Armodafinil (Nuvigil): Overview, Side Effects, and Alternatives | How long does armodafinil last

Armodafinil (Nuvigil) is a medicine which is used to enhance wakefulness in patients with narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, or shift work disorder. It is comparable to the drug modafinil (Provigil).

What is armodafinil (Nuvigil) and how does it work?

Armodafinil (Nuvigil) is a central nervous system (CNS) medicine that promotes wakefulness. Researchers aren’t sure how it works, but it may influence brain regions that control alertness and attention.

What is the use of armodafinil (Nuvigil)?

Excessive drowsiness caused by narcolepsy, shift work condition, or obstructive sleep apnea.

Dosage variants of armodafinil (Nuvigil)

Tablets of 50mg, 150mg, 200mg and 250mg

Typical armodafinil dosage (Nuvigil)

Narcolepsy and obstructive sleep apnea: A dosage of 150 to 250 mg taken orally once a day in the morning is recommended.

Pros and cons of armodafinil (Nuvigil)

Pros

• It just has to be taken once a day.
• When compared to amphetamine stimulants, it is less prone to be misused.
• Generic versions are also available, which may be less expensive.

Cons

• Other medications, including hormonal birth control, can interact with it.
• Children under the age of 16 are not proven to be safe or effective.
• People over the age of 65 and those with severe liver disease may require a lower dosage.
• In people with a history of certain mental conditions, it should be treated with caution.
• If you are pregnant or nursing, it is generally not recommended.
• For certain people with heart problems, this may not be the best option.

What are the side effects of armodafinil (Nuvigil)?

There are risks and advantages to each medication. Even if the medication is effective, you may suffer some unwanted side effects.

As your body becomes used to the medicine, the following side effects may improve. If you continue to have such symptoms or if they get worse, contact your doctor right away.

Side effects that are common –

Headache (17%)

Nausea (7%)

Dizziness (5%)

Trouble sleeping (5%)

Anxiety (4%)

Diarrhea (4%)

Dry mouth (4%)

Other side effects –

Depression

Upset stomach or indigestion

Fatigue

Change in heartbeat

What are the risks and side effects of armodafinil (Nuvigil)?

Armodafinil (Nuvigil) can have serious side effects. For certain people, the risk is significantly higher. If you are worried, speak with your doctor or pharmacist about alternate choices.

Allergic reactions that are severe

Armodafinil (Nuvigil) can cause severe allergic responses including swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, or throat, making breathing difficult. Certain parts of the body, such as the liver or blood cells, are sometimes involved in allergic reactions. Fever and rash, weakness, and yellowing of the skin or white part of the eyes are all symptoms. If you notice any of these symptoms while taking armodafinil (Nuvigil), get medical treatment immediately.

Severe skin responses

Armodafinil (Nuvigil) can cause severe and perhaps deadly skin reactions in rare cases. If you notice a new rash, sores, or blisters on your skin, lips, or inside your mouth, or peeling of your skin, stop taking armodafinil (Nuvigil) and get medical help right away.

Drunken driving

Armodafinil (Nuvigil) can change your ability to focus, think, and react. While the drug can increase wakefulness, some people who are extremely sleepy may still struggle to stay awake while using armodafinil (Nuvigil). Be cautious and avoid activities requiring alertness, like driving a car or operating machinery, until you know how this medicine affects you.

Heart problems

Armodafinil (Nuvigil) is not recommended for persons with certain heart issues because it can cause chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and shortness of breath. While using armodafinil(Nuvigil), your doctor may advise you to keep an eye on your blood pressure and heart rate.

Mental health disorder symptoms

Some people who use armodafinil (Nuvigil) have experienced symptoms of depression, hallucinations, mania (very high or enthusiastic mood), or suicidal thoughts. While using armodafinil (Nuvigil), keep an eye on the situation of depression worsening or unexpected mood or behavior changes.

Alternatives to armodafinil (Nuvigil)?

Your doctor can prescribe a variety of medicines in place of armodafinil (Nuvigil). Below are a few alternatives to consider.

• Modafinil (Provigil)

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