Armodafinil
Nuvigil is a prescription wakefulness-promoting medication containing armodafinil, designed to help patients stay awake who suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness associated with conditions like narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, and shift work sleep disorder. It is typically used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include other therapies.
Nuvigil is a prescription wakefulness agent used to treat excessive sleepiness caused by narcolepsy, sleep apnea, or shift work.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 710995
- Generic
- Nuvigil
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Nuvigil is FDA-approved to treat excessive daytime sleepiness associated with narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea (as adjunctive therapy), and shift work disorder. It is not a replacement for adequate sleep and is intended for patients whose conditions have been properly diagnosed.
The exact mechanism of action is not fully understood. Like its counterpart modafinil, armodafinil is believed to promote wakefulness by affecting dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain, though specific binding sites and pathways have not been definitively characterized.
Nuvigil is a Schedule IV controlled substance with potential for abuse. Common side effects may include headache, nausea, and insomnia. It may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. Patients should inform their doctor of all medications and medical history before use, as serious skin reactions have been reported. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is recommended.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy