications may be effective treatments for specific types of hypersomnia due to a medical condition [4.9].
a. modafinil may be effective for treatment of daytime sleepiness due to parkinson’s disease (option).
This conclusion is based on: one level 1 study which showed improvement in the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) but no change in MWT29; one level 2 study which showed no improve- ment in subjective or objective measures of excessive daytime sleepiness30; one level 4 study which showed improvement in ESS31; and Committee consensus. However the benefit to risk ratio is not well documented because the published clinical trials include only small numbers of patients. This is a new recom- mendation.
b. modafinil may be effective for treatment of daytime sleepiness due to myotonic dystrophy (option).
This conclusion is based on one level 1 study which showed improvement in MWT but no significant change in ESS, and on committee consensus. The benefit to risk ratio is not well docu- mented because the published clinical trial included only small numbers (n=20) of patients.32 This is a new recommendation.
c. methylphenidate may be effective for treatment of daytime sleepiness due to myotonic dystrophy (option)
This conclusion is based on one small (N=11) level 4 study of methylphenidate for treatment of sleepiness associated with myotonic dystrophy that demonstrated improvement in subjec- tive sleepiness in 7 of 11 subjects at doses up to 40 mg/day, and committee consensus.
d. modafinil may be effective for treatment of daytime sleepiness due to multiple sclerosis (Guideline).
This conclusion is based on one level 2 study (N=72) and one level 4 study (N=50) which showed improvement on the ESS.33,34 This is a new recommendation.
6. Lithium carbonate may be effective for treatment of recurrent hypersomnia and behavioral symptoms due to Kleine-Levin syndrome. [4.6] (option)
This recommendation is based on one small case series (N=5) that indicated that the duration of hypersomnia episodes was shorter and there were no behavioral symptoms during episodes that were treated with lithium carbonate,35 and committee con- sensus.
7. the following medications may be effective for treatment of daytime sleepiness in idiopathic hypersomnia (with and without long sleep time), recurrent hypersomnia, and hypersomnia due to a medical condition: amphetamine, methamphetamine,
dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate, and modafinil [4.7, 4.8, 4.9] (option)
The literature supporting the efficacy of these medications for other specific disorders such as narcolepsy have been reviewed. Where published evidence meeting search criteria is available for the use of any of these medications in the conditions listed, this has been provided in sections 4 and 5. This recommendation ap- plies to those medications and conditions combinations for which published literature meeting search criteria is not available. Al- though there is no reason to suspect they will not improve alert- ness, individualized therapy and close follow-up to ensure effica- cy and monitor for side effects is needed. The recommendations for these disorders are based on committee consensus.
8. the following are treatment recommendations previously applied to narcolepsy only. their application is now extended to the hypersomnias of central origin covered by this practice parameter paper by committee consensus.
a. combinations of long- and short-acting forms of stimulants may be indicated and effective for some patients (option).
Some stimulants have a short (3 to 4 hours) effective period (e.g., methylphenidate). Others have longer duration of activity and longer onset of action (e.g., modafinil, sustained-release am- phetamine, sustained-release methylphenidate). By combining stimulants with different activity characteristics, it may be pos- sible to achieve alertness quickly and for longer periods of time and succeed in avoiding insomnia as an unwanted side effect.4
b. treatment of hypersomnias of central origin with methylphenidate or modafinil in children between the ages of 6 and 15 appears to be relatively safe. [4.1.1.2, 4.8, 5.1.1](option)
There is considerable experience with the use of methylpheni- date for treatment of attention deficit disorder.4 There is one level 4 study of modafinil in children with narcolepsy or idiopathic hypersomnolence that indicated it was safe and well tolerated in children who did not have other preexisting neurologic or psychi- atric conditions.10
c. regular follow-up of patients with hypersomnia of central origin is necessary to monitor response to treatment, to respond to potential side effects of medications, and to enhance the patient’s adaptation to the disorder [4.10] (Standard).
i. A patient previously stabilized on stimulant medication should be seen regularly by a health care provider at least once per year, and preferably once every 6 months, to assess the devel- opment of medication side effects, including sleep disturbances, mood changes, and cardiovascular or metabolic abnormalities.
ii. Follow-up is necessary to determine adherence and response to treatment; to monitor for the safety of medications in individ- ual patients; and to assist the patient with occupational and social problems.
iii. Patients with severe sleepiness should be advised to avoid potentially dangerous activities at home and at work, and should not operate a motor vehicle until sleepiness is appropriately con- trolled by stimulant medications.
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iv. Of the stimulants used to treat hypersomnia of central ori- gin, amphetamines, especially at high doses, are the most likely to result in the development of tolerance
v. Patients who fail to respond to adequate doses of stimulant medication should be carefully assessed for other sleep disorders that may contribute to excessive sleepiness such as insufficient sleep, inadequate sleep hygiene, circadian rhythm disorders, ob- structive sleep apnea syndrome, or periodic limb movement dis- order.
vi. For side effects, dosage ranges, use in pregnancy and by nursing mothers, and contraindications , see Tables 6 and 7 in the accompanying review paper.4
vii. Health care providers should assist the patient with occu- pational and social accommodation for disabilities due to hyper- somnia of central origin.
viii. Polysomnographic re-evaluation of patients should be considered if symptoms of sleepiness increase significantly or if specific symptoms develop that suggest new or increased sleep abnormalities that might occur in disorders such as sleep apnea or periodic limb movement disorder.
Areas for Future research
The preparation of this practice parameter and the accompany- ing review highlighted the need for additional research regarding treatment of hypersomnia of central origin.
1. comparisons of traditional stimulants to newer somnolytic agents for hypersomnia due to narcolepsy.
Several large randomized, placebo-controlled studies indicate that modafinil and sodium oxybate are effective for treatment of hypersomnia associated with narcolepsy. The traditional stimu- lants (amphetamine, methamphetamine, dextroamphetamine, and methylphenidate) which are available in generic form and are less expensive, have a long history of use in clinical practice, but have limited high-level evidence from published studies. There is a need for randomized trials that compare the newer agents to the traditional stimulants to establish relative efficacy and safety of these agents to guide the clinician in choosing between them for individual patients.
2. Additional assessment of antidepressants and comparison to sodium oxybate for treatment of cataplexy.
The recommendation for use of antidepressants for cataplexy is based largely on clinical experience and lower evidence level clinical trials. Randomized controlled trials of these agents, par- ticularly with comparison to sodium oxybate, a more expensive medication that has high level evidence of efficacy, are needed to assist the clinician in medication selection.
3. new therapies for treatment of hypersomnia due to narcolepsy.
As indicated by the accompanying review, traditional stimu- lants, modafinil and sodium oxybate provide, at best, only moder- ate improvement in sleepiness in patients with narcolepsy. Future investigations should be directed toward development of more ef- fective and better tolerated therapies, and primary prevention.
