A Comparison Between the Countermeasures Modafinil and Napping for Maintaining Performance and Alertness Using a Quasi-Experimental Analysis
Abstract
The data from two separate studies were combined in order to statistically compare the efficacy of the wakefulness-promoting substance modafinil to a 2 hours nap for sustaining cognitive skill and psychological mood in helicopter pilots who have been deprived of sleep (other than the nap). Performance data from the Multiattribute Task Battery (MATB) and mood data from the Profile of Mood States (POMS) were analyzed for this comparison. Eighteen subjects' data from the Napping study were merged with six subjects' data from the Modafinil study (the data were collected at similar testing times). Baseline-adjusted difference scores were analyzed. A three-way mixed factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used with one grouping factor (Modafinil study versus Napping study) and two repeated-measures factors -- Condition (Treatment or No Treatment) and Time (specific to each test). The two countermeasures were effective in combating the usual decline in cognitive performance and mood during sleep deprivation, but they were not comparable. It appears that modafinil was superior to naps in maintaining alertness. The subjective mood data indicated that both countermeasures were successful at decreasing fatigue and confusion, and increasing vigor when compared to no intervention at all. However, when comparing modafinil and a nap, modafinil maintained a higher level of vigor and a lower level of fatigue than the nap, particularly in the early morning hours when the circadian dip in alertness is most problematic. The performance data supported the subjective mood findings by showing that, while both strategies attenuated performance losses during sustained wakefulness, modafinil was more efficacious than a nap. This was especially true of reaction time and errors of omission. As with subjective mood, modafinil's superiority was particularly evident in the early morning hours.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA405112
Entities
People
- Jo Lynn Caldwell
- John A. Caldwell Jr.
- Krisit A. Roberts
Organizations
- United States Army Aeromedical Research Lab