Provigil: The Smart Drug

1. What is Provigil? Provigil (Modafinil) is a medication that promotes wakefulness. It is thought to work by altering the natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain. Provigil is used to treat excessive sleepiness caused by sleep apnea, narcolepsy, or shift work sleep disorder. Provigil may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide. Before taking this medicine You should not use Provigil if you have ever had an allergic reaction or skin rash while taking modafinil or armodafinil (Nuvigil). To make sure Provigil is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have: angina (chest pain); cirrhosis or other liver problem; kidney disease; high blood pressure, heart disease, or history of heart attack; a history of mental illness or psychosis; or history of alcoholism or drug addiction.

2. Provigil side effects Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Provigil: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Provigil can cause skin reactions that may be severe enough to need treatment in a hospital. Stop taking this medicine and get emergency medical help if you have: skin rash or hives, blisters or peeling; mouth sores, trouble swallowing; fever, shortness of breath; swelling in your legs; dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or Swelling in your face, eyes, lips, tongue, or throat.

3. Uses Modafinil reduces extreme sleepiness due to narcolepsy and other sleep disorders, such as periods of stopped breathing during sleep (obstructive sleep apnea). It is also used to help you stay awake during work hours if you have a work schedule that keeps you from having a normal sleep routine (shift work sleep disorder). This medication does not cure these sleep disorders and may not get rid of all your sleepiness. Modafinil does not take the place of getting enough sleep. It should not be used to treat tiredness or hold off sleep in people who do not have a sleep disorder.