4. need for studies on treatment of hypersomnias of central origin other than narcolepsy.
The review identifies very few studies that address the treat- ment of sleepiness in specific hypersomnia disorders other than narcolepsy. There is a need for studies, particularly testing the use of traditional stimulants in these disorders.
5. need for peer-reviewed literature regarding special populations including children, elderly patients, and pregnant and nursing women.
The review identified very few studies that involve special populations with hypersomnia such as children, older adults, or pregnant or nursing women. There is a need for studies that ad- dress safety issues specific to these populations.
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8. Eddy, D. A manual for assessing health practices and designing practice policies: the explicit approach.ed). Philadelphia: American College of Physicians, 1992:
9. Black, J, and Houghton, WC. Sodium oxybate improves excessive daytime sleepiness in narcolepsy. Sleep 2006;29:939-46
10. Ivanenko, A, Tauman, R, and Gozal, D. Modafinil in the treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness in children. Sleep Med 2003;4:579-82
11. Saletu, M, Anderer, P, Saletu-Zyhlarz, GM, Mandl, M, Arnold, O, Zeitlhofer, J, and Saletu, B. EEG-tomographic studies with LORE- TA on vigilance differences between narcolepsy patients and con- trols and subsequent double-blind, placebo-controlled studies with modafinil. J Neurol 2004;251:1354-63
12. Schwartz, JR, Feldman, NT, and Bogan, RK. Dose effects of modafinil in sustaining wakefulness in narcolepsy patients with residual evening sleepiness. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 2005;17:405-12
13. Schwartz, JR, Feldman, NT, Bogan, RK, Nelson, MT, and Hughes, RJ. Dosing regimen effects of modafinil for improving daytime wakefulness in patients with narcolepsy. Clin Neuropharmacol 2003;26:252-7
14. Schwartz, JR, Nelson, MT, Schwartz, ER, and Hughes, RJ. Effects of modafinil on wakefulness and executive function in patients with narcolepsy experiencing late-day sleepiness. Clin Neuropharmacol 2004;27:74-9
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15. Moldofsky, H, Broughton, RJ, and Hill, JD. A randomized trial of the long-term, continued efficacy and safety of modafinil in narco- lepsy. Sleep Med 2000;1:109-16
16. Harsh, JR, Hayduk, R, Rosenberg, R, et al. The efficacy and safety of armodafinil as treatment for adults with excessive sleepiness as- sociated with narcolepsy. Curr Med Res Opin 2006;22:761-74
17. U.S. Xyrem Multicenter Study Group. A randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled multicenter trial comparing the effects of three doses of orally administered sodium oxybate with placebo for the treatment of narcolepsy. Sleep 2002;25:42-9
18. U.S. Xyrem Multicenter Study Group. Sodium oxybate demon- strates long-term efficacy for the treatment of cataplexy in patients with narcolepsy. Sleep Med 2004;5:119-23
19. U.S. Xyrem Multicenter Study Group. Further evidence support- ing the use of sodium oxybate for the treatment of cataplexy: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 228 patients. Sleep Med 2005;6:415-21
20. The Xyrem International Study Group. A Double-Blind Placebo Controlled Study Demonstrates Sodium Oxybate Is Effective for the Treatment of Excessive Daytime Sleepiness in Narcolepsy. J of Clinical Sleep Medicine 2005;1:391-7
21. Mamelak, M, Black, J, Montplaisir, J, and Ristanovic, R. A pilot study on the effects of sodium oxybate on sleep architecture and daytime alertness in narcolepsy. Sleep 2004;27:1327-34
22. U.S. Xyrem Multicenter Study Group. A 12-month, open-label, multicenter extension trial of orally administered sodium oxybate for the treatment of narcolepsy. Sleep 2003;26:31-5
23. Lammers, GJ, Arends, J, Declerck, AC, Kamphuisen, HA, Schou- wink, G, and Troost, J. Ritanserin, a 5-HT2 receptor blocker, as add- on treatment in narcolepsy. Sleep 1991;14:130-2
24. Mayer, G. Ritanserin improves sleep quality in narcolepsy. Pharma- copsychiatry 2003;36:150-5
25. Rogers, AE, Aldrich, MS, and Lin, X. A comparison of three differ- ent sleep schedules for reducing daytime sleepiness in narcolepsy. Sleep 2001;24:385-91
26. Larrosa, O, de la Llave, Y, Bario, S, Granizo, JJ, and Garcia-Bor- reguero, D. Stimulant and anticataplectic effects of reboxetine in patients with narcolepsy: a pilot study. Sleep 2001;24:282-5
27. Smith, M, Parkes, JD, and Dahlitz, M. Venlafaxine in the treatment of the narcoleptic syndrome. J Sleep Research 1996;5:217
28. Bastuji, H, and Jouvet, M. Successful treatment of idiopathic hyper- somnia and narcolepsy with modafinil. Prog Neuropsychopharma- col Biol Psychiatry 1988;12:695-700
29. Hogl, B, Saletu, M, Brandauer, E, et al. Modafinil for the treat- ment of daytime sleepiness in Parkinson’s disease: a double-blind, randomized, crossover, placebo-controlled polygraphic trial. Sleep 2002;25:905-9
30. Ondo, WG, Fayle, R, Atassi, F, and Jankovic, J. Modafinil for daytime somnolence in Parkinson’s disease: double blind, placebo controlled parallel trial. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2005;76:1636-9
31. Nieves, AV, and Lang, AE. Treatment of excessive daytime sleepi- ness in patients with Parkinson’s disease with modafinil. Clin Neu- ropharmacol 2002;25:111-4
32. Talbot, K, Stradling, J, Crosby, J, and Hilton-Jones, D. Reduction in excess daytime sleepiness by modafinil in patients with myotonic dystrophy. Neuromuscul Disord 2003;13:357-64
33. Rammohan, KW, Rosenberg, JH, Lynn, DJ, Blumenfeld, AM, Pol- lak, CP, and Nagaraja, HN. Efficacy and safety of modafinil (Pro- vigil) for the treatment of fatigue in multiple sclerosis: a two centre phase 2 study. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2002;72:179-83
34. Zifko, UA, Rupp, M, Schwarz, S, Zipko, HT, and Maida, EM. Modafinil in treatment of fatigue in multiple sclerosis. Results of an open-label study. J Neurol 2002;249:983-7
35. Poppe, M, Friebel, D, Reuner, U, Todt, H, Koch, R, and Heubner, G. The Kleine-Levin syndrome – effects of treatment with lithium. Neuropediatrics 2003;34:113-9
Practice Parameter—Morgenthaler et al
SLEEP, Vol. 30, No. 12, 2007 S1
Evidence Table—Practice Parameters for the Treatment of Narcolepsy and other Hypersomnias of Central Origin An American Academy of Sleep Medicine Report
Author (yr); Oxford Grade; Patient Group.
