[Modafinil in psychiatric disorders: the promising state reconsidered].

Abstract

BACKGROUND: For more than two decades psychiatrists have known about and have promoted modafinil, a very promising stimulant that boosts wakefulness in cases of narcolepsy and also enhances cognitive functions. At present, however, we must conclude that modafinil is hardly ever used to treat illness other than narcolepsy. AIM: To review current attitudes and practice with regard to the use and efficacy of modafinil in the treatment of psychiatric disorders. METHOD: Relevant placebo-controlled studies were retrieved via PubMed (Medline) and Web of Science. RESULTS: Modafinil is used experimentally to treat ADHD, mood disorders, schizophrenia and substance-dependence. Compared to placebo, moda..