Modafinil treatment of opioid-induced sedation.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of modafinil in combating opioid-induced sedation.


METHODS
A 1-year retrospective chart review of all patients receiving modafinil, a wake-promoting agent, to treat opioid-induced sedation. Opioid-induced sedation was measured using Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS).


METHODS
Outpatient, private practice.


METHODS
Eleven adult patients, six female and five male, being treated with opioids for chronic, nonmalignant pain.


RESULTS
A significant decrease was observed between pretreatment and posttreatment ESS measurements during modafinil treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
The results suggest an improvement in opioid-induced sedation in patients treated for nonmalignant pain.
Webster
Lynn
L
Alpine Pain and Addiction Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84107, USA. lynnw@alpinemedical.com
Andrews
Megan
M
Stoddard
Gregory
G
D000328:Adult; D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001559:Benzhydryl Compounds / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006970:Disorders of Excessive Somnolence / Q000139:chemically induced*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008499:Medical Records; D008875:Middle Aged; D000077408:Modafinil; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000701:Analgesics, Opioid; D001559:Benzhydryl Compounds; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D000077408:Modafinil