1. Modafinil, a putative central alpha 1
adrenergic agonist, was tested in idiopathic hypersomnia and narcolepsy.
2. Sleep attacks and drowsiness were
significantly decreased in 83% of 18 hypersomniac subjects and 71% of 24
narcoleptics.
3. When cataplectic episodes were not totally
suppressed the association of a low dose of Clomipramine was successful in
improving them.
4. Modafinil, used for at least 3 years in some
patients, produces, in most cases, no peripheric sides effects, does not disturb
night sleep and is never responsible of tolerance of drug dependence.