Intervention/ Comparison Intervention
Outcomes Measures
Study Description/ Study type/Blinding
Method
Recruitment Source/ Funding
Source/ Recruitment
# patients enrolled/
completed/ Patients’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
# controls enrolled/ completed/Controls’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
Dose/Dosing Strategy Primary Study Outcomes Conclusions
Bastuji (1988); 4; N, IH
Modafinil EDS (subj) Pre and 1-2 months post treatment
comparison of number of drowsiness and
sleepiness attacks per day reported in a diary using Modafinil /cohort
study/no blinding
NR/NR/Expert- Assigned or Selected
Grps
24/22 with N/ 40 ±17 yrs/ 70.8%,
17/14 with IH, 45 ±15 yrs/52.9%
NA 200 mg-500 mg/ day in divided doses/BID (in am and
at noon)
There were significant decreases in the mean number of drowsy episodes and number of sleep attacks reported by both pt.
groups; no effect on C.
Modafinil was effective for reducing EDS in pts. with N or IH.
Becker, P. M. et al. (2004); 4; N.
Modafinil Mood/Quality of Life, safety/
AE
A 6-week open label multicenter trial to
determine if Modafinil reduced fatigue,
improved mood and health related quality of life compared to
baseline/cohort study/ no blinding
Clinic population/ Pharmaceutical/
Expert-Assigned or Selected Grps
151/123/39 [18- 68]/46%
NA 200 or 400 mg, optimal dose determined at end of second
week and participant remained on that dose for duration of the
trial/q day, 1 hour before or after first meal
Modafinil significantly improved health related quality
of life component summary scores on the SF-36, and
significantly improved, scores in all domains of the POMS.
Treatment with Modafinil significantly improved health related quality of life as assessed by SF-36
and all POMS-associated factors, in comparison to abstinence from treatment.
Black 2006; 1; N.
Modafinil, sodium oxybate/Placebo
Daytime Sleepiness
(Subjective), Daytime
Sleepiness (Objective),
Mood/Quality of Life
Characterization of the efficacy of
sodium oxybate as a single agent, or in combination with modafinil, for the
treatment of EDS in narcolepsy.
44 sites in the United States, Canada, the
Czech Republic, France, Germany, the Netherlands,
Switzerland, and the United Kingdom/ Pharmaceutical/
Expert-Assigned or Selected Grps
278/222/Sodium oxybate group:
35.1 +/- 12.9/52%; modafinil
group: 38.9+/- 15.6/50.8%;
sodium oxybate/ modafinil
group: 38.9+/- 15.9/46.3%.
Crossover study/41.0+/- 13.4/43.6%
Usual modafinil dose between 200-600 mg/day. Sodium
oxybate 6 g nightly for the initial 4-weeks of the double- blind study then increased to 9g nightly for the duration of the study./Following a
2-week single-blind baseline period during which patients took their customary doses of modafinil (200 to 600 mg/day)
and nightly placebo sodium oxybate solution (equally divided doses at bedtime
and then 2.5-4 hours later), patients were randomized in a double-blind fashon to 1 of 4 groups: Group 1: placebo sodium oxybate + placebo
modafinil, Group 2: sodium oxybate + placebo modafinil,
Group 3: placebo sodium oxybate + modafinil, Group 4: sodium oxybate + modafinil.
EDS as defined by the MWT which was performed following nocturnal PSG at visits 2, 3, 4, and 5 according to validated
standards (Four 20 min tests 2 hours apart).
Sodium oxybate and modafinil are both effective for treating EDS in narcolepsy, producing additive
effects when used together. Sodium oxybate is beneficial as both monotherapy and adjunctive therapy for the treatment of EDS in narcolepsy.
Dauvilliers, Y. et al. (2002); 4; N.
Modafinil EDS (subj) GCIS
To determine if the COMT genotype
affects the response to treatment with
Modafinil and if the differences in COMT genotype distribution
between men and women is associated
with response to Modafinil/cohort study/single blind
NR/private foundation, Univ
Hospital of Geneva/ Expert-Assigned or
Selected Grps
84/84/ 48.21 +19.25 [14- 80]/61.9%
NA W 262.5 ± 16.65 mg M 343.34 ± 16.17mg
52/84 classified as good responders; 25/84 classified
as moderate responders; 7/84 classified as non responders to Modafinil;An equal number
of men and women were categorized as good responders;
optimal daily dosage of Modafinil was significantly lower in women than men
(262 mg compared to 343 mg); optimal daily dose somewhat affected by COMT genotype.
91% of narcolepsy patients showed moderate to good response to Modafinil; response to Modafinil is affected by COMT genotypes, which suggests that Modafinil affects dopaminergic transmission.
SLEEP, Vol. 30, No. 12, 2007 S2
Author (yr); Oxford Grade; Patient Group.
Intervention/ Comparison Intervention
Outcomes Measures
Study Description/ Study type/Blinding
Method
Recruitment Source/ Funding
Source/ Recruitment
# patients enrolled/
completed/ Patients’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
# controls enrolled/ completed/Controls’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
Dose/Dosing Strategy Primary Study Outcomes Conclusions
Group (2005); 1; N, C.
Sodium oxybate/ Placebo
Improve Cataplexy
8 week DB PC trial to evaluate sodium
oxybate in the treatment of cataplexy/ Randomized Control Trial/Double-Blind
Testing
42 sleep clinics/ Pharmaceutical/
Expert-Assigned or Selected Grps
228/209/40.5 [16- 75]/34.6%
NA 4.5 g, 6.0 g, 9.0 g (all in 2 divided doses) after
washout from anticataplectic medications/All patients
on active drug started with 4.5 g per night; one group
continued this dose for duration of study; a second
group increased to 6.0 g after a week and continued this dose for duration of study ; a third
group increased to 6.0 g after a week, then 7.5 g after a week, then 9.0 g and continued this
dose for duration of study
Significant reduction in weekly cataplexy with nightly doses of 4.5, 6.0 and 9.0 g sodium oxybate for 8 weeks, with
median decreases of 57.0, 65.0 and 87.7%, respectively; overall reduction of cataplexy greater at
8 weeks than at 4 weeks.
Sodium oxybate highly effective in treating cataplexy in a time and dose-dependent manner;
weekly titration appears to be well-tolerated.
Group, 2005; 1; N.
