Use of psychostimulants to treat daytime hypersomnolence in myotonic dystrophies

A Cochrane review of clinical trials evaluating psychostimulant drugs in myotonic dystrophies was published in November 2024.

Six clinical trials were selected, involving 136 participants.

  • According to patient feedback, these drugs may reduce daytime sleepiness, but do not improve quality of life.
  • There were discrepancies between the various trials, making the conclusions uncertain.
  • In addition, the trials were only conducted on a short-term basis (less than one month) and only on adults.

New trials are needed to better assess the efficacy of these drugs.

 

Psychostimulants for hypersomnia (excessive daytime sleepiness) in myotonic dystrophy. Annane D, Laberge L, Gallais B et al. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2024 Nov