Provigil: FDA Approved Stimulant to Treat Extreme Sleepiness

Each day, millions of men and women suffer from a sleep disorder completely in contrast to what we typically think of as a sleep disorder. Known as a persistent sleepiness, I am an individual who suffers from such complications, often requiring in excess of 12 hours of sleep per day. Commonly attributed to the conditions such as narcolepsy or sleep apnea, excessive and persistent sleepiness can result in embarrassment and frustration in both men and women who suffer from this chronic sleep disorder.

In an effort to remedy the complications associated with persistent sleepiness, Cephalon has released an FDA approved drug, Provigil, to aide excessively sleepy sufferers in regaining control over the irregular sleep patters of their day, providing a restoration to a somewhat normal, active and healthy life. For patients who suffer from excessive and persistent sleepiness, appropriate evaluation by a sleep study center may be necessary to first confirm the exact cause and origin of the sleep disorder complication. When the sleepiness is simply attributed to abnormal work schedules, narcolepsy or sleep apnea, Provigil is becoming a more commonly used prescription drug among sleep disorder sufferers.

As a convenient, once-per-day dosing formula, Provigil, in the treatment of sleep disorders resulting in excessive sleepiness, is provided in 200 milligrams but dosing can be as high as 400 milligrams per day. For patients who suffer from persistent sleepiness, dosing is given in the morning unless the need for stimulant is before an unusual work schedule in which dosing would need to occur an hour before beginning the shift.

As with most FDA approved drugs, the use of Provigil, in the treatment of an excessive and persistent sleepiness, may result in side effects. As a general rule, most side effects will dissipate as treatment progresses however it is important to remember that Provigil is a stimulant and, as a result, some stimulant related side effects are expected. When using Provigil, side effects most commonly experienced by patients include those associated with stimulant use such as nervousness, nausea, diarrhea, anxiety and even insomnia. If symptoms such as chest pain, a change in cognitive function or the development of rash or hives become apparent, consultation with the prescribing physician should occur immediately as these are adverse reactions that may indicate an allergic reaction to the ingredients of Provigil.

Contraindications, in the use of Provigil to treat an excessive and persistent sleepiness, include those patients with co-morbid complications including those with a history of substance abuse. As an FDA regulated controlled substance, there is great risk for abuse in patients with a substance abuse history. Additionally, the use of Provigil may not be indicated in pregnancy as the effects of use, in the treatment of an excessive sleepiness have not been confirmed, or ruled out, to complicate a pregnancy or developing fetus. Additionally, if you are using The Pill as a form of contraception, the use of Provigil may inhibit the effectiveness of hormonal based contraception. Discuss these issues with the prescribing physician.

As with any sleep disorder, the key to the management of your complications will lie in the early intervention, diagnosis and treatment. For individuals who suffer from complications associated with excessive and persistent sleepiness, especially that which attributes and impedes on normal function and activities of daily living, discuss the use of prescription medications in the management of your sleep complications. When considering treatment options, the use of Provigil may provide relief and improve your overall quality of life.