Armodafinil

Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders

Drug Status

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Government Approvals

US(FDA), UK(BNF)

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WHO Essential Medicine

NO

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Known Teratogen

NO

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Pharmaceutical Class

None

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Controlled Drug Substance

YES

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Drug Ingredient

Armodafinil

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Summary

  • Armodafinil is used to treat sleep disorders like narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and shift work disorder (SWD). These conditions cause excessive daytime sleepiness and disrupt normal sleep patterns.

  • Armodafinil works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals promote wakefulness and help you stay alert during the day.

  • The usual dose for adults with sleep apnea or narcolepsy is 150 to 250 milligrams once a day in the morning. For shift workers, 150 milligrams is taken an hour before the shift starts. This medicine is not recommended for children.

  • Common side effects of Armodafinil include headache, dizziness, and insomnia. Some people may also experience stomach upset, weight loss, and mood changes.

  • Armodafinil should be avoided if you have allergies to it, heart problems, severe liver issues, or a history of mental health conditions. It should also be used with caution during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always consult your doctor before use.

Indications and Purpose

How does Armodafinil work?

Armodafinil works by affecting certain neurotransmitters in the brain, primarily dopamine, to promote wakefulness and alertness. It enhances the release of these chemicals, which helps to reduce excessive sleepiness. While the exact mechanism is not fully understood, it is believed to stimulate areas of the brain that control sleep-wake cycles, helping people stay awake and focused. Armodafinil is primarily used to treat conditions like narcolepsy, sleep apnea, and shift work sleep disorder.

How does one know if Armodafinil is working?

You can tell Armodafinil is working if you experience:

  1. Increased Wakefulness: You feel less sleepy and more alert during the day.
  2. Improved Focus: Better concentration and mental clarity, especially if you have trouble staying awake or alert.
  3. Enhanced Energy: A noticeable reduction in fatigue or drowsiness.

If you don’t experience these effects or have side effects, consult your doctor.

Is Armodafinil effective?

Two studies show that armodafinil can help people with sleep apnea stay awake during the day. The studies lasted 12 weeks and included people who met the criteria for sleep apnea. In both studies, people who took armodafinil were more awake during the day than people who took a placebo.

What is Armodafinil?

Armodafinil is a medication used to treat excessive sleepiness caused by narcolepsy or shift work sleep disorder. It works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which promote wakefulness.

What is Armodafinil used for?

Armodafinil is a medication that helps people who have trouble staying awake during the day due to specific sleep disorders. These disorders can include: * **Narcolepsy:** A condition that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep attacks. * **Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA):** A condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, causing daytime sleepiness. * **Shift Work Disorder (SWD):** A condition that affects people who work irregular or rotating shifts, leading to sleep disruption and daytime fatigue. Armodafinil works by increasing the levels of certain brain chemicals that promote wakefulness. It helps people with these sleep disorders to stay awake and alert during the day, improving their overall quality of life.

Directions for Use

For how long do I take Armodafinil?

How long you take armodafinil depends on what your doctor says. Everyone is different, so there's no set time.

How do I take Armodafinil?

You can take armodafinil tablets either on an empty stomach or with food.

How long does it take for Armodafinil to start working?

Armodafinil typically starts working within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it. Its effects, such as increased alertness and reduced sleepiness, may peak within 2 hours. The medication generally lasts for around 12-15 hours, depending on individual factors like metabolism and the condition being treated.

How should I store Armodafinil?

Keep armodafinil tablets in a cool, dry place, away from children. The best temperature for storage is between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F).

What is the usual dose of Armodafinil?

Armodafinil is a medicine that helps people stay awake. For adults with sleep apnea or narcolepsy (conditions that cause excessive sleepiness), the usual dose is 150 to 250 milligrams once a day in the morning. If someone works shifts, the doctor might prescribe 150 milligrams an hour before their shift starts. This medicine isn't for kids.

Warnings and Precautions

Can Armodafinil be taken safely while breastfeeding?

It's not clear if armodafinil passes into breast milk. If you're nursing, talk to your doctor about the best way to feed your baby.

Can Armodafinil be taken safely while pregnant?

Armodafinil should generally be avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, as its safety has not been well established. It is classified as a pregnancy category C drug, which means there is potential risk to the fetus based on animal studies, but human studies are limited. Always consult your doctor before taking Armodafinil if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant to weigh the risks and benefits.

Can I take Armodafinil with other prescription drugs?

Armodafinil may interfere with other medications that are processed by the same enzymes in the body, such as certain birth control pills, cyclosporine, midazolam, and triazolam. This can lead to lower levels of these medications in the body, which may reduce their effectiveness. If you are taking any of these medications, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage when you start or stop taking armodafinil.

Can I take Armodafinil with vitamins or supplements?

Yes, you can generally take Armodafinil with vitamins or supplements. However, it's a good idea to avoid taking it with supplements that may affect sleep or energy levels, such as stimulants (e.g., caffeine), as they might increase side effects. Always check with your doctor to ensure no interactions with your specific vitamins or supplements.

Is Armodafinil safe for the elderly?

Older adults often need lower doses of medicine and more careful watching because their bodies process drugs differently. Their organs might not work as well as younger people's, so a normal dose could be too strong and cause problems. Doctors keep a close eye on them to make sure the medicine is working safely and effectively.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Armodafinil?

Alcohol should be avoided as it can increase the risk of drowsiness, impaired judgment, or other side effects when combined with Armodafinil.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Armodafinil?

Yes, exercising is safe while taking Armodafinil. However, monitor for increased heart rate, dizziness, or dehydration during physical activity.

Who should avoid taking Armodafinil?

Avoid Armodafinil if you have allergies to it, heart problems, severe liver issues, or a history of mental health conditions. It should also be used with caution during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always consult your doctor before use.