The present invention is related to chemical compositions, processes for the preparation thereof and uses of the composition. Particularly, the present invention relates to compositions that include substituted biaryl-methanesulfinyl acetamides of Formula (I): ##STR00001## wherein Ar, Y, R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.4, R.sup.5, q and x are as defined herein; and their use in the treatment of diseases, including treatment of sleepiness associated with narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, or shift work disorder; Parkinson's disease; Alzheimer's disease; attention deficit disorder; attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; depression; or fatigue associated with a neurological disease; as well as the promotion of wakefulness.