Brand name : MODALERT
(Modafinil,Modalert/Modafinil)
Pronounced: PRO-vi-jil
Generic name: Modafinil , Modalert/Modafinil ,Modalert
Why is Modalert/Modafinil prescribed?
Modalert/Modafinil is a stimulant drug used to treat unusually sleepy people
who have been diagnosed with narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea
syndrome, or shift work sleep disorder. You should be diagnosed with
one of these sleep disorders before taking Modalert/Modafinil, since sleepiness
can be a symptom of other medical conditions.
Most important fact about Modalert/Modafinil
Modalert/Modafinil will not cure any sleep disorder; it merely treats the symptom
of sleepiness. This medication should not be used in place of getting
enough sleep. You should follow your doctor's advice about maintaining
good sleep habits.
Modalert/Modafinil, like other stimulants, has the potential for abuse. It can
alter your mood, perception, thinking, and feelings, providing an artificial "lift" and
potentially leading to a certain degree of dependence (although discontinuation
of the drug does not produce physical withdrawal symptoms). Make a
point of taking only the prescribed dose: Never increase the dose or
take additional doses.
How should you take Modalert/Modafinil?
Food does not reduce the effectiveness of Modalert/Modafinil. However, it will
delay the onset of action by approximately 1 hour.
If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as possible. If you don't remember until the next
day, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule.
Do not take a double dose.
Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
Modalert/Modafinil side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Modalert/Modafinil.
* Side effects may include:
Anxiety, depression, diarrhea, difficulty sleeping, dizziness, dry mouth, headache,
infection, loss of appetite, loss of muscle strength, lung problems, nausea,
nervousness, prickling or tingling feeling, runny nose, sore throat
Why should Modalert/Modafinil not be prescribed?
If Modalert/Modafinil gives you an allergic reaction, you'll need to avoid it.
Special warnings about Modalert/Modafinil
If you have high blood pressure, liver or kidney problems, or a history
of psychosis or drug abuse, use Modalert/Modafinil with caution. Be sure your
doctor knows your medical history before you begin this medication.
Modalert/Modafinil should be avoided by people with certain types of heart disease
such as mitral valve prolapse. If you've ever had a heart problem,
be sure to check with the doctor before using Modalert/Modafinil.
Modalert/Modafinil may impair your judgment, thinking, or motor skills. You
should not drive a car or operate hazardous machinery until you know
how Modalert/Modafinil affects you.
Oral and implantable contraceptives are less effective while you are
taking Modalert/Modafinil. You should use an additional method of contraception
while you are taking Modalert/Modafinil and for one month after discontinuing
Modalert/Modafinil.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Modalert/Modafinil
The effect of combining Modalert/Modafinil with alcohol has not been studied.
It's considered wise to avoid alcohol while taking the drug.
If Modalert/Modafinil is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either
could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important
to check with your doctor before combining Modalert/Modafinil with any of the
following:
Antidepressants such as Effexor, Elavil, Pamelor, Paxil, Prozac, and
Tofranil
Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
Clomipramine (Anafranil)
Cyclosporine (Sandimmune)
Diazepam (Valium)
Itraconazole (Sporanox)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
MAO inhibitors such as the antidepressants Nardil and Parnate
Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
Oral contraceptives and hormonal implants
Phenobarbital
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Propranolol (Inderal)
Rifampin (Rifater)
Theophylline (Theo-Dur)
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The possibility of harmful effects during pregnancy has not been ruled
out. If you become pregnant or plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor
immediately. Modalert/Modafinil is recommended during pregnancy only if the need
for therapy outweighs the potential risk.
It is not known whether Modalert/Modafinil appears in breast milk. Tell your
doctor if you are breastfeeding an infant. Nursing mothers should use
Modalert/Modafinil with caution and only when clearly needed.
Recommended dosage for Modalert/Modafinil
ADULTS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can cause symptoms of overdose. If
you suspect an overdose, seek medical treatment immediately.