Sodium oxybate/ Placebo
Daytime Sleepiness
(Subjective), Daytime
Sleepiness (Objective),
Mood/Quality of Life, Safety/
Adverse Events
A multi-center randomized, double
blind, placebo controlled study evaluating the
effectiveness of sodium oxybate on sleepiness
in narcolepsy pts with cataplexy over
8 weeks/Randomized Control Trial/Double-
Blind Testing
Subset of narcolepsy subjects in a mulit- center drug trial/
Expert-Assigned or Selected Grps/ Pharmaceutical
228/209 (401 pts originally entered a larger ongoing trial but only 228 entered the double blind phase)/40.5
(16-75) 34.6%
NA 4.5, 6 or 9g/Two equally divided doses taken
immediately before bed and 2.5-4 hours later; all pts in
treatment groups started at 4.5 but 2/3 were then titrated up to either their assigned group of
6g or 9g
ESS and CGI showed dose related significant improvement
at all doses. MWT latencies showed significant increases only at 4.5 and 9 g dose (1.75
and 10 min respectively). Inadvertent sleep attacks
showed dose related decrease but only significant for 6 and 9g
Sodium oxybate when taken with other traditional stimulants significantly decreases daytime
sleepiness in a dose related manner as measured by ESS and number of sleep attacks. MWT scores are also significantly improved for the 4.5 and 9g dose
with 9g showing a robust increase.
Guilleminault, C.et al (2000); 3; N with C.
Modafinil EDS (subj) Four groups of N pts. with EDS were
switched to Modafinil from their current medication: 1) no
medication regimen (naïve); 2) only
stimulant medications; 3) only anticataplectic
medications; 4) both stimulant and
anticataplectic medications/cohort study/no blinding
Three sleep clinics, two in Europe and one in the United States/NR/Expert-
Assigned or Selected Grps
60/60; 31 from USA; 29 from Europe/ 41±18 [19-68]/55%
NA 100-600mg/after withdrawal, pts. were switched to 100
mg of Modafinil; dosage was increased by 100-mg every 3 days; most common dosage
was 400-mg divided into two dosages given morning and
noon
Naive pts. accepted Modafinil best; pts. withdrawn
from amphetamine had the most problems and failure to
withdraw; use of a progressive withdrawal protocol may
reduce problems; Venlafaxine hydrochloride combined well
with Modafinil to control cataplectic attacks.
Modafinil is an appropriate medication to counteract daytime sleepiness, but caution is warranted in switching from amphetamine to
Modafinil in some pts., and presence of C may warrant both Modafinil in combination with
anticataplectic agent.
SLEEP, Vol. 30, No. 12, 2007 S3
Author (yr); Oxford Grade; Patient Group.
Intervention/ Comparison Intervention
Outcomes Measures
Study Description/ Study type/Blinding
Method
Recruitment Source/ Funding
Source/ Recruitment
# patients enrolled/
completed/ Patients’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
# controls enrolled/ completed/Controls’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
Dose/Dosing Strategy Primary Study Outcomes Conclusions
Harsh 2006; 1; N.
Armodafinil/Placebo Daytime Sleepiness
(Subjective), Daytime
Sleepiness (Objective),
Safety/ Adverse Events
12 week DB RCT with placebo control to assess efficacy and safety of armodafinil
in patients with narcolepsy
47 centers in 6 countries/
pharmaceutical industry/Expert-
Assigned or Selected Grps
132/105 (65/49 for 150 mg group;
67/56 for 250 mg group)/40.4 +12.5/44% for
150mg dose group; 35.0+12.5/37% for 250 mg dose group
64/55/39.2+12.0/51% 150 mg or 250 mg /Once daily for 12 weeks
At final visit, mean MWT SL increased 1.3, 2.6 and 1.9 min from baseline in the 150 mg, 250 mg and armodafinil
combined groups, respectively; proportion of patients with at least minimal improvement in CGI-C was significantly
higher for 150 mg, 250 mg and armodafinil combined groups
compared to placebo at all time points (p<0.0001); ESS, global fatigue rating per BFI,
some measures of attention and memory per CDR improved
with armodafinil compared to placebo; naps and unintentional sleep periods were reduced per diaries in armodafinil groups
compared to placebo; no change in cataplexy with armodafinil;
no adverse effects on PSG parameters with armodafinil.
In patients with narcolepsy, armodafinil at doses of 150 or 250 mg/day significantly improved wakefulness during the day, CGI-C and some
measures of memory and attention compared to placebo.
Hogl, (2002); 2; PD.
Modafinil/placebo EDS (subj), EDS (obj)
This cross-over study was designed to
test the efficacy of Modafinil compared
to placebo for the treatment of increased daytime sleepiness in pts. with PD/cohort study/double blind
Clinic population/ Pharmaceutical/
Expert-Assigned or Selected Grps
15/12/65.0 ±7.6/75%
NA 100 mg the first week of treatment and 200 mg the
second week/q am
Although there was significant improvement of subjective
sleepiness (ESS scores) there was no improvement in
objective measures of sleepiness (MWT).
Modafinil produces significant improvement in subjective alertness, but not objective alertness in
patients with PD.
Ivanenko, A. et al. (2003); 4; N, IH.
Modafinil EDS (subj), EDS (obj), safety/AE
The effects of Modafinil on daytime sleepiness in children
with IH or N was assessed over 15.6 + 7.8 months./cohort study/no blinding
Clinic population/ NR/Expert-Assigned
or Selected Grps
13 / 13/ 11.0 + 5.3 years, [2 – 18]/
46%
NA Mean dose = 346 ± 120 mg/ typically in the morning and
at noon
Parents reported improvements in daytime sleep attacks, EDS, and daytime naps; Mood and academic performance also improved with Modafinil;
average MSL on the MSLT increased with treatment
(10.2 + 4.8 min) as compared to baseline (6.6 + 3.7); one child failed to improve with Modafinil and three showed
partial improvement requiring an additional medication/ 12
children respondeded.
Modafinil produced a modest but significant decrease in sleepiness in children and appears to be
safe and well tolerated in this population.
Lammers (1991); 2; N.
Ritanserin/Placebo Daytime Sleepiness
(Subjective), Daytime
Sleepiness (Objective),
Improve Cataplexy,
Mood/Quality of Life, Safety/
Adverse Events
Randomized double- blind placebo
controlled trial of Ritanserin, a potent long-acting 5-HT2
receptor blocker, in 28 narcolepsy patients./ Randomized Control Trial/Double-Blind
Testing
NS, presumably expert assigned./
Private Foundation/ Expert-Assigned or
Selected Grps
28/28 ( 16 received Ritanserin & 12
received placebo)/ 43 (range 16-67)
NA 2.5 milligrams/Following a 1-week “baseline” period,
Ritanserin was dosed twice a day for 4 weeks in addition to their usual medical regimen
for narcolepsy
Ritanserin reduced subjective EDS and increase feeling of refreshed in morning. There
was no effect on MSLT latency, cataplexy or sleep attacks.
Ritanserin, as “add on” therapy for narcolepsy, reduces subjective EDS and increases the feeling of being refreshed in the morning. There was no effect on objective sleepiness (MSLT mean sleep latency), frequency of cataplexy or sleep attacks,
or the mood rating scale. Ritanserin increased slow-wave sleep (stage 3+4), and reduced wake
after sleep onset.
SLEEP, Vol. 30, No. 12, 2007 S4
Author (yr); Oxford Grade; Patient Group.
