Replacements for Provigil
Sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy, can be a burden for many people. Provigil is one medication used to treat such disorders, but some patients may not tolerate the drug or its side effects very well. Provigil may cause problems in some patients who are already taking another medication that interacts with Provigil, or who have a medical condition that is aggravated by Provigil. Numerous medications are on the market that help treat sleep disorders and may make appropriate replacements for Provigil. Consult your doctor if you think you may need a different medication.
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About Provigil
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Provigil is the first of its kind in a new class of drugs that helps keep you awake. It is often used to treat narcolepsy and excessive sleepiness. The active ingredient is modafinil. It helps to enhance concentration and memory and is a mood enhancer. It is not available over-the-counter, so you will need a prescription.
According to a study led by Dr. Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, modafinil works in the brain's dopamine system. The study appeared in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
According to www.provigilweb.org, Provigil increases alertness for those who are consistently sleepy and is most effective two hours after it is ingested. Side effects can range from a severe allergic reaction to dry mouth, runny nose, sore throat, insomnia, numbness and tingling. Provigil has the approval of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for those older than 16. It is primarily used to treat sleep disorders, but some doctors are using the medication for weight loss and other issues such as depression, memory decline, fatigue, jet lag and attention-deficit disorder (ADD). Provigil has the potential for abuse and dependency, and it is a controlled substance.
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Nuvigil
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Nuvigil is another option for people dealing with narcolepsy or other sleep disorders. As Provigil, Nuvigil helps promote wakefulness. Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, headache and trouble sleeping. Like Provigil, Nuvigil is classified as a controlled substance. It does have the potential for dependence or to be abused.
Adderall
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Adderall is aimed at treating attention-deficit disorder (ADD) and narcolepsy. Adderall, as with all amphetamines, has a high potential for abuse. Common side effects may include insomnia (especially when taken at night), dry mouth and loss of appetite. Generally, patients with narcolepsy will take higher, more stimulating doses of Adderall than patients with ADD.
Other Replacements
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Other medications used to treat narcolepsy and other sleep disorders include Methylin, Dexedrine, Pristiq, Vyvanse, Ritalin, Concerta, Dextrostat, Liquadd and ProCentra. These medications may be suitable replacements for Provigil, but consult your doctor for the right treatment for you.
Warning
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Provigil and similar medications should not be used as a replacement for sleep. Lack of sleep can result in cardiovascular and neurological problems, as well as high blood pressure, heart rate and insulin levels. With Nuvigil, stop taking the medication and call your doctor if you develop a skin rash. You may need to seek emergency treatment. Consult your doctor before beginning any medications as some can react with other medications you may be taking.
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