Modafinil does not serve as a reinforcer in cocaine abusers

Abstract

The purpose of this double-blind, randomized, outpatient study was to evaluate the reinforcing and subjective effects of modafinil (200, 400, or 600 mg) in cocaine abusers. Twelve participants (2 female, 10 male) completed this study, consisting of 3 blocks of 7 sessions; each block tested a difference dose of modafinil. During the first 2 sessions of each block, participants "sampled" 1 of the doses of modafinil, and placebo. These doses of modafinil and placebo were available for the subsequent five choice sessions of the block. In each choice session, participants had an opportunity to administer active or placebo capsules. Modafinil administration did not differ from placebo administration, and subjective-effects ratings were not systematically altered as a function of modafinil dose. Results suggest that modafinil does not have abuse liability in cocaine abusers.

Figure 1

Average number of choices for placebo and modafinil as a function of modafinil dose. There were no differences between placebo and modafinil.

Figure 2

Figure 2A. VAS “Liked Choice” as a function of drug, modafinil dose, and time. There were no differences between placebo and modafinil. Figure 2B. VAS “Would Pay” as a function of drug, modafinil dose, and time. There were no differences between placebo and modafinil. # indicates a +1 hr vs. +4 hr difference in mm, p ≤ 0.01. Figure 2C. Ratings (mm) of VAS “High” as a function of drug, modafinil dose, and time. There were no differences between placebo and modafinil.