A recent study from Boston indicates that a new drug, solriamfetol, marketed as Sunosi, can significantly help early morning shift workers remain alert and awake. Conducted by researchers at Mass General Brigham, the study highlights the challenges faced by individuals who begin their workday between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m., a time when most people’s biological clocks are still set for sleep.
According to study author Kirsi-Marja Zitting, these early shift workers often struggle to maintain alertness due to their body’s natural tendencies. “People who start work at such early hours are waking up at a time when the brain is biologically programmed to sleep,” Zitting stated. This condition can hinder job performance, even among those who are highly motivated.
The clinical trial involved 78 early morning shift workers who experienced difficulties in staying awake during work hours or faced challenges in resting when they needed to. Researchers assessed how long participants could remain awake in a controlled environment that mimicked their typical work conditions. Those who received solriamfetol over a four-week period reported a marked reduction in sleepiness and an increase in productivity in both professional and daily activities.
Dr. Charles Czeisler, chief of sleep medicine at Mass General Brigham, noted the clinical significance of the findings. “The improvement we saw is clinically meaningful,” he commented. “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 addressed a pressing issue known as shift work disorder, which affects a substantial number of early morning workers. This disorder can lead to impaired cognitive functions, reduced job performance, and can increase the risk of accidents, both on the road and in the workplace. Czeisler emphasized the importance of this research, stating, “This study addresses a major gap by focusing on the workers who start their day when most people are still asleep.”
As solriamfetol is already approved for treating excessive sleepiness associated with conditions like sleep apnea and narcolepsy, its potential application for early morning shift workers marks a significant development in occupational health. This research not only sheds light on the challenges faced by these workers but also offers a viable solution to enhance their well-being and work efficiency.
The findings from this study may lead to further investigations into tailored treatments for shift workers, providing a new outlook on how to support individuals who contribute to vital services during unconventional hours.
