The Efficacy of Dexedrine for the Sustainment of Helicopter Pilot Performance During 64 Hours of Continuous Wakefulness

Abstract : The purpose of this investigation was to establish the efficacy of Dexedrine for sustaining aviator performance despite 64-hours of extended wakefulness. Although earlier flight studies yielded favorable results with no significant side effects, they were restricted to sleep-deprivation periods of only 40 hours. Due to requirements for longer periods of sustained wakefulness, it was necessary to study the efficacy of Dexedrine for maintaining aviator performance during 3 days and 2 nights without sleep. To accomplish this, computerized evaluations of aviator flight skills were conducted at regular intervals as subjects completed standardized flights in a UH-60 helicopter simulator, both: under Dexedrine and placebo. Laboratory-based assessments of cognitive, psychological, and central nervous system status were completed as well. Dexedrine (10 mg.) was given prophylactically (prior to signs of fatigue) at midnight, 0400, and 0800 on both deprivation days in one cycle, and placebo was given on both days in the other. Results indicated simulator flight performance was maintained by Dexedrine for up to 58 hours, while performance under placebo rapidly deteriorated. The drug was most beneficial

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