A recent study conducted at Mass General Brigham in Boston has revealed that the drug solriamfetol, marketed under the brand name Sunosi, can significantly help early morning shift workers maintain alertness and productivity. This finding is particularly relevant for those who start their workday between 03:00 and 07:00, a time when the human brain is typically inclined to sleep.
The research, led by Kirsi-Marja Zitting, emphasizes the challenges faced by workers who begin their shifts at hours when most people are still asleep. Zitting noted, “People who start work between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m. are waking up at a time when the brain is biologically programmed to sleep. That makes staying alert extraordinarily difficult, even when they are highly motivated.”
The clinical trial involved 78 participants who were experiencing excessive sleepiness during their shifts. Researchers assessed how long these individuals could remain awake in a controlled environment that mimicked their work conditions. Those administered solriamfetol for a duration of four weeks reported a notable reduction in sleepiness and improvements in their work performance and daily activities.
According to Dr. Charles Czeisler, the chief of sleep medicine at Mass General Brigham, “The improvement we saw is clinically meaningful. These workers were able to stay awake and alert throughout a full eight-hour shift, which has real implications for performance, safety, and quality of life.”
The study also highlights the prevalence of “shift work disorder,” a condition affecting a significant number of early morning workers. This disorder can lead to impaired cognitive function, decreased job performance, and an increased risk of accidents, both on the road and in the workplace.
Czeisler further stated, “This study addresses a major gap by focusing on the workers who start their day when most people are still asleep.” The impact of this research extends beyond individual performance; it has broader implications for workplace safety and overall worker well-being.
In summary, the findings from this study underscore the potential benefits of solriamfetol for early morning shift workers. As the workforce continues to evolve, the importance of addressing sleep-related challenges becomes increasingly critical. The results advocate for greater awareness and support for those whose work schedules defy the natural rhythms of sleep.
