Description

Modalert 100mg is a medication primarily used to treat narcolepsy, sleep apnea, and shift work sleep disorder. It is a brand name for the drug modafinil, which is a wakefulness-promoting agent.

Key Information About Modalert 100mg:

• Generic Name: Modafinil
• Brand Name: Modalert (produced by Sun Pharma)
• Dosage: 100 mg is a standard starting dose, typically taken once a day. Some people may take up to 200 mg per day, depending on the condition being treated and the healthcare provider’s recommendation.

Indications:

Modalert is prescribed for conditions that cause excessive daytime sleepiness, including:

• Narcolepsy: A disorder characterized by extreme daytime sleepiness and sudden episodes of sleep.
• Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): A condition where the airway becomes blocked during sleep, leading to frequent awakenings and daytime sleepiness.
• Shift Work Sleep Disorder (SWSD): A condition in which people who work non-traditional hours (e.g., night shifts) experience disrupted sleep patterns and excessive daytime sleepiness.

Mechanism of Action:

Modalert (modafinil) promotes wakefulness through its effect on the brain’s neurotransmitters. It is believed to increase the levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, and histamine in the brain, all of which contribute to increased alertness and reduced fatigue.

Dosage and Administration:

• Dosage: The usual recommended starting dose is 100 mg per day.
  • For narcolepsy and sleep apnea, Modalert is typically taken in the morning.
  • For shift work disorder, it is usually taken about 1 hour before the start of the work shift.
• The medication is typically available in 100 mg or 200 mg tablets.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose (200 mg daily) unless instructed by your healthcare provider.

Side Effects:

• Common side effects:
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Anxiety or nervousness
  • Insomnia (difficulty sleeping)

• Serious side effects (less common):
  • Skin rashes (which may be indicative of serious allergic reactions)
  • Severe psychiatric symptoms, including agitation, hallucinations, or mania
  • Heart problems, including palpitations or high blood pressure

Warnings and Precautions:

• Allergic reactions: If you develop a skin rash or other signs of a severe allergic reaction, stop taking the medication and consult your doctor immediately.
• Dependence and misuse: Although modafinil is generally considered to have a low potential for addiction, there is a risk of misuse, particularly in individuals with a history of substance abuse.
• Liver problems: Use caution if you have a history of liver issues. Modafinil may not be recommended for people with severe liver dysfunction.
• Pregnancy: Modafinil is classified as a Category C drug for pregnancy, which means it may be harmful to the fetus, and should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary.
• Breastfeeding: Modafinil can pass into breast milk, so it should be used with caution if you’re nursing.

Contraindications:

• Allergy to modafinil or any component of the formulation.
• Caution is required if you have a history of heart problems or mental health issues, as Modalert may exacerbate these conditions.