Armodafinil, commonly known by its brand name Nuvigil, is a prescription medication categorized as a wakefulness-promoting agent. It is a single-isomer compound of modafinil, specifically the R-enantiomer, which is believed to be responsible for the majority of modafinil's pharmacologic activity. Armodafinil is primarily prescribed to improve wakefulness in adults who experience excessive sleepiness associated with certain sleep disorders. These include narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and shift work sleep disorder (SWSD). While it helps manage excessive daytime sleepiness, it does not cure these underlying sleep disorders. Armodafinil is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and dependence, as noted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Its use requires careful medical supervision.
Armodafinil has a half-life of approximately 15 hours, which contributes to its long-lasting wakefulness-promoting effects. It is typically taken once daily in the morning, or approximately an hour before a work shift for those with shift work sleep disorder, as described in FDA prescribing information. It can be taken with or without food. The medication works by affecting certain neurotransmitters in the brain involved in the sleep-wake cycle. While effective for its approved indications, it is not intended for mild fatigue or to replace adequate sleep. Its off-label uses are not supported by the same level of evidence as its on-label uses, and any off-label consideration should be discussed comprehensively with a healthcare provider.
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Known interactions
Category rule: supplement × medication
Note
Some supplements change how the body processes medications (absorption, liver enzymes, or additive effects).
Specific pairs are checked against a licensed drug database and shown with their own severity. Always confirm with your provider or pharmacist.
Category rule: vitamin × medication
Note
Certain vitamins interact with specific medications (e.g., vitamin K with blood thinners).
Specific pairs are checked against a licensed source; confirm with your provider.
Frequently asked
Sources referenced
["U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Prescribing Information", "Mayo Clinic", "National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS)", "MedlinePlus", "PubChem", "DrugBank", "Examine.com", "U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)"]
Stackwise compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician.
Related compounds
Others in the medication category or studied for the same goals.
