Modafinil
Provigil (modafinil) is a prescription wakefulness-promoting agent used to treat excessive sleepiness caused by narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, and shift work sleep disorder. It helps patients stay awake during normal waking hours by affecting certain neurotransmitters in the brain.
A prescription medication used to promote wakefulness in people with sleep disorders that cause excessive daytime sleepiness.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 219484
- Generic
- Provigil
- 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.
Provigil is FDA-approved for treating excessive daytime sleepiness associated with narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea (as adjunct therapy), and shift work sleep disorder. It is not a replacement for adequate sleep and is intended for patients who have difficulty staying awake during their normal active hours.
The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but Provigil is believed to increase dopamine levels in the brain and affect other neurotransmitters that regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Unlike traditional stimulants, it promotes wakefulness with a lower potential for dependence and fewer cardiovascular effects.
Provigil is a Schedule IV controlled substance and may cause side effects including headache, nausea, nervousness, and insomnia. It can reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives and may interact with other medications. Patients should be monitored for skin reactions and psychiatric symptoms. Not recommended for children under 18.
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