Modafinil and unconstrained motor activity in schizophrenia: double-blind crossover placebo-controlled trial

Br J Psychiatry. 2006 Nov:189:461-2. doi: 10.1192/bjp.bp.105.017335.

Abstract

Avolition affects quality of life in chronic schizophrenia. We investigated the effect of modafinil upon unconstrained motor activity in 18 male patients. In a randomised crossover design study, wrist-worn actigraphic monitors were used to objectively record motor activity over a 20 h period. Patients' total activity was significantly greater when given the drug. These data suggest that modafinil increases quantifiable motor behaviour in schizophrenia and may have an impact on avolition.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Benzhydryl Compounds / therapeutic use*
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants / therapeutic use*
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Modafinil
  • Motor Activity / drug effects*
  • Schizophrenia / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Benzhydryl Compounds
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants
  • Modafinil