Understanding the Use of Nuvigil Medication

Since this medicine Nuvigil stays in the blood for a longer period (has a longer half-life) than its counterpart Modafinil (Provigil). Due to this, it may be more effective than Modafinil in promoting wakefulness in the daytime.

About Nuvigil

Nuvigil is particularly used in promoting wakefulness in patients who have extreme sleepiness related to obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS), narcolepsy, and shift work sleep disorder (SWSD).

Nivigil is available as a 50 mg, 150 mg, or 250 mg tablet to be only taken by mouth. The suggested starting dose of the drug for OSAHS and narcolepsy treatment is 150 mg or 250 mg and is given as a single dose in the morning. The recommended beginner dose of the drug for the treatment of SWSD is 150 mg given daily about one hour before the work shift starts.

Working Mechanism

The exact mechanism of action of Nuvigil is unclear. Armodafinil present in Nuvigil is categorized under the class of drugs called eugeroics, which are neural stimulants that provide prolonged mental arousal. Pharmacologically, armodafinil is not involved in the binding or blockade of various receptors and enzymes that are relevant for the control of the sleep/wake cycle.

Side Effects

Adverse events may include, but are not limited to:

· Headache

· Nausea

· Dizziness

· Insomnia

· Dry mouth

· Anxiety

· Diarrhea

· Rash

Nuvigil is not allowed for use in patients with a known allergic reaction to modafinil and armodafinil or its inactive ingredients. Armodafinil has not been studied in children in disorders and is not approved for use in children for any indication. 

One should be advised to stop the therapy and instantly report to their doctor in case of any signs or symptoms suggesting severe allergic reaction (called Anaphylaxis; the symptoms for which include swelling of face, eyes, lips, tongue, or larynx; difficulty in swallowing or breathing; hoarseness). 

Things to remember before taking Nuvigil

To ensure that armodafinil is safe for you, inform your doctor about the following:

· A history of or ongoing liver or kidney disease;

· A history of a heart muscle or valve disorder such as mitral valve prolapse;

· Medical and family history of high blood pressure, heart disease, or prior heart attack;

· If suffering from or had mental illness or psychosis; or

· If having or had drug or alcohol addiction.

Using Nuvigil Correctly

Nuvigil is an addictive medicine. One should not share this medicine armodafinil with another person, particularly someone who has had drug abuse or addiction. Selling or giving Armodafinil to someone is illegal.

All the patient information, medication guidelines, and instruction sheets provided should be read carefully before using this medicine. Talk to your doctor in case of any queries.

Nuvigil Generic is commonly taken each at the same time in the morning to prevent daytime sleepiness, or almost one hour before the work shift begins for the therapy of work-time sleep disorders.

Nuvigil can be taken with or without food.

Nuvigil is commonly given for up to 12 weeks. The doctor's instructions must be followed precisely.