What is Armodafinil: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Jan. 12, 2021  •  Published Dec. 30, 2020

Armodafinil overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Nuvigil, Nuvigil

Generic Names:

  • Armodafinil

Uses:

  • Treats sleepiness from narcolepsy, sleep apnea, or night shift work.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • CNS Stimulant

Forms:

  • Tablet

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Armodafinil used for?

Armodafinil is used to treat sleepiness that may occur with narcolepsy, sleep apnea, and shift work problems. It may also be used to treat ADHD, bipolar disorder, chronic fatigue syndrome and other conditions as prescribed by your doctor. Armodafinil is indicated for use adults and is available as a tablet.

What form(s) does Armodafinil come in

  • Tablet

What are common Armodafinil doses?

  • Tablet 50MG

  • Tablet 150MG

  • Tablet 200MG

  • Tablet 250MG

Common Armodafinil prescriptions

  • Armodafinil
    150mg tablet

  • Armodafinil
    200mg tablet

  • Armodafinil
    250mg tablet

  • Armodafinil
    50mg tablet

How to take Armodafinil

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • For daytime wakefulness: Take armodafinil in the morning.

  • During shift work: Take armodafinil 1 hour before you begin working.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

  • This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • For daytime wakefulness: Take armodafinil in the morning.

  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

  • During shift work: Take armodafinil 1 hour before you begin working.

Armodafinil contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to armodafinil or modafinil.

Armodafinil warnings

  • This medicine can be habit-forming. Do not use more than your prescribed dose. Call your doctor if you think your medicine is not working.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

  • If you use a CPAP machine while you sleep, continue to use it. Armodafinil is not a substitute for a CPAP machine.

  • Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.

  • Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, heart or blood vessel disease, high blood pressure, or a history of mental health problems, depression, or drug or alcohol abuse.

  • This medicine may cause the following problems:Serious skin reactionsSerious allergic reactions that may involve multiple organs, such as your liver or kidneysUnusual mood or behavior

  • This medicine may prevent hormonal birth control from working. Use a second form of birth control while you are taking armodafinil, and continue to use both forms for 1 month after your last dose.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Armodafinil interactions

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

  • This medicine can be habit-forming. Do not use more than your prescribed dose. Call your doctor if you think your medicine is not working.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

  • Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.

  • If you use a CPAP machine while you sleep, continue to use it. Armodafinil is not a substitute for a CPAP machine.

  • Do not drive or do anything dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.

  • Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

  • Some medicines can affect how armodafinil works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following: Carbamazepine, clomipramine, cyclosporine, diazepam, erythromycin, ketoconazole, midazolam, omeprazole, phenobarbital, phenytoin, propranolol, rifampin, or triazolamBirth control pillBlood thinner (including warfarin)MAO inhibitor

Armodafinil side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Chest pain, trouble breathing

  • Fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat

  • Blistering, peeling, red skin rash

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Sores or white patches on your lips, mouth, or throat

  • Unusual mood or behavior, thoughts of suicide

  • Feeling agitated, aggressive, confused, depressed, excited, or irritated

  • Fever, swollen, painful, or tender lymph glands in neck, armpit, or groin

  • Yellow skin or eyes

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Dry mouth

  • Headache

  • Headache or dizziness

  • Mild skin rash or itching