Provigil is one of the medications that has natural chemicals that are helpful for wakefulness. Those individuals who suffer from excessive sleepiness caused by diseases such as narcolepsy or sleep apnea need this medicine to stay away. This medicine is also taken by people who suffer from sleep disorders because of long shifts of work.
Approved by FDA to treat narcolepsy
Provigil is actually an analeptic drug. It has been approved by the U.S. FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for the treatment of patients suffering from narcolepsy. Sometimes excessive daytime sleepiness is associated with individuals who work shifts. Even if this medicine is used for them as well, in the US and in most European countries, this medicine is only prescribed for narcolepsy.
Mechanism of action
Extensive research has been done on the use of Provigil and its interaction with the neurotransmitter systems. The precise mechanism of its action is still very unclear, but it is seen that this medicine usually acts as a stimulant. When this medicine is used to promote wakefulness, it increases the release of monoamine in the system. These monoamines include the catecholamines, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are usually released from the synaptic terminals. Sometimes it also elevates the release of histamine from the hypothalamus.
When this drug was put into clinical trials and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism carried out a study on the effects of this drug on individuals, it was seen that it was not dangerous. Though this drug has affect on the dopamine levels which act on the reward centers of the brain, but affect on catecholamines and histamine nulls he potential of an abuse, thus maintaining its effectiveness. There is limited potential that his drug would be used for any large scale dependence behavior or addiction.
Active ingredient
The active ingredient in the drug Provigil is Modafinil. It is available in 100 mg and 200 mg dosages of tablets. It was brought into the market by Cephalon, Inc. This drug is only advised to the patient when they are suffering from narcolepsy, sleep apnea, or sleep disorder due to shift work. The pharmacist would not give this drug without a prescription because it is listed in schedule IV of the FDA approved drugs. The FDA approved this drug in 1998.
Provigil and birth control
It is observed that this medicine can decrease the effectiveness of some of the contraceptives that are on the market, including control pills for birth or even contraceptives that are implanted. So, while taking Provigil, one should either tell their doctors to suggest some other control mechanism for birth which would not be prevented by Provigil or try and adjust the dosage properly by monitoring it properly.
Modafinil vs alcohol
It is also important to avoid the use of any complex machinery after the use of this drug, unless someone knows the possible side effects from which they can suffer. Avoiding alcohol is important during this stage, and it is also important to consult a doctor if they suffer from any type of allergic reaction because of the use of this drug.