Provigil

Generic name:modafinil [ moe-DAF-i-nil ]
Drug class:CNS stimulants

Medically reviewed by Sanjai Sinha, MD. Last updated on Mar 30, 2022.

What is Provigil?

Provigil is a medication that promotes wakefulness. It is thought to work by altering the natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain.

Provigil is used to treat excessive sleepiness caused by sleep apnea, narcolepsy, or shift work sleep disorder.

Provigil may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

You should not use Provigil if you have ever had an allergic reaction or skin rash while taking modafinil or armodafinil (Nuvigil).

Provigil can cause skin reactions that may be severe enough to need treatment in a hospital. Stop taking this medicine and get emergency medical help if you have a skin rash or hives, blisters or peeling, mouth sores, trouble breathing or swallowing, fever, swelling in your legs, dark urine, yellowing of your skin or eyes, or swelling in your face.

Before using Provigil, tell your doctor if you have angina (chest pain), liver or kidney disease, a heart problem, a history of drug addiction, if you take blood pressure medication, or if you have recently had a heart attack.

Modafinil affects the central nervous system. This medication may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert. Avoid other dangerous activities until you know how this medication will affect your level of wakefulness.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Provigil if you have ever had an allergic reaction or skin rash while taking modafinil or armodafinil (Nuvigil).

To make sure Provigil is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• angina (chest pain);

• cirrhosis or other liver problem;<...