Comparison of the effectiveness of modafinil and methylphenidate in treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness in patients with Parkinson’s disease

Background: A large percentage of patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS). This study aims to compare the effectiveness of modafinil and methylphenidate on EDS and side effects.Methods: Fifty nine patients with PD and EDS [Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) more than 9] were recruited in a double-blind placebo controlled trial. Twenty-two patients received modafinil 200 mg daily, twenty-six patients received methylphenidate 10 mg daily, and 11 patients received placebo for 6 weeks. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and ESS were filled out at baseline and 6 weeks later.Results: There was no significant difference in demographics, PSQI, and ESS variables at baseline. The mean of ESS scores decreased significantly in modafinil (17.36 ± 5.05 vs. 10.55 ± 4.62, P 0.001) and methylphenidate (16.27 ± 5.40 vs. 12.23 ± 6.28, P 0.001) groups after 6-week trial, compared with control group (14.27 ± 4.49 vs. 14.09 ± 4.46, P = 0.710). The effectiveness of modafinil and methylphenidate on improving daytime sleepiness and night sleep of patients was not significantly different.Conclusion: Both modafinil and methylphenidate were effective drugs in improving EDS and quality of sleep without significant difference in efficiency and side effects.