The medications modafinil and pitolisant can improve alertness in narcolepsy. They increase levels of the chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. They are similar to amphetamines but have lower side effects.
People with narcolepsy who get optimal treatment, including behavioral strategies, often find their sleepiness improves greatly. However, this takes time.
What is modafinil?
Modafinil 200 Australia (Provigil, Nuvigil) is a wake-promoting medication that has been shown to improve alertness in people with narcolepsy. It acts by increasing levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine. It is similar to other medications that increase alertness, such as methylphenidate, amphetamines, and the once-nightly oxybate salts (such as sodium oxybate and mixed oxybate salts) and gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB). Unlike amphetamine-like stimulants, it does not cause addiction and does not have adverse effects on the heart or blood pressure.
It is used to treat narcolepsy and shift work sleep disorder (SWSD). It has also been demonstrated to reduce daytime sleepiness in patients with obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome and to treat the associated fatigue. It does not improve cataplexy or other ancillary symptoms of narcolepsy, such as hypnagogic hallucinations and sleep paralysis.
Modafinil may interact with some other medicines. Talk to your doctor about possible interactions. It can cause birth defects. Do not breastfeed while taking this medicine. This medication may make certain birth control pills less effective. Ask your doctor about using another form of birth control. This medication can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Do not drink large amounts of alcohol or take nonprescription products that contain caffeine while taking this medicine.
How does modafinil work?
Modafinil is a wakefulness-promoting medication that has been shown to improve excessive daytime sleepiness in people with narcolepsy or obstructive sleep apnea (OSAHS). It also has been used off-label as a cognitive enhancement drug, improving alertness and concentration to help patients study for exams, perform better at work, and avoid falling asleep during their scheduled waking hours.
Several studies have linked Modalert 200mg Australia ability to promote wakefulness to its effects on the hypocretin/orexin system, particularly the tuberomammillary nucleus and orexin neurons of the perifornical area. In one such study, Fo’s reactivity was observed in both the tuberomammillary nucleus (which is implicated in the regulation of normal wakefulness) and orexin neurons after modafinil administration in mice.
Another study involving non-pharmacological paradoxical sleep deprivation in rats found that modafinil increased locomotor activity to a similar extent as methamphetamine, but unlike methamphetamine, did not provoke rebound hypersomnolence. These findings support the hypothesis that modafinil increases locomotor activity by inhibiting sleep drive, resulting in consolidated periods of wakefulness.
Like other wakefulness-promoting medications, modafinil may cause side effects such as headache, dizziness, nervousness, and nausea. It is important to follow your doctor’s dosage instructions carefully and use the lowest dose that effectively treats your condition.
This will reduce your risk of experiencing serious side effects such as a severe allergic reaction (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat). It is also important to avoid drinking large amounts of beverages containing caffeine while taking this medication.
What are the side effects of modafinil?
A rash, itching, or swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, or throat, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing may occur with modafinil. These symptoms can be severe and should be reported to your doctor immediately. Other side effects of modafinil may include stomach pain, nausea, dizziness, or headache.
Modafinil has been shown to improve wakefulness in patients with excessive sleepiness associated with narcolepsy, shift work sleep disorder, or obstructive sleep apnea (in addition to treating the underlying cause). In these studies, modafinil was shown to be safe and well-tolerated in a variety of doses.
In a long-term study of narcolepsy, it was found that long-term use of modafinil significantly improved patients’ quality of life. It also reduced the need for hospitalization.
It’s important to tell your family and friends about your narcolepsy so they understand the condition. This will help to avoid confusion and prevent people from misjudging you for sleeping too much or being lazy. You should also let your school know if you have narcolepsy so that they can be aware of the risk of sudden loss of muscle control (cataplexy).
Some medicines, such as cold and allergy medications or antidepressants, may make your narcolepsy worse. Speak to your GP or pharmacist about any medicines you are taking, as they may be able to recommend non-drowsy alternatives.
How should I take modafinil?
Modafinil is a tablet that you take orally (by mouth). It’s usually taken in the morning for narcolepsy and sleep apnea, and before a work shift to treat shift work sleep disorder. It may be prescribed for other conditions as well, and your doctor will tell you how much to take and when to take it.
Modafinil can be habit-forming, so it’s important to take it exactly as your doctor prescribes it. Never take a larger dose, take it more often, or take it for a longer period than your doctor recommends. Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides, patient information, and instruction sheets.
Keep this medicine in a safe place where others cannot reach it. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you miss a dose and do not take the missed dose at the next scheduled time.
Medications are a core therapy for most people with narcolepsy. Even when they don’t cure narcolepsy, medications improve alertness and allow most people with narcolepsy to lead full, productive lives. In addition to optimizing medications, following good sleep habits and addressing cataplexy with antidepressants or oxybates can also help.