Artvigil 250

Artvigil 250 mg contains Armodafinil,  a wakefulness promoting agent used for 

• Narcolepsy- chronic neurological disorder that impairs the brain’s ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles
• Shift Worker Sleep Disorder- circadian rhythm disorder that affects people working non-traditional hours 
• Obstructive Sleep apnea- This occurs when throat muscles relax during sleep, blocking the airway. 

Armodafinil works slightly differently from the traditional CNS stimulants and provides a longer, stable duration of action. 

Composition:

Active Ingredient: Armodafinil

Inactive ingredients: 

• Microcrystalline cellulose
• Croscarmellose sodium
• Lactose Monohydrate
• Povidone
• Magnesium stearate
• Pregelatinized starch

Mechanism of action:

• Armodafinil binds to the dopamine transporter that blocks the reabsorption of dopamine by the neurons. Since there is a larger amount of dopamine in the brain synapses there is enhanced alertness and focus. 
• Aromadinil targets the tuberomammillary nucleus (TMN) and some other regions that regulate the natural sleep-wake cycle. 
• It also has secondary effects on neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, histamine, orexin, etc.  

USES

Artvigil 250 mg is used for:

• Narcolepsy
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Shift worker sleep disorder
• Cognitive enhancers
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Key Features

DOSAGE 

The right dose depends on the condition being treated, along with factors such as age and overall health. The general dosing for most of the patients is taken in the morning but for Shift worker Sleep disorders, it should be taken an hour before the shift starts. Always follow the instructions of the GP and do not increase or decrease your dose without medical advice. 

SIDE EFFECTS 

Common side effects are:

• Nervous system: Headache, dizziness
• Sleep disturbances: Insomnia or trouble falling asleep
• Gastrointestinal issues: Nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, dry mouth, constipation
• Other: Decreased appetite, thirst and excessive sweating

Serious side effects are:

• Severe skin reactions: Rashes, blisters, peeling skin or mouth sores
• Psychiatric effects: Anxiety, depression, hallucinations and suicidal thoughts
• Allergic reactions: Swelling of face, lips, tongue or difficult in breathing
• Cardiovascular issues: Chest pain, irregular or pounding heartbeat. 

INTERACTIONS 

Avoid or do not use Armodafinil with the following medications: MAOIs like Phenelzine (sold as Nardil), Tranylcypromine (sold as Parnate) and Isocarboxazid (sold as Marplan); Amphetamine or dextroamphetamine; Procarbazine; Pemoline (CNS Stimulant)

Armodafinil might also interact with the following: Diazepam; Phenytoin; Barbiturates like phenobarbital; Cyclosporine; Antifungal medications such as Itraconazole, Ketoconazole; Carbamazepine; Anticoagulants like warfarin; Beta blockers like propranolol. 

It can also have an interaction with dietary compounds like grapefruit or grapefruit juice, alcohol and caffeine. 

PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS

Consult your GP before taking Artvigil 250 mg  if you have:

• Cardiovascular issues or high blood pressure
• Liver or kidney impairment
• History of anxiety, depression or psychosis
• Are pregnant, planning to get pregnant or breastfeeding
• Allergy to armodafinil or any other inactive ingredients

Avoid driving or operating heavy machineries until you know how the medication reacts for you. 

Use the medication only as directed by the GP. 

Conclusion 

Artvigil 250 mg is a long-acting Armodafinil formulation that helps improve wakefulness in adults with excessive daytime sleepiness caused by narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnoea or shift work sleep disorder. When used as directed by a healthcare professional, it can improve alertness and daytime functioning while supporting a consistent sleep–wake schedule. 

FAQs

1. What is Artvigil 250 mg?
Artvigil 250 mg is a medication that is used to treat excessive sleep disorders.

2. What are the severe side effects of Artvigil 250 mg?
The severe side effects of Artvigil 250 mg are rashes, blisters, peeling skin, anxiety, depression, etc.

3. For how long does Artvigil 250 mg last?
Artvigil 250 mg generally lasts for 12 to 15 hours.

4. Does armodafinil react with other medications?
Yes. Notably it reacts with other medications such as hormonal contraceptives, SSRIs, anticoagulants, antidepressants, etc.

5. Is Artvigil 250 mg safe during pregnancy?
No. Artvigil 250 mg is not safe during pregnancy.