How clarithromycin affects sleepiness in certain neurological disorders

Antibiotic-mediated improvements in vigilance: mechanisms of action of clarithromycin in hypersomnia syndromes

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-10685574

This study is looking at how the antibiotic clarithromycin might help people with excessive daytime sleepiness, especially those with conditions like idiopathic hypersomnia and narcolepsy type 2, by exploring how it affects brain activity and other factors in the body.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-10685574 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of the antibiotic clarithromycin on excessive daytime sleepiness, a common symptom in neurological disorders like idiopathic hypersomnia and narcolepsy type 2. The study will involve a randomized, placebo-controlled trial to determine how clarithromycin reduces sleepiness and to identify the biological mechanisms behind this effect. Patients will be monitored for changes in brain activity, neurotransmitter levels, and gut microbiome composition to understand how the medication works. The goal is to provide insights that could lead to better treatments for those suffering from these debilitating conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with idiopathic hypersomnia or narcolepsy type 2 who experience excessive daytime sleepiness.

Not a fit: Patients with sleepiness not related to neurological disorders or those who do not meet the specific diagnostic criteria may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for patients suffering from excessive daytime sleepiness associated with neurological disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that clarithromycin can effectively reduce sleepiness in similar conditions, suggesting a promising avenue for further investigation.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.