Role of Modafinil in the Treatment of Patients With Methamphetamine Dependence; an Update on Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial Publisher



Fard MT¹ ; Mansouri SS² ; Jafari A² ; Vousooghi N^{1, 3} Show Affiliations
Source: Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research Published:2020

Abstract

Purpose: Methamphetamine is a powerful, highly addictive stimulant which affects the central nervous system. Here we evaluated the efficacy of modafinil for the treatment of patients with MA dependence. Methods: A randomized parallel controlled trial study was designed to compare the effectiveness of take-home, self-administered modafinil treatment in the intervention and the controlled group in three months. The primary outcome measurements were severity and duration of craving, and self-reported methamphetamine consumption, which was confirmed by urine drug test. Results: The relapse rate in the intervention group was 40%, and the controlled group was 75%, indicating a decrease in relapse rate of MA in the intervention group. During the three months, the severity and the duration of the drug abuse craving in the intervention group were less than the controlled group. Patients in the intervention group experienced an increase in the retention rate and a decrease in the slip rate. Conclusion: The use of modafinil is not only effective on craving and relapse reduction, but also changes urine drug screens of patients with MA dependence to negative. The modafinil is safely indicated as an absolutely effective medication to reduce withdrawal symptoms and the craving of patients with MA dependence. © Pharmacotherapy Group, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin, Benin City, 300001 Nigeria.