Provigil (Modafinil) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Provigil

Sleep »

What is sleep?

There are over 20 definitions of "sleep" in several dictionaries. The first, a verb, seems most appropriate:

to take the rest afforded by a suspension of voluntary bodily functions and the natural suspension, complete or partial, of consciousness; cease being awake.

Physiologically, sleep is a complex process of restoration and renewal for the body. Scientists still do not have a definitive explanation for why humans have a need for sleep. We do know that sleep is not a passive process or "switching off" of body functions; sleep is believed to be important in many physiologic processes including the processing of experiences and the consolidation of memories. It is also clear that sleep is essential, not only for humans but for almost all animals.

The importance of sleep is underscored by the symptoms experienced by those suffering from sleep problems. People s...

Read the Sleep article »

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Provigil Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

MODAFINIL - ORAL

(mow-DAFF-in-ill)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Provigil

USES: Modafinil decreases extreme sleepiness due to narcolepsy and other sleep disorders such as difficult/irregular breathing during sleep (e.g., obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome-OSAHS). It is also used to help you stay awake during work hours for people with work schedules that interfere with a normal sleep routine (shift work sleep disorder-SWSD).

It is not known how modafinil works to increase wakefulness. It is thought to work by affecting certain chemicals in the brain that control the sleep/wake cycle. Modafinil does not make up for lack of sleep and should not be used to treat tiredness or hold off sleep in people who do not have a sleep disorder.

This medication is not recommended for use in children.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before your start using modafinil and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once daily in the morning or as directed by your doctor. If you are using modafinil for shift work sleep disorder, take this medication 1 hour before you start your work shift or as directed by your doctor. If you are using this for apnea (OSAHS), continue your other current treatment (e.g., CPAP machine) unless your doctor tells you to stop.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Use this medication exactly as prescribed to get the most benefit from it.

Rarely, abnormal drug-seeking behavior (addiction) is possible with this medication. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or use it for a longer time than prescribed. Properly stop the medication when so directed.

Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.