Provigil Description
Provigil(Modafinil) is an oral drug that is used for improving wakefulness in patients with excessive sleepiness. The effect of modafinil is similar to caffeine. Both drugs promote wakefulness by stimulating the brain. Thus, both drugs are considered stimulants.

Provigil Uses
This medication is used to treat excessive daytime sleepiness associated with narcolepsy, problems breathing while asleep (sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome-OSAHS), or shift work sleep disorder (SWSD).

How to use Provigil
Take by mouth, in the morning, as directed. Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. Also, do not stop using this drug without your doctor's approval.

Provigil Side Effects
Nausea, diarrhea or headache may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Report promptly: trouble sleeping, dizziness, mental/mood changes, loss of appetite, dry mouth. Unlikely but report promptly chest pain, fast/irregular pulse, vision changes, increased thirst/urination, trouble with urination, trouble with ejaculation, unusual muscle weakness or stiffness, muscle tingling or twitching. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this medication, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Provigil Precaution
Tell your doctor your medical history, including: mental/mood problems, high blood pressure, heart problems, liver problems, kidney problems, allergies (especially drug allergies). Avoid alcohol intake, as it may intensify certain side effects of this drug. Caution is advised when performing tasks requiring alertness (e.g., driving). Caution is advised when this drug is used in the elderly, as they may be more prone to drug side effects. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Provigil Interaction
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially of: MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline), seizure medications (e.g., phenytoin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine), tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, clomipramine), "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin), azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), rifamycins (e.g., rifampin, rifabutin), cyclosporine, diazepam, theophylline, propranolol. This medication may interfere with the effectiveness of hormone-type birth control. Discuss using other methods of birth control with your doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Provigil Overdose
In case of overdose call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing call local emergency services at 911.

Provigil Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Provigil Notes
Do not share this medication with others.

Provigil Other Uses
Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Provigil Storage
Store at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 to 25 degrees C) away from light and moisture.