Modafinil Aurobindo (Modafinil)

Modafinil is a wakefulness‑promoting agent indicated for several sleep‑related disorders.

• Narcolepsy: reduces daytime sleepiness and improves alertness.
• Obstructive sleep apnea (excessive daytime sleepiness): alleviates residual sleepiness when used alongside primary therapy.
• Shift work sleep disorder: helps maintain alertness during scheduled work hours.

• Modafinil promotes wakefulness primarily by inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine, thereby increasing extracellular dopamine concentrations in key brain regions. It also modulates hypothalamic orexin neurons and influences other neurotransmitter systems such as norepinephrine, serotonin, and histamine, collectively enhancing cortical activation and reducing sleep propensity.

Modafinil may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to serious.

Common Side Effects

• Headache
• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe rash or Stevens‑Johnson syndrome
• Psychiatric symptoms such as hallucinations or mania
• Cardiovascular events including hypertension or arrhythmia
• Hypersensitivity reactions
• Liver injury

Before initiating therapy, clinicians should evaluate individual risk factors and monitor patients regularly.

• Cardiovascular assessment: review blood pressure and heart disease history.
• Psychiatric review: monitor for anxiety, depression, or psychosis.
• Discontinuation: taper under medical supervision to avoid rebound sleepiness.
• Drug interaction check: assess concomitant CYP3A4 modulators.
• Pregnancy and lactation: use only if benefits outweigh potential risks.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25°C in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Modafinil can interact with several medication classes; careful assessment is required.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin): may increase plasma concentrations.
• CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines): may diminish wake‑promoting effect.
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors: risk of serotonin syndrome.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Oral contraceptives: may reduce hormonal efficacy.
• Antihypertensives: potential additive hypotensive effect.
• Antacids (alkaline): may affect drug absorption.