How to Stop Taking Provigil
Provigil is the brand name for the prescription medicine modafinil manufactured by Cephalon for the treatment of narcolepsy and other sleep disorders, including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Prolonged use of the drug can lead to dependence, which is why some individuals choose to stop taking it. Other reasons to stop using Provigil may include the more serious side effects, such as hives, difficulty breathing and swallowing, chest pain, depression, hallucinations and psychosis. Mental problems, including suicidal thoughts, have also been reported among the serious side effects.
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Things You'll Need
- Consultation with a doctor about alternative treatments and tapering off the drug.
Instructions
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Discuss alternative treatments for your sleep apnea, narcolepsy or other sleep disorder with a doctor when you decide to discontinue taking Provigil. Other prescription medicines are available to treat sleep disorders, depending on your particular condition.
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Consider tapering off the drug gradually, rather than stopping use of Provigil abruptly. Clinical studies show that tapering from a 150 mg dose down to 125 mg and then to 100 mg may ease the transition off Provigil and delay the return of sleep disorder symptoms. A specific tapering plan should be worked out with your physician, who can prescribe lower concentrations to wean you off the drug.
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Anticipate that symptoms of your sleep disorder will return soon after discontinuing Provigil, which is a stimulant to increase alertness. Be cautious when operating machinery or performing any sort of work that could lead to injury or death if you are overcome by a sleep condition.
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Report any sharp mood changes, extreme emotional reactions or unusual mental states to your doctor or another health care professional as you wean yourself off Provigil.
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Tips & Warnings
Stop taking Provigil immediately and see a doctor if you experience suicidal thoughts, severe depression, hallucinations, psychosis or manic behavior. Seek emergency medical help if you have an allergic reaction to the drug such as hives; difficulty breathing and swallowing, facial swelling or any sudden enlargement of your lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using Provigil and call your doctor at once if you experience any of these side effects: Severe chest pains may be an indication of an adverse reaction to Provigil and require immediate evaluation.
