Which medications can alleviate afternoon drowsiness?

Generally, afternoon drowsiness is often related to decreased central nervous system excitability and insufficient energy metabolism. It can be relieved by medications such as compound vitamin B tablets, methylphenidate hydrochloride sustained-release tablets, modafinil tablets, vitamin B1 tablets, and niacinamide tablets, as directed by a physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Compound Vitamin B Tablets

Compound vitamin B tablets contain multiple B vitamins, including B1, B2, and B6. These components jointly participate in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to provide energy for the body while maintaining normal nervous system function. After administration, they can improve fatigue and drowsiness caused by deficiencies in various B vitamins. These tablets are suitable for individuals with irregular diets and high stress levels, alleviating afternoon sleepiness from a nutritional perspective.

2. Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Sustained-Release Tablets

These tablets relieve drowsiness by promoting the release of norepinephrine and dopamine in the central nervous system, thereby enhancing neuronal excitability and reducing excessive sleepiness. They are commonly used to treat sleepiness associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as severe afternoon drowsiness in the general population. The sustained-release formulation prolongs the duration of the drug's effect, helping maintain energy levels throughout the afternoon.

3. Modafinil Tablets

Acting on the central nervous system, modafinil likely alleviates fatigue and drowsiness by regulating neurotransmitter metabolism and enhancing wakefulness-related signal transmission. It is suitable for afternoon drowsiness caused by conditions such as narcolepsy and shift work sleep disorder. It effectively improves alertness and has relatively minimal impact on normal sleep architecture.

4. Vitamin B1 Tablets

Vitamin B1 is a key coenzyme in the body's energy metabolism. Its deficiency can hinder carbohydrate metabolism, leading to insufficient energy supply and resulting in fatigue and drowsiness. Supplementing with vitamin B1 tablets can improve the energy metabolism process and provide energy for the body. These tablets are suitable for individuals experiencing afternoon drowsiness due to unbalanced diets or long-term late-night activities that cause loss of B vitamins.

5. Niacinamide Tablets

As a member of the B vitamin family, niacinamide participates in lipid metabolism and oxidative processes in tissue respiration, promoting energy production and maintaining normal nervous system function. Administration can alleviate fatigue and lethargy caused by niacinamide deficiency, thereby improving afternoon drowsiness. These tablets are suitable for individuals with monotonous diets or impaired nutrient absorption.

In daily life, it is important to develop good habits. A short nap of 15–20 minutes at noon is recommended, avoiding excessive sleep. When feeling drowsy in the afternoon, getting up to move around, opening a window for fresh air, and engaging in light physical activity can help alleviate fatigue and reduce reliance on medications.