Intervention/ Comparison Intervention
Outcomes Measures
Study Description/ Study type/Blinding
Method
Recruitment Source/ Funding
Source/ Recruitment
# patients enrolled/
completed/ Patients’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
# controls enrolled/ completed/Controls’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
Dose/Dosing Strategy Primary Study Outcomes Conclusions
Larrosa, O. et al. (2001); 4; N with C.
Reboxetine EDS (subj and obj)
using ESS, VAS, MSLT/
Catplexy subscale of Ullanlinna N Scale/
Mood (Beck Depression Inventory)/ Quality of Life, TST, safety/AE
Pre-post test study to determine if reboxitine
was effective for reducing EDS and C
compared to baseline/ cohort study/no
blinding
Clinic Population/ Pharmaceutical/
Expert-Assigned or Selected Grps
12 enrolled, 12 complet-
ed/36.6±11.7/50%
NA 10 mg per day/6 mg q am, 4 mg at lunchtime
Roboxitine was effective in reducing all measures of
subjective sleepiness including ESS, VAS sleepiness as well as objective EDS based on
pre- and post MSLT data as well as C subscale of the Ullanlinna N Scale; Roboxitine increased % stage 1 and REM latency at night, with decreased #
SOREM’s on MSLT; no change in BDI; performance still below
healthy normal controls.
Preliminary results demonstrate improvement of subjective sleepiness and reduction in C; effect
on MSLT less consistent in those with mean sleep latency < 6 mins.
Mamelak, M. et al. (2004); 4; N.
Sodium oxybate EDS (subj), EDS (obj), Safety/AEs,
TST
The authors investigated the effects of escalating doses of
sodium oxybate on sleep architecture and daytime functioning/
Cohort Study/No Blinding
4 clinical trial sites/ Pharmaceutical
29/25/52.6 + 8.8 years, [range NR]/
28% male
NA 4.5 g/night, 6.0 g/night, 7.5 g/ night, 9.0 g/night/ One-half of total dose taken twice nightly. Dose escalated every 2 weeks following a 4-week period of
4.5 g/night
Sodium oxybate produced dose- related increases in SWS and delta power; daytime SOL on
MWT increased; and nocturnal awakenings decreased. The ESS
score decreased and all scales of the narcolepsy symptom
questionnaire improved.
Sodium oxybate produced dose-related improvements in narcolepsy symptoms.
Mayer (2003); 2; N.
Ritanserin/ placebo EDS (subj), EDS (obj), Safety/AEs,
TST
The effect of ritanserin (a 5-HT2
antagonist) on daytime sleepiness and
daytime functioning in narcoleptics was
assessed/RCT/Double- Blind Testing
NR 134 enrolled /122 completed/Placebo group: 40.9 + 14.2, 5 mg group: 43.2 + 12.5; 10 mg group: 43.2 + 15.0. range:
16 – 65 years; 62.7% male
NA Ritanserin 5mg or 10 mg or placebo was taken once daily after breakfast for 28 days; subjects were allowed to
continue receiving their usual medication regimes
Subjective symptoms: 5 mg improved “refreshed” feeling in am., sleep attacks, daytime sleepiness, work & activities, social life and partners rated
improvements in daytime sleepiness and work &
activities. 10 mg improved sleep quality and sleep attacks.
Ritanserin had very little effect on improving narcolepsy symptoms. While ritanserin did
improve some parameters of PSG-recorded sleep, corresponding subjective improvements were not found. Ritanserin should not be used as a primary
stimulant or hypnotic.
Mitler (2000); 4; N.
Modafinil/NA Daytime Sleepiness
(Subjective), Daytime
Sleepiness (Objective),
Safety/ Adverse Events
long-term (40 weeks) open label efficacy and safety study of modafinil/Cohort or
Ecological Studies/No Blinding
Patients who had participated in
one of two prior clinical studies/ Pharmaceutical/
Expert-Assigned or Selected Grps
478/341 (9.0% discontinued treatment due to AE; 11.5% discontinued
treatment due to lack of efficacy)/42 +/- 13 (18-65)/46%
NA 200, 300, 400 mg; 1st group: 200, 300 or 400 mg daily at
discretion of investigator; 2nd group: 200 mg/day for one week, then 400 mg/day for
one week, then either 200 mg or 400 mg daily for duration of study at the discretion of
the investigator/NR
CGI-Change: 80% of patients improved, 10% unchanged, 10% worsened; mean ESS: improved from 16.5 to 12.4; QoL scores
improved in 6 of 8 SF-36 domains.
Modafinil (most patients received 400 mg) significantly reduced EDS and generally
improved QoL in patients with N; the medication was generally well-tolerated and there was no
indication of tolerance.
SLEEP, Vol. 30, No. 12, 2007 S5
Author (yr); Oxford Grade; Patient Group.
Intervention/ Comparison Intervention
Outcomes Measures
Study Description/ Study type/Blinding
Method
Recruitment Source/ Funding
Source/ Recruitment
# patients enrolled/
completed/ Patients’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
# controls enrolled/ completed/Controls’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
Dose/Dosing Strategy Primary Study Outcomes Conclusions
Moldofsky (2000); 2; N.
Modafinil/placebo Daytime Sleepiness Subjective
and Objective, Mood/Quality of Life, Safety/ Adverse Event
16 week open label study with modafinil
and followed by 2 week RCT with placebo control to evaluate continued
efficiacy and safety in narcoleptic patients
taking modafinil (participants had
completed a prior 6 week RCT crosover study)/Randomized
Control Trial/Double- Blind Testing – for
RCT portion and No Blinding – open label
portion
Subjects who completed prior
clinical trial with modafinil/ Pharmaceutical/
Expert-Assigned or Selected Grps
69/63 for open label portion;
30/28 for 2 week RCT/45 +/- 16 / 33.3% for open
label portion
33/33 for 2 week RCT/ns/ns for 2 week
RCT portion
200-400 mg daily for most patients; 1 patient took 150
mg daily; 2 patients took 500 mg daily/Open label portion:
patients started with 200 mg in a.m. and 100 mg at noon; dose then adjusted up or down by 100 mg increments based on clinical assessment; patients randomized to modafinil arm during 2 week RCT portion
continued their individualized dose from open label portion
At end of 2nd week RCT portion, MWT mean SL were
70% longer on modafinil than on placebo (p=0.009); in patients switched from
modafinil to placebo MWT SL decreased by 37% (p=0.006),
compared to decrease in 7% in group remaining on modafinil
(p=0.35); 24.3% of MWT sessions ended without sleep
on modafinil compared to 6.1% on placebo (p<0.001); few
changes on PSG measures of sleep architecture; compared to placebo, modafinil reduced total number of reported episodes of severe somnolence plus sleep attacks plus naps (p=0.017);
ESS scores lower on modafinil (13.2+/-5.7) compared to
placebo (15.4+/-5.8) at end of study (p=0.023); no changes in FCRRT; no changes in POMS
Modafinil continued to be an effective and well- tolerated drug after 16 weeks of treatement of EDS
in patients with narcolepsy
Nieves, A. V. et al. (2002); 4; PD.
