Why is this medication prescribed?

Nuvigil (generic name: armodafinil) is a medication that is primarily prescribed for the treatment of excessive sleepiness associated with certain sleep disorders. It belongs to a class of drugs known as wakefulness-promoting agents or eugeroics.

Nuvigil is commonly prescribed for the following conditions:

• Narcolepsy: It is a neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden loss of muscle tone (cataplexy), hallucinations, and sleep paralysis. Nuvigil helps to reduce the excessive sleepiness in individuals with narcolepsy.
• Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): It is a sleep disorder in which a person’s breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep due to a blockage in the airway. Nuvigil can help improve wakefulness and reduce daytime sleepiness in individuals with OSA who are already receiving treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy or other appropriate measures.
• Shift Work Sleep Disorder (SWSD): This condition affects people who work non-traditional hours or rotating shifts, leading to difficulties in maintaining a regular sleep-wake cycle. Nuvigil can help individuals stay awake and alert during their working hours, minimizing the impact of disrupted sleep patterns.

It is important to note that Nuvigil should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional, and its use should be closely monitored. It is not recommended for use as a substitute for adequate sleep, nor is it intended to treat other underlying sleep disorders or their causes.

How should this medicine be used?

Nuvigil (armodafinil) should be used exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It is typically taken orally in the form of tablets, with or without food. The dosing instructions may vary depending on the specific sleep disorder being treated, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Here are some general guidelines:

• For narcolepsy and obstructive sleep apnea: The usual recommended dose is 150 to 250 milligrams (mg) taken once daily in the morning.
• For shift work sleep disorder: The typical recommended dose is 150 mg taken approximately one hour before the start of your work shift.

It’s essential to adhere to the prescribed dosage and timing. Taking Nuvigil too late in the day can lead to difficulty sleeping at night. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Nuvigil or if you need to adjust your dose, consult your healthcare provider.

Remember, Nuvigil is intended to help manage excessive sleepiness, but it does not replace the need for sufficient sleep. It’s important to maintain a regular sleep schedule and prioritize good sleep hygiene practices while using this medication.

Other uses for this medicine

While Nuvigil is primarily prescribed for sleep-related disorders, it may have off-label uses or alternative applications not approved by regulatory authorities. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for guidance on any off-label use of Nuvigil.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions with Nuvigil, here are some important points to consider:

• Allergies and hypersensitivity: Inform your doctor if you have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to armodafinil or any other ingredients in Nuvigil. Allergic reactions may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, which require immediate medical attention.
• Medical conditions: It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions you have, including a history of heart problems, high blood pressure, mental health disorders (such as psychosis or mania), liver or kidney disease, or a history of substance abuse.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Nuvigil may pose risks to a developing fetus, and its use during pregnancy should be discussed with a healthcare professional. It is also not recommended to breastfeed while taking Nuvigil, as the medication may pass into breast milk.
• Interactions with other medications: Nuvigil may interact with certain medications, including hormonal contraceptives, antifungal drugs, anticoagulants, certain antidepressants, and some medications used for the treatment of epilepsy. Inform your doctor about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

These are general precautions, but it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of Nuvigil, taking into account your specific medical history and circumstances.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Nuvigil (armodafinil) usage. You can take the medication with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. However, it is always a good practice to follow a balanced and healthy diet for overall well-being.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you happen to miss a dose of Nuvigil, it’s generally recommended to take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is already close to the time for your next scheduled dose, it is advisable to skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Taking a double dose to make up for the missed dose is not recommended.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Nuvigil (armodafinil) may cause side effects in some individuals. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary.

Common side effects of Nuvigil may include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
• Nervousness or anxiety
• Upset stomach or diarrhea
• Back pain
• Nasal congestion or a runny nose
• Rash or allergic reactions (including hypersensitivity reactions)

These side effects are generally mild and temporary, and they may improve as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if these side effects persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider.

In rare cases, Nuvigil may cause more serious side effects. While uncommon, it’s essential to be aware of them and seek immediate medical attention if they occur. These serious side effects may include:

• Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
• Signs of an allergic reaction (such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing)
• Mental health changes, including depression, anxiety, hallucinations, or suicidal thoughts
• Signs of liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent nausea/vomiting
• Serious skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis

It’s worth noting that this list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns about potential side effects, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

Remember, your healthcare provider prescribed Nuvigil because they have determined that the potential benefits outweigh the risks of side effects. They will closely monitor your response to the medication and can provide you with more specific information and guidance based on your individual situation.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

• Storage: Keep Nuvigil tablets in their original packaging at room temperature, away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light. Follow any specific storage instructions provided by your pharmacist or indicated on the medication label.
• Disposal: It is important to dispose of unused or expired medication properly to prevent accidental ingestion by children, pets, or unauthorized individuals. You can consult your local pharmacy or healthcare facility for guidance on safe medication disposal methods in your area. Do not flush Nuvigil down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so by proper disposal guidelines.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or a suspected overdose, promptly seek medical attention or contact your local poison control center at once (in the United States, the Poison Help hotline is 1-800-222-1222). The symptoms of an overdose may include severe restlessness, confusion, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, nausea, or trouble sleeping. It is important to inform the medical professionals about the specific medication and dosage involved.

What other information should I know?

• Follow instructions: Take Nuvigil exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or alter the dosing schedule without consulting your doctor.
• Regular check-ups: Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and discuss any concerns or side effects you may be experiencing.
• Medication interactions: Inform your doctor about all the medications (prescription and over-the-counter), supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as Nuvigil may interact with certain substances.
• Driving and operating machinery: Nuvigil can cause dizziness and affect your alertness. Be cautious while driving or operating machinery until you are aware of how the medication affects you.
• Avoid alcohol and illicit drugs: Alcohol and certain drugs may interact with Nuvigil and increase the risk of side effects or reduce the medication’s effectiveness. Consult your healthcare provider about alcohol and drug use while taking Nuvigil.

Remember, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for specific guidance and instructions regarding the storage, disposal, emergency procedures, and any additional information related to Nuvigil that may be relevant to your individual circumstances.