Of all the benefits of Provigil, the one that most patients appreciate the most is that it really works. There are a lot of stimulants out there that are supposed to keep you from feeling drowsy or falling asleep, but many of them are not half as effective as they claim to be. Additionally, many over the counter wakefulness aids are just caffeine, which can cause jitters and discomfort, especially in the doses needed to keep sleep deprived people awake.
Effective
Provigil is incredibly effective for people who are suffering from severe daytime sleepiness. If your job requires that you change shifts often, such as nurses or doctors, you probably have a hard time adjusting each time you have to switch. Provigil helps improve wakefulness as well as attentiveness and mental alertness. You will not only be awake, you’ll also be capable of doing your job.
Virtually No Side Effects
The side effects of Provigil are usually mild, if there are any. An uncomfortable and somewhat serious skin rash can occur, especially in the first 12 weeks of use. If you experience skin rash, consult a doctor about whether or not it is safe to continue to use Provigil. Additionally, there can be serious side effects if Provigil is combined with other medications, so carefully read any contraindications indicated on the packaging of Provigil as well as any other medication you are taking.
Most patients experience no side effects at all. They are simply able to stay awake and are not afraid of suddenly falling asleep. Additionally, patients are able to function in their jobs as they want to.
Low Dependence Rate
While there is some risk that you will become dependent on Provigil, due to the release of dopamine in the brain, the likelihood is much lower than with other stimulants. One of the benefits of Provigil is that it works well without creating the same dependence as other stimulants such as amphetamines. There is some risk of developing an addiction, but for most adult patients the risk is relatively low, especially when compared with other stimulants.
No Peaks and Valleys
Rather than the quick and frustrating ups and downs of caffeine and other stimulants, Provigil provides a consistent and calm wakefulness. Patients report feeling no sense of a racing brain followed by periods of dullness, a side effect commonly experienced when patients take other stimulants. In this way it is an effective and ideal medication for people with narcolepsy and other long term wakefulness problems.