Modafinil/none ESS and Unified PD
Rating Scale part III
a 4-week open-label trial of Modafinil
in 10 patients with PD, who also had EDS and were on
various dopaminergic drugs/Cohort Study/No
Blinding
Movement Disorders Center/NR
10/9/≥18, [66.9+_ 7]/ 80%
NA Titrated as needed from 100- 400mg/day, not to exceed 400mg/day for 4 weeks/1
dose of 100mg “early in the morning,” and were allowed
to increase the dose by 100 mg every week up to a maximum
of 400 mg divided in two doses
Mean ESS score at baseline of patients completing the study (n = 9) was 14.22 (± 3.03) and post-study (on an average dose
of 172 mg/day), mean ESS score was 6.0 (± 4.87). Unified PD Rating Scale scores were
NOT affected.
Modafinil is effective in reducing subjective EDS in patients with PD treated with dopaminergic drugs — it did not seem to worsen parkinsonian
symptoms and may allow further increase in dopaminergic therapy in patients previously unable
to tolerate certain dosages.
Ondo, W. G. et al. (2005); 2; PD.
Modafinil/ Placebo EDS (subj), EDS (obj), Safety/AEs
Mood/Quality of Life
Study designed to test the efficacy of
modafinil in reducing the symptoms of
EDS in patients with PD/RCT/Double-Blind
Testing
Clinic population at a tertiary
referral center/ Pharmaceutical
40/37[64.8 ± 11.]/3/72-5%
NA 200 mg/day or 400 mg/day/ half the dosage taken after
waking and the other half at noon
Modafinil did not reduce EDS (subj) or EDS (obj).
Modafinil is not effective for reducing EDS experienced by patients with PD.
Poppe (2003); 4; Recurrent Hypersomnia.
Lithium carbonate/NS Frequency and duration of
hypersomnic episodes
Case series of 5 patients with Kleine-
Levin Syndrome (KLS) treated with
lithium prophylaxis/ Case Studies/ No
Blinding
Children’s Hospital, Technical University Dresden/NA/Expert- Assigned or Selected
Grps
5/5/13 to 17 years old; /60% male
NA Lithium retard tablet at a dose that maintained serum levels
between 0.6-0.9 mmol/l./ Between 20 and 36 months of
therapy
Influence of lithium therapy on frequency and/or duration of
KLS episodes.
The risk of episodes under treatment with lithium dropped from 100% to 93% per preceeding month
of therapy (Odds Ratio =0.09; 95% confidence interval 0.89-0.96; p<0.001). Quantitatively, lithium therapy reduces the mean duration of
episodes by 19% (p=0.012).
SLEEP, Vol. 30, No. 12, 2007 S6
Author (yr); Oxford Grade; Patient Group.
Intervention/ Comparison Intervention
Outcomes Measures
Study Description/ Study type/Blinding
Method
Recruitment Source/ Funding
Source/ Recruitment
# patients enrolled/
completed/ Patients’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
# controls enrolled/ completed/Controls’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
Dose/Dosing Strategy Primary Study Outcomes Conclusions
Rammohan (2002); 2; MS.
Modafinil/ Placebo Fatigue Severity Scale,
modified fatigue impact
scale; ESS; a visual
analogue scale for fatigue (VAS-F)
9-week, single blind, pilot study designed
to assess efficacy and safety of modafinil for the treatment of fatigue in patients with (MS)./ Cohort Study/Single
Blinding
NS/Pharmaceutical 72/65/44 (23- 61)/75%
NA 200mg/day; 400mg/day/All patients received placebo
during weeks 1–2, 200 mg/day modafinil during weeks 3–4, 400 mg/day modafinil during
weeks 5–6, and placebo during weeks 7–9.
200 mg/day Dose: compared to placebo run-in, sig improvement
in fatigue was demonstrated — mean scores post-treatment
were: FSS, 4.7 vs 5.5 for placebo (p<0.001); MFIS,
37.7 vs 44.7 (p<0.001); and VAS-F, 5.4 vs 4.5 (p=0.003).
400mg/day Dose: Fatigue scores not significantly improved
versus placebo run in. Mean ESS scores were significantly improved (p<0.001) with 200
mg/day modafinil (7.2) and 400 mg/day (7.0) vs the score at
baseline (9.5).
200mg/day of modafinil improves fatigue in MS patients. Mean ESS scores were significantly improved with 200mg/day and 400mg/day in
comparison with baseline scores.
Rogers, A. E. et al. (2001); 2; N.
Naps, regular schedule,combo
naps/regular bedtimes/ Other Treatment and
Schedules
Narcolepsy Symptom
Status Questionnaire (NSSQ); 24
hr ambulatory PSG
monitoring
To determine if the combination
of scheduled sleep periods and stimulant medications was more effective than stimulant therapy alone/RCT/No
Blinding
Clinic population/ Oxford Medilog Inc
29/29/43.7 ±13.9 [18-64], 41.4%
NA NA Only the combination of naps and scheduled bedtimes reduced
the amount of unscheduled daytime sleep compared
to stimulant therapy alone (baseline).
Although the scheduled naps are often recommended, they were not more effective than
stimulant medications alone. Only the combination of scheduled naps and regular bedtimes was more effective in reducing unscheduled daytime sleep episodes than stimulant stimulant therapy alone.
Saletu, M. et al. (2004); 2; N.
Modafinil/ Placebo EDS (subj), EDS (obj)
This study examined narcoleptics and
normal controls in a crossover study of a three-week fixed
titration of modafinil (200, 300, 400 mg) and
placebo to identify brain regions
associated with vigilance in
untreated and modafinil-treated
narcoleptic patients by means
of low resolution brain electromagnetic
tomography (LORETA)/RCT/
Double-Blind Testing
NS/Pharmaceutical 16/15/[39.1±13.3], 62.5%
16/16[/37.1±13.5]/ 62.5%
200, 300, 400 mg modafinil (3 week fixed titration schedule)
The EEG differences between groups were characterized by significant decrease in alpha-2 power, mainly in the frontal, temporal and parietal areas of
the right hemisphere, along with a global decrease in beta power, also accentuated over the right cortical brain areas. ESS score decreased from median 14.5
after 3 weeks of placebo to 12.5 after 3 weeks of modafinil. In
the MSLT latency to sleep stage S1 significantly increased from a median of 3.2 min after three
weeks of placebo to 6.6 min after three weeks of modafinil
(p<0.05).
Modafinil is associated with improvement in subjective and objective daytime
sleepiness;LORETA provided evidence of a functional deterioration of the
fronto-temporo-parietal network of the right- hemispheric vigilance system in narcolepsy
and a therapeutic effect of modafinil on the left hemisphere, which is less affected by the disease.
