Scientists have discovered a drug that battles daytime sleepiness better than an espresso.

Researchers from Canada found that three anti-fatigue medications can be effective at reducing daytime sleepiness.

They reviewed previous studies of the medication on people with obstructive sleep apnea who were already using another therapy, such as a positive airway pressure (PAP) mask.

Sleep apnea is a common sleep-related condition where breathing stops and starts through the night, putting the body at risk of dangerously depriving it of vital oxygen. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type.

Scientists have discovered a drug that battles daytime sleepiness better than an espresso

Researchers reviewed 14 previous clinical trials with a total of 3,085 participants with obstructive sleep apnea and associated excessive daytime sleepiness.

They compared the effectiveness of three anti-tiredness drugs: solriamfetol, armodafinil-modafinil, and pitolisant.

All three were found to be more effective than a placebo drug at fighting the patients’ tiredness, with solriamfetol having the largest impact.

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Participants’ tiredness was measured using self-reported questionnaires and a test called the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT) which measures how alert someone is during the day.

It involves a person trying to remain awake while in a dimly lit room while they wear sensors to measure their vital signs.

Armodafinil-modafinil and pitolisant were found to ‘probably improve’ wakefulness after a month of use.

The researchers noted that side effects of the drugs could be an issue for users.

Solriamfetol, for instance, has been linked to an increase in blood pressure. 

The study was published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine.

According to the makers of the solriamfetol drug, brand name SUNOSI, improved wakefulness for up to nine hours. With caffeine, people probably won’t feel the effects after four to six hours.