Modafinil

Modafinil acts on the central nervous system to promote wakefulness and reduce excessive daytime sleepiness. Its exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it is thought to influence several chemical messengers in the brain involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle, including dopamine. It helps you stay awake but does not replace a proper night's sleep.

Take modafinil exactly as prescribed and follow the patient information leaflet. It is taken by mouth, typically in the morning, or in some cases split between the morning and the start of a work shift, depending on the condition being treated. To avoid difficulty sleeping, do not take it late in the day, and continue any other treatment your doctor has prescribed (for example, a breathing device for sleep apnoea).

Common (usually mild and temporary):

• Headache
• Difficulty sleeping (insomnia), especially if taken late in the day
• Nausea or other stomach upset
• Nervousness, anxiety or feeling jittery
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth

• Modafinil can reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraception (pill, patch, implant and some intrauterine systems); use an additional or alternative non-hormonal method during treatment and for up to two months after stopping.
• Tell your doctor before use if you have any heart problems, high blood pressure, an irregular heartbeat or a history of chest pain.
• Stop taking modafinil and seek urgent medical help if you develop a rash or any signs of a skin or allergic reaction, which can rarely be serious.
• Tell your doctor about all other medicines, as modafinil interacts with many drugs, including some for blood pressure, mood, epilepsy and blood clotting.
• Avoid or limit caffeine and other stimulants, which may add to nervousness, a fast heartbeat and difficulty sleeping.
• Tell your doctor about any history of mental-health problems, liver or kidney disease, or alcohol or drug misuse before starting.
• Not generally recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Store in the original packaging at room temperature, below 25°C, away from moisture and direct light, out of the sight and reach of children. Where controlled, return unused tablets to a pharmacy for safe disposal.