Schwartz (2003); 1; N.
Modafinil/placebo Daytime Sleepiness
(Subjective), Daytime
Sleepiness (Objective),
Safety/ Adverse Events
Double-blind, randomized,
multicenter study of 3 Modafinil
dosing regimens in patients with a prior positive response to the medication who
were dissatisfied with late-afternoon or
evening sleepiness./ Randomized Control Trial/Double-Blind
Testing
NR/Pharmaceutical/ Expert-Assigned or
Selected Grps
32/NR/43 +/- 12 [28-61]/27 for 200 mg QD group; 47 +/- 16 [28-71]/64 for 400 mg QD group; 39 +/- 15 [19-60]/50 for
400 mg split dose group
NR/NR/Crossover study design; one week of modafinil
washout followed by randomization to one of 3 dosing regimens for a 3 week period
200 mg QD; 400 mg QD; 200 mg BID/All groups took 200 mg at 0700 hrs + placebo at noon for 1 week; group A continued this regimen for 2 more weeks; group B took
400 mg at 0700 and placebo at noon for 2 more weeks; group
C took 200 mg at 0700 and 200 mg at noon for 2 more
weeks
CGI-change improved in all groups compared to baseline; ESS scores improved in all groups (trend toward more
improvement in 400 mg QD compared to 200 mg QD, but not statistically significant); mean MWT sleep latency
improved in all groups (more improvement in both 400 mg
groups than in 200 mg group); improvement in evening
sleepiness was greater in the split-dose group.
A split-dose 400 mg regimen is superior to once daily dosing for sustaining wakefulness throughout
the entire waking day.
SLEEP, Vol. 30, No. 12, 2007 S7
Author (yr); Oxford Grade; Patient Group.
Intervention/ Comparison Intervention
Outcomes Measures
Study Description/ Study type/Blinding
Method
Recruitment Source/ Funding
Source/ Recruitment
# patients enrolled/
completed/ Patients’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
# controls enrolled/ completed/Controls’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
Dose/Dosing Strategy Primary Study Outcomes Conclusions
Schwartz, J. R. (2005); 1; N.
Modafinil This study was designed to determine
if a split dose of modafinil would be more effective than
a single morning dose for reducing
sleepiness in the late afternoon and evening/ Randomized Control Trial/Double-Blind
Testing
Clinic population/ Pharmaceutical
56/56/42 years [18-70 years, with one 14 year old],
52% male
NA 200 mg, 400 mg, and 600 mg/200 mg q am (0700), 400 mg q am (0700), 200 mg BID (0700 and 1200), and 400 mg q am (0700) with 200 mg at
noon
Significantly higher percentages of patients receiving the split dosage regimen were able to sustain wakefulness on MWT during the late afternoon and evening, as compared only to
the 200mg once daily regimen.
Split dosing regimens for modafinil(≥400mg) are more effective than 200 mg once daily dosing for
maintaining alertness in the late afternoon and early evening, but significant differences were not noted with respect to 400 mg once daily dosing.
Schwartz, J. R. et al. (2003); 4; N.
Modafinil EDS (subj), EDS (obj)
Efficacy of 200 – 400 mg of modafinil
was assessed in narcoleptics reporting dissatisfaction with
psychostimulant treatment taken to alleviate daytime sleepiness/NR/No
Blinding
20 sleep centers around the
United States/ Pharmaceutical
151 enrolled / 123 completed/Mean age 39, range: 18 – 68 years; 46%
male
NA 200 mg or 400 mg/There was a 2 week washout period from
all stimulant medications. Then, subjects received
modafinil 200 mg for first week, then 200 mg or 400
mg for weeks 2 – 6 depending on best dose for individual
subject.
Compared to a post-washout baseline, all doses of modafinil
improved the ESS score and CGI-C scores. 70% of the
patients were taking 400 mg modafinil daily at the end of the
study.
Modafinil was an effective and well-tolerated treatment for daytime sleepiness in narcoleptics
previously treated with and reporting dissatisfaction with stimulant medications
Schwartz, J. R. et al. (2004); 1; N.
Modafinil (400 mg qam and 200 mg q noon vs. 400 mg qam)/placebo
EDS (subj and obj), AE, and Executive Functioning using ESS, CGI, MWT, and WCST
This double-blind study assessed if an additional afternoon
dose of modafinil (600 mg total daily
dose) would be more effective than a single
morning dose (400 mg) for reducing afternoon and evening sleepiness/
randomized control trial/Double-Blind
Testing
Expert assigned or selected groups from a clinic population/
pharmaceutical industry
24/24/400mg treatment group (40; 18-61), 600
mg treatment group (45; 14-60)/
58%
NA 400 mg modafinil and 600 mg modafinil/400 mg q am
(0700); and split-dose (400mg qam, 200mg qnoon)
A significantly higher percentage of patients receiving
the higher split dose of modafinil were able to remain
awake during the late afternoon and evening than patients
on single dosage (either 200 or 400 mg q am). Executive
functioning was also improved.
Higher, split doses of modafinil were more effective than single morning doses of modafinil for improving alertness in the late afternoon and
evening.
Talbot (2003); 1; Myotonic Dystrophy.
Modafinil/placebo EDS (subj and obj) using
ESS, SF36, PSG, MWT
A randomized double- blind crossover study of modafinil versus
placebo for the treatment of EDS in
patients with Myotonic Distrophy/randomized control trial/Double-
Blind Testing
Expert assigned or selected groups from a clinic population/
pharmaceutical industry
20/19/43 [18- 65]/68%
Within subject design 100 mg, 200 mg/ 100 mg on days 1-5, followed by 200 mg
on days 6-28
Non-significant reduction in ESS. SL on MWT was
prolonged by treatment (31.7- 40min, p=.006).
Modafinil at 100 and 200 mg showed a non- significant reduction in median ESS, however median SL on MWT score was prolonged by
treatment.
U.S. Xyrem Multicenter Study Group (2004); 1; N C.
Sodium oxybate/placebo C improvement,
AE using diaries
This double blind treatment withdrawal study examining the long-term efficacy of sodium oxybate on
cataplexy/randomized control trial/Double-
Blinding
Expert assigned or selected groups /pharmaceutical
industry
56/55/≥16 [47.7]/42%
NA Sodium oxybate ranging from 3.0 to 9.0 g nightly/
sodium oxybate or placebo was administered in equally divided doses immediately
upon going to bed and again 2.5–4 hr later
During the 2-week double-blind phase, the abrupt cessation of sodium oxybate therapy in the placebo patients resulted in a
significant increase in the number of cataplexy attacks
(median change = 21; P 0.001) compared to patients who
remained on sodium oxibate.
This randomized controlled trial provides evidence supporting the long-term efficacy of sodium oxybate for the treatment of cataplexy. There
appeared to be no evidence of rebound cataplexy upon abrupt discontinuation of treatment, nor any
symptoms of frank withdrawal.
