Armodafinil is a powerful drug that has gained popularity in recent years. It is used to treat excessive sleepiness caused by narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome, and shift work disorder. Armodafinil is also prescribed off-label for other conditions such as bipolar disorder, depression, and schizophrenia. In this Armodafinil review, we will discuss the drug in detail, including its effects, side effects, and how it works.
Armodafinil is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that promotes wakefulness. It is structurally distinct from other wakefulness-promoting drugs and has a different mechanism of action. Armodafinil binds to the dopamine transporter and inhibits dopamine reuptake, resulting in increased dopamine concentrations in the brain.
Armodafinil also has a weak affinity for norepinephrine and serotonin transporters. Armodafinil increases histamine release in the hypothalamus, which results in increased wakefulness and decreased appetite. Armodafinil also increases orexin levels in the brain, which leads to increased wakefulness and decreased appetite.
The exact mechanism by which Armodafinil produces its wakefulness-promoting effects is unknown. Armodafinil has a half-life of 12-15 hours and is metabolized by the liver. Armodafinil is excreted in the urine as an unchanged drug and metabolites.
Armodafinil is indicated for the treatment of narcolepsy, shift work sleep disorder, and obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome. Armodafinil is also indicated for the treatment of fatigue in multiple sclerosis. Armodafinil has been shown to be effective in the treatment of fatigue in clinical trials. Armodafinil has also been shown to be effective in the treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness in clinical trials.
The most common side effects of Armodafinil include headache, nausea, anxiety, insomnia, and dizziness. Armodafinil should be used with caution in patients with a history of drug abuse or dependence. Armodafinil is a Schedule IV controlled substance. Armodafinil should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Armodafinil is not recommended for use in children under the age of 18 years.
Armodafinil is available as tablets for oral administration in 50 mg and 100 mg strengths. The recommended dose of Armodafinil for narcolepsy or shift work sleep disorder is 200 mg taken orally once a day as needed to achieve wakefulness. Armodafinil may be taken with or without food. Armodafinil should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed.
Armodafinil should be used with caution in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease, including hypertension, congestive heart failure, left ventricular hypertrophy, recent myocardial infarction, or arrhythmia. Armodafinil should also be used with caution in patients with a history of psychiatric disorders, including mania, bipolar disorder, or psychosis.
Armodafinil should not be used in patients with severe hepatic impairment. For more on an Armodafinil review, check online.