Artvigil is a drug that is mostly used to treat those who are too sleepy because of sleep disorders like narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, or shift work sleep disorder. It has the main ingredient, armodafinil, in it, which makes it more awake. Artvigil works by changing chemicals in the brain that decide when to sleep or wake up.
Is Artvigil Addictive?
Clinical trials show that armodafinil, the main ingredient in Artvigil, is less likely to cause addiction than other powerful drugs like amphetamines. But, as with any drug that affects the central nervous system, there is still a chance of becoming dependent on or abusing it, especially if it is misused for a long time.
Even though Artvigil may have a lower chance of addiction, it’s still important to take it exactly as the physician tells the patient and carefully follow their directions. Stopping Artvigil all of a sudden after taking it for a long time can cause withdrawal symptoms, which can be a sign of dependence.
Risks of Long-Term Artvigil Usage
Using Artvigil for a long time may come with several risks, such as:
Tolerance
Some recipients may become used to the effects of Artvigil over time and need larger amounts to achieve the same level of alertness.
Dependence
Long-term usage of Artvigil can make a person physically and mentally dependent on the drug, to the point where they feel they can’t do anything without it.
Withdrawal Symptoms
If patients stop taking Artvigil all of a sudden after taking it for a long time, they might experience withdrawal symptoms like tiredness, trouble sleeping, sadness, and mood swings.
Effects on the heart and blood vessels
Using Artvigil for a long time may increase the heart rate and blood pressure, which are two risks that may affect the heart and blood vessels.
Effects on the Mind
Some patients may experience mental side effects like worry, restlessness, or confusion after long-term use.
Long-term Artvigil users require daily monitoring by their physician to determine whether they are experiencing any negative side effects and to make any necessary adjustments to their treatment.
Alternatives to Artvigil
Managing extreme sleepiness and sleep problems can be done without drugs or other medicines.
Some examples are:
Modafinil
Modafinil is a drug that is similar to armodafinil and may be given instead to some patients.
Making changes to the lifestyle
Good sleep habits, sticking to a normal sleep routine, and staying away from triggers like coffee late in the day can all help patients sleep better and feel less sleepy.
Other Medications
If patients feel too sleepy, a PCP may suggest other medicines or treatments based on the root cause.
It is very important to talk to a healthcare provider about the pros and cons of Artvigil and other medicines to find the best way to handle the situation. Also, patients should only take Artvigil as their medical doctor tells them to and never share their medicine with other patients to lower the risk of abuse and addiction.
