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Trying to determine what Nuvigil dosage you should be taking for the best results?
Nuvigil, sometimes sold under the name Armodafinil, is a nootropic agent capable of producing a state of alert wakefulness without the accompanying jitters, agitation or jaw-clenching often experiences when taking common stimulants.
It is primarily prescribed for patients who have been diagnosed with narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea ,and shift-worker sleep disorder.
In some countries it can be prescribed for off-label uses such as learning disabilities, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), mood disorders, or certain forms of cognitive impairment.
Classified as a eugeroic, or wakefulness promoting drug, Nuvigