Poorva Chavan
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Written By: Poorva Chavan | Updated : February 10, 2016 11:49 AM IST
Known as one of the best Air Forces in the world, the Indian Air Force has a gone a step ahead in keeping its pilots awake and alert for a long time. According to reports, the pilots have started using pills called 'Go/No Go' pills to stay alert for a long time and also to counter the fatigue in round-the-clock exercises.
Modafinil is the 'Go' pill which gives the pilot the required adrenaline rush and boosts his alertness and cognitive functions during a combat mission and Zolpidem, the 'No Go' pill is a sedative and helps the pilot sleep well after the mission and fight fatigue. Read Zolpidem, the sleeping pill may not let you forget bad memories
The reports also state that these pills have been authorised and are popular among military aviation circles across the world. These pills were used by the pilots of the Indian Air Force during the Livewire exercise that involved activation of all its 54 air bases across the country from October 31st to November 8. The exercise went on 24/7 and required high levels of adrenaline. Read: Modafinil can help fight depression: Study
Do these pills have any side effects?
According to a study published in the journal Environmental Health and Toxicology, Modafinil has few or no adverse effects than traditional psychostimulants like amphetamines or cocaine. Even though it is useful in enhancing the alertness, continuous use might lead to abuse and addiction.
Zolpidem, the no go drug is widely used to treat insomnia. The drug too has very few side effects, but according to the US National Library of Medicine, daytime drowsiness, anxiety and depression, nervousness or unusual behaviour, muscle weakness is a few side effects of this drug. A study published in the journal Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy says that users may also experience rebound insomnia, where they become dependent on the drug to fall asleep.
Are pilots at risk?
A senior Air Force officer explained that these pills have been used after extensive clinical trials in both simulators and actual flying and are effective in optimising the personnel's performance. Another important thing to note is that these pills are not for everyday use and are allowed for specific missions, that too under strict supervision.
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