Common Use

Provigil is used to improve wakefulness in patients with excessive sleepiness caused by narcolepsy, sleep apnea, or shift work sleep disorder. Its effects are similar to caffeine. Provigil works by promoting wakefulness through brain stimulation, affecting neurotransmitters.

Dosage and Direction

• Take Provigil exactly as prescribed.
• Treatment usually lasts up to twelve weeks.
• Provigil is typically taken in the morning to prevent daytime sleepiness.
• For shift work sleep disorder, take it one hour before the work shift begins.
• It may be used with a CPAP machine for obstructive sleep apnea patients.

Precautions

Notify your doctor if you have:

• Angina, heart problems, or a history of heart attack
• Liver, kidney disease, or cirrhosis
• Mitral valve prolapse
• History of drug addiction
• High blood pressure treatment

Provigil may impair alertness, use with caution when driving or operating machinery. Seek immediate medical attention for skin rash, which could indicate a serious condition. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Contraindication

Provigil is contraindicated if you are allergic to modafinil or armodafinil (Nuvigil).

Possible Side Effects

• Allergic reactions (hives, rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
• Severe vomiting, fever, sore throat, headache
• Numbness, muscle weakness, bruising, tingling
• White mouth sores, unusual bleeding
• Mood changes (anxiety, depression, hallucinations)
• Irregular heartbeat, chest pain

Contact your doctor if side effects worsen or become bothersome.

Drug Interactions

• Methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine may reduce Provigil absorption.
• Provigil may increase clomipramine levels.
• Cyclosporine, theophylline, and hormonal contraceptives may weaken Provigil's effects.

Inform your doctor about all medications, including:

• Propranolol, rifampin, midazolam, diazepam, triazolam
• Itraconazole, ketoconazole, antidepressants (doxepin, imipramine, amitriptyline)
• Phenytoin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine
• MAO inhibitors (rasagiline, selegiline, isocarboxazid, tranylcypromine)

Missed Dose

Take a missed dose as soon as remembered, if you plan to stay awake. Skip it if near bedtime. Never double the dose.

Overdose

Symptoms include confusion, insomnia, agitation, nausea, or diarrhea. Seek immediate medical help if overdose is suspected.

Storage

Store Provigil at 59-86°F (15-30°C) in a sealed, dark container. Keep away from heat, moisture, and sunlight.

Disclaimer

This information is for general purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance. We are not liable for any errors in content or consequences of self-treatment.