SLEEP, Vol. 30, No. 12, 2007 S8
Author (yr); Oxford Grade; Patient Group.
Intervention/ Comparison Intervention
Outcomes Measures
Study Description/ Study type/Blinding
Method
Recruitment Source/ Funding
Source/ Recruitment
# patients enrolled/
completed/ Patients’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
# controls enrolled/ completed/Controls’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
Dose/Dosing Strategy Primary Study Outcomes Conclusions
U.S. Xyrem® Multicenter Study Group (2003); 4; N C.
Sodium oxybate/14-21 day baseline period
EDS (subj), C improvement, AE using CGI,
ESS, logs
This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of five different doses
(3-9 g) of sodium oxybate during a
multicenter 12-month open-label trial/cohort
study/No Blinding
Expert assigned or selected groups
from clinical populations ≥ 18
yo/pharmaceutical industry
118/80/43.7 [18- 79]/43.5%
NA 3 mg, 4.5 mg, 6 mg, 7.5 mg, or 9 mg of sodium oxybate
nightly/initial dose at bedtime and second dose 2.5-4 hours
later
Cataplexy episodes decreased signficantly the first month
(compared to baseline numbers) in all treatment groups, and
continued to remain at a lower level throughout the 12 month trial period. ESS decreased at
1-month for all tx groups except 4.5 g (n=6).
3 to 9 g of sodium oxybate produced significant and long-term reductions in cataplexy and
subjective daytime sleepiness.
US Xyrem Multi-center Study Group (2002); 1; N.
Sodium oxybate/placebo EDS (subj and obj)/Catplexy and AE using
ESS, CGI, and logs/number of nocturnal awakenings/ HH and SP
This multi-site double- blind trial investigated the effects of 3 doses of sodium oxybate on the treatment of
narcolepsy symptoms/ randomized control trial/Double-Blind
Testing
Random selection from sleep disorders
centers in the United States/ pharnaceutical
industry
136/120/43.1/ 41.9% male
NA 3 g, 6 g, 9 g/half at bedtime, the other half 2.5 – 4 hrs later;
dose was started after an extended washout period of
other anticataplectic drugs (as long as 6 weeks)
The 9 g dose reduced the # of cataplexy attacks compared to placebo. CGI exhibited
change from baseline at 9 g dose. Inadvertent naps/sleep
attacks reduced at both 6 g and 9 g doses. 9 g dose decreased
nocturnal awakenings.
Sodium oxybate is an effective and safe treatment for EDS associated with narcolepsy, particularly at
the 9 g dose.
Van der Meche (1994); 4; Myotonic Dystrophy.
Methylphenidate/NA EDS (subj) using a
“standard questionnaire”
This unblinded study evaluated if EDS in
MD is caused by OSA, and if not whether or not methylphenidate
would reduce the hypersomnia/case series/No Blinding
Expert assigned or selected groups
/Netherlands
22/median age for males 36, females 50 [16-67]/63.6%
male
NA 10 mg/10 mg daily increased to 10-20 mg BID
Methylphenidate produced increased daytime alertness
in 7 of 11 patients/3 of the 17 patients tested had OSA.
Methylphenidate is effective in reducing hypersomnia associated with Myotonic Distrophy.
Weaver (2006); 1; N, C.
Sodium Oxybate /Placebo
Mood/Quality of Life
Randomized, double blind, placebo-
controlled parallel- group clinical trial
of 285 patients with narcolepsy treated with
sodium oxybate (4.5 to 9 g/day in divided doses) for 4 weeks
following withdrawl of their baseline anti-
cataplexy medications. The effect on quality of life was assessed with Functional Outcomes
of Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ)./Randomized Control Trial/Double-
Blind Testing
Outpatient facility of 42 sleep centers
in the United States, Canada, and Europe/
Pharmaceutical/ Expert-Assigned or
Selected Grps
217 randomnized/181 intent to treat/4.5
g/day 41.8+/- 16.7/32.8; 6 g/day 39.2+/- 15.9/37.9;
9 g/day 39.9+/- 12.5/34.6
68 randomized/47 intent to treat/Placebo
40.8+/- 15.5/28.8
4.5, 6 or 9 g/day in divided doses. First dose QHS, second dose 2.5 to 4 hours later./The
first 14 days was a lead in period, followed by a 21 day
withdrawl from anticataplectic therapy, then a 5 to 18 day
washout period, concluding with randomization to the
2 treatment arms and doses of 4.5, 6 or 9 g/day of
sodium oxybate. Participants randomized to sodium oxybate all received 7 days of the 4.5 g dose, followed by titration to their final dose according
to the randomization scheme. Participants on active
treatment were on study medication for at least 7 days before proceeding to the next
dose
When compared to placebo, the 9 g/day group
demonstrated improvement in all components of the FOSQ
except the intimacy and sexual relationships scale. The 6g/day
dose demonstrated improvement in 2 of 5 subscales. A dose
effect was evident for the total score and all FOSQ subscales except the intimacy and sexual relationships scale. There was no significant change at the 4.5
g/day dose.
Compared with placebo-treated patients, participants treated with doses of sodium oxybate
of 6 g/day and 9g/day experienced significant improvements in functional status as measured by
the FOSQ.
SLEEP, Vol. 30, No. 12, 2007 S9
Author (yr); Oxford Grade; Patient Group.
Intervention/ Comparison Intervention
Outcomes Measures
Study Description/ Study type/Blinding
Method
Recruitment Source/ Funding
Source/ Recruitment
# patients enrolled/
completed/ Patients’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
# controls enrolled/ completed/Controls’ Age + SD [range]/
%male
Dose/Dosing Strategy Primary Study Outcomes Conclusions
Zifko (2002); 4; MS.
Modafinil/NA EDS (subj), QOL, AE
using ESS, Fatigue Severity
Scale, clinical outcome
rating, and patient self- appraisal in
fatigue
This unblinded study assessed the
tolerability, optimal dose, and efficacy of modafinil in patients
with multiple sclerosis and fatigue and
EDS/cohort study/No Blinding
Expert assigned or selected gropus
from 2 centers specializing in MS/ governent sources,
pharmaceutical industry
50/47/40.4 +/- 10.3/40% male
NA 50 – 300 mg daily/started at 100 mg daily and increased
to 200 mg or 300 mg daily as needed. Maximum doses were
achieved in 4 weeks or less
Both the Fatigue Severity Scale and ESS decreased significantly
during the 3 months of study. Both the patients’ self-reported
fatigue and the clinicians’ impression of fatigue improved.
Fatigue and sleepiness were significantly improved by modafinil in patients with MS. The drug was
generally well-tolerated.
Abbreviations
N = Narcoplepsy
C = Cataplexy
IH = Idiopathic Hypersomnia
PD = Parkinson disease
MS = Multiple sclerosis
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