Why is Nuvigil a controlled substance?

Nuvigil (armodafinil) is a controlled substance because it has a risk of abuse, misuse, and dependence. It has also been subject to diversion. It is classified by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a Schedule IV controlled substance. This means it has a lower potential for abuse compared to drugs classified in Schedule III, II, or I.

To lower your risk for abuse and dependence, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. They will prescribe the lowest dose for the shortest period of time needed to help you with your symptoms. If you have been taking Nuvigil for a long period of time, ask your doctor if you need to slowly taper down your dose before stopping the medication completely. This can help you avoid withdrawal symptoms.

What is Nuvigil?

Nuvigil is FDA approved to treat people with obstructive sleep apnea, narcolepsy, or shift work disorder. In people with obstructive sleep apnea, it is only meant to help with excessive sleepiness. It does not treat any underlying cause of obstruction in the airways.

Nuvigil works by improving wakefulness. This can be helpful for people who are very sleepy due to certain medication conditions. Nuvigil is available as tablets that are taken by mouth. Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, and headache.

Is Nuvigil habit forming?

Yes, Nuvigil has the potential to be habit forming. Some people experience euphoric effects from taking Nuvigil, and it can change the way you think and feel. These properties can lead to addiction. Do not take more medication than how it is prescribed to you, and only take Nuvigil as directed by your doctor.

Related questions

• How long does it take for Nuvigil to work?
• Can you have narcolepsy and insomnia?
• What are the early signs of narcolepsy?

Does Nuvigil cause withdrawal symptoms?

It can. Because Nuvigil can cause dependence (when your body relies on the medication to function normally), if you stop taking it all of a sudden you can experience withdrawal. Some withdrawal symptoms you may experience after stopping Nuvigil include:

• Shaking
• Sweating
• Chills
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Confusion
• Aggression
• Abnormal heart rhythm

Rarely, some people experience seizures and suicidal thoughts after abruptly stopping Nuvigil. If you want to stop taking Nuvigil, consult your doctor first. They can help you slowly lower your dose to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Is Nuvigil an opioid?

No, Nuvigil is not an opioid. It belongs to a class of medications called wakefulness-promoting agents. Opioids are pain-relieving medications. Some examples include fentanyl, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine. Opioid medications are also controlled substances, because they have a risk of abuse and dependence. However, most opioid medications have a higher potential for these problems than Nuvigil.

When was Nuvigil approved?

Nuvigil was approved by the FDA in 2007. It was classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance by the DEA based on the Controlled Substance Act.

This is not all the information you need to know about Nuvigil (armodafinil) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.