Modafinil for cognitive neuroenhancement in healthy non-sleep-deprived subjects: A systematic review
Key Finding
Modafinil reliably enhances attention, executive function, and learning in healthy adults, especially on complex tasks.
Plain-English Summary
This systematic review examined 24 studies investigating modafinil's effects on cognition in healthy, non-sleep-deprived individuals. The review focused on studies using single doses ranging from 100-400mg.
Results indicated that modafinil consistently enhances attention, executive functions, and learning in healthy individuals. Effects were dose-dependent, with 200mg generally producing optimal cognitive enhancement. The drug particularly improved performance on complex, difficult tasks that required sustained mental effort.
Benefits included improved planning, decision-making, pattern recognition, and sustained attention. However, simple tasks showed minimal improvement, suggesting modafinil primarily enhances higher-order cognitive functions. Side effects were generally mild, including headache and anxiety in some individuals. The researchers noted modafinil's potential as a cognitive enhancer but emphasized the need for careful consideration of ethical implications.