Armodafinil (trade name Nuvigil or Waklert) is the enantiopure compound of the eugeroic modafinil (Provigil). It consists of only the (R)-(−)-enantiomer of the racemic modafinil. Armodafinil is produced by the pharmaceutical company Cephalon Inc. and was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in June 2007. In 2016, the FDA granted Mylan rights for the first generic version of Cephalon’s Nuvigil to be marketed in the U.S.
What is Armodafinil?
Armodafinil is a wakefulness-promoting agent used to treat excessive sleepiness caused by narcolepsy, sleep apnea, or shift work sleep disorder. It’s available as 150mg tablets under the brand names Waklert and Artvigil. Armodafinil is thought to work by altering neurotransmitters in the brain to promote wakefulness and alertness.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Armodafinil include headache, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, and nausea. Some users may experience more severe side effects, such as allergic reactions, severe rash, depression, hallucinations, and heart palpitations.
Warnings
Armodafinil should be used with caution in patients with a history of heart problems or high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, mental health issues, or a history of substance abuse.
Before Taking This Medicine
Patients should inform their healthcare provider about any pre-existing conditions, especially those related to heart health, mental health, and any previous allergic reactions to stimulant medications.
How Should I Take This Medicine?
Armodafinil should be taken exactly as prescribed, usually once a day. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may delay its onset of action.
Dosing Information
The standard dose for Armodafinil is 150mg, typically taken in the morning for treating narcolepsy or sleep apnea, and approximately one hour before the start of a work shift for those with shift work disorder.
What Happens If I Miss a Dose?
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. However, if it’s close to the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What Happens If I Overdose?
Overdosing on Armodafinil can lead to severe symptoms like restlessness, confusion, hallucinations, heart palpitations, and trouble breathing. Immediate medical attention is necessary.
What Should I Avoid While Taking It?
Patients should avoid other medications or substances that might increase heart rate or blood pressure. Activities requiring mental alertness should be performed cautiously until the drug’s effects are known.
Drug Interactions
Armodafinil can interact with other medications, including antidepressants, antifungal medications, blood thinners, and seizure medications.
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