Provigil and Depression: What Users Say

• Anonymous
• March 3, 2010

For Depression "I was initially prescribed this medication to address both a mild sleep apnea problem and persistent depression. Initially, it was indeed like a miracle drug. I felt better immediately and continued so for about a year. However, the drug then quickly became less effective and actually began to make my depression much worse. I very briefly switched to Nuvigil, but I continued with the worsening depression and ended up having to stop the medication. Within a few days of discontinuing the medication, I felt considerably better. I went on to other medications to help with the depression and fatigue. Provigil/Nuvigil has been a blessing for many people. However, as with many medications, their continued use can sometimes backfire."

• Anonymous
• July 18, 2008

For Multiple Sclerosis "I too have MS and have been taking this drug since it came out—about 6 years. Because Provigil is not an amphetamine, it doesn't make you 'high', you just feel like you have energy. Provigil does not interfere with your normal sleeping pattern if you take it in the morning. I feel like my old self when I take it. I also know now when I do not take it (I'm on 200 mg). I can feel the difference, what I thought was depression was actually a lack of energy."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 16, 2012

For Narcolepsy "I have narcolepsy with cataplexy and am currently taking Provigil during the day when I first wake up. I have noticed that my cataplexy attacks are fewer, but it doesn't stop them all. I still have at least 3 big attacks a week. I have found that I am more alert taking Ritalin, but have more cataplectic attacks. I am currently working with my doc to up the dosage because the 200 mg is not enough. I have had some side effects with the medicine: mood swings, becoming fixated on a task or project, confusion, headache, and some depression. I am currently a full-time student, and for me, taking Provigil to prevent attacks vs. being more alert is the best option for me at this point."

• hea...
• May 18, 2011

For Multiple Sclerosis "Provigil gets 9 out of 10 ONLY because of the extreme headache I get when I don't take it A--with lots of water (and a little food in my stomach) and B--before 10 a.m. I've had Multiple Sclerosis for 7 years now and have been on Provigil for the last few years to fight the fatigue and lack of focus associated with MS. And it even has the 'bonus' side effect of making me HAPPY again. Most people who have MS know that depression is also a silent struggle that never gets acknowledged. Provigil makes me physically less 'worn out,' makes me mentally alert, and makes me emotionally just in a better mood. I guess I can't say enough good things about it. If you can tolerate the headache you might get, this medicine is WORTH IT."