Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: MODAFINIL - ORAL (mow-DAFF-in-ill)
BRAND NAME(S): Provigil
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
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: 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.
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.
PRECAUTIONS: 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.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Sleep - Read about how to get a healthy nights sleep, how much sleep is enough, and why skimping on sleep can lead to poor performance, health, and moods.
- Narcolepsy - Learn about narcolepsy symptoms like excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy, distorted perceptions, and sleep paralysis.
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