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Nuvigil is a prescription drug that is used to treat excessive sleepiness due to certain sleep disorders. This eMedTV article lists these specific sleep disorders, describes the effects of Nuvigil, and explains how and when to take the medicine.
Potentially serious Nuvigil side effects include chest pain, rash, and anxiety. As this eMedTV page explains, however, side effects are usually mild and don't require treatment. This page also lists the more common side effects of the drug.
Nuvigil is used for helping people with shift work sleep disorder, sleep apnea, or narcolepsy stay awake. This eMedTV Web page further explains how the drug can help treat excessive sleepiness and lists common off-label Nuvigil uses.
The recommended Nuvigil dosage for people with shift work sleep disorder is 150 mg. This part of the eMedTV library also offers dosing recommendations for people with sleep apnea and narcolepsy, and explains when and how to take the medicine.
Medicines that may cause Nuvigil drug interactions include propranolol, diazepam, and warfarin. This eMedTV segment lists some of the other drugs that may interact with Nuvigil and explains what may happen when these medicines are taken together.
People are typically advised to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Nuvigil. This eMedTV Web page further explains what you should know before starting Nuvigil. Warnings and precautions on who should not take the drug are also included.
Insomnia, high blood pressure, and hallucinations are possible effects of a Nuvigil overdose. This eMedTV resource lists other symptoms that may occur if you take too much Nuvigil, and various treatment options are also described.
Based on information from studies on Nuvigil and pregnancy, the drug may not be safe for pregnant women. At this eMedTV article explains, Nuvigil increased the risk of miscarriages and birth defects when it was given to pregnant rats and rabbits.
It is currently not known whether it is safe for women to breastfeed while taking Nuvigil. This page on the eMedTV Web site provides more information on Nuvigil and breastfeeding, and explains whether the drug is likely to pass through breast milk.
At this time, there are no generic Nuvigil products licensed for sale. This page from the eMedTV Web site offers information on when a generic version of the drug will be available and explains the difference between armodafinil and generic Nuvigil.
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