DESCRIPTION
Artvigil 150 mg consists of Armodafinil which is a non-amphetamine Central Nervous System (CNS) stimulant. It is used to combat daytime sleepiness due to conditions such as Narcolepsy, Shift Worker Sleep Disorder and Obstructive Sleep apnea. The onset of action of this medication is seen within 30 to 60 minutes and the duration of action is for around 10 to 12 hours. Armodafinil is said to be more potent than Modafinil.Â
How does Artvigil 150 mg work?
The precise mechanism of Armodafinil is not yet known. Below are the key pharmacological actions:Â
- Dopamine Transporter (DAT) Inhibition: Armodafinil selectively binds to the dopamine transporter and prevents the reuptake of dopamine which then causes increase in the extracellular dopamine levels.Â
- Monoamine effects: Armodafinil increases the levels of norepinephrine that promotes vigilance and arousal.
- Neuropeptide activation: Armodafinil stimulates the orexin-hypocretin system in the hypothalamus which triggers the release of histamine, a neurotransmitter that dictates your sleep-wake cycle
USAGE
Artvigil 150 mg is used for:
DOSAGE
Artvigil 150 mg should be taken once in the morning for sleep disorders and an hour before the shift for Shift Worker Sleep Disorders. If you miss a dose of the tablet, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the previous dose. Do not take a double dose for the missed dose. Â
SIDE EFFECTS
Common side effects are:
- Nervous system: Headache, dizziness
- Gastrointestinal issues: Nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, dry mouth, constipation
- Other: Decreased appetite, thirst and excessive sweating
- Sleep disturbances: Insomnia or trouble falling asleep
Serious side effects are:
- Severe skin reactions: Rashes, blisters, peeling skin or mouth sores
- Psychiatric effects: Anxiety, depression, hallucinations and suicidal thoughts
- Cardiovascular issues: Chest pain, irregular or pounding heartbeat
- Allergic reactions: Swelling of face, lips, tongue or difficulty in breathing
Interactions
Drug-drug Interactions
- Armodafinil can interact with medications like SSRIs e.g. citalopram.
- Armodafinil can make hormonal contraceptives less effective and increase the risk of pregnancy.Â
- Armodafinil when combined with opioids can lower their blood levels and lead to extreme pain.Â
- Drugs like omeprazole, diazepam and phenytoin may stay in the system longer due to armodafinil and increase the risk of toxicity and severe side effects.Â
- Armodafinil can affect the blood levels of anticoagulants like warfarin making it less effective.Â
- Coadministration of Artvigil 150 mg with Citalopram can increase the risk of an irregular heartbeat.Â
Drug-Food Interactions
- Grapefruit or grapefruit juice should be avoided with Artvigil 150 mg as it can increase the level of modafinil in the body.Â
- Concomitant use of alcohol and Artvigil 150 mg tablets can increase the risk of serious side effects.Â
- Caffeine is also a Central Nervous system stimulant and combining it with Armodafinil can lead to additive effects.Â
Precautions & Warnings
- Use the medication with caution as there is a risk of misuse and dependency if taken in higher doses.Â
- Do not administer the medication too late in the day as it can lead to insomnia.Â
- Avoid self-administration.
- Do not use the medication if you are allergic to armodafinil or any other component of the medication.Â
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.Â
- Use with caution if you have a history of depression, mania or anxiety.Â
- Avoid alcohol consumption when using this medication as it can increase the risk of dizziness.Â
- Do not stop the medication suddenly.Â
- Do not drive or operate heavy and hazardous machineries.Â
CONCLUSION
Artvigil 150 mg is widely used to treat excessive daytime sleepiness caused by Narcolepsy, Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Shift Worker Sleep Disorder. It enhances focus, alertness and cognitive function but does not cure underlying sleep issues. Long-term use carries a potential for addiction and dependency and thus these medications should be used with utmost safety. Always use the medication under medical supervision only.Â
FAQs
What is the active ingredient in Artvigil 150 mg?
The active ingredient in Artvigil 150 mg is Armodafinil.Â
How long does Artvigil 150 mg take to work?
Artvigil 150 mg takes around 30 to 60 minutes to start working.Â
Is Artvigil 150 mg a stimulant?
Artvigil 150 mg consists of Armodafinil which falls under the category of eugeroics, a type of stimulant. So yes, artvigil 150 mg is a stimulant.Â
Can Artvigil 150 mg cause dependency?
Yes. artvigil 150 mg can cause dependency if used more than prescribed.Â
What are the common side effects of Armodafinil?
The common side effects of armodafinil are headache, dizziness, nausea, insomnia, etc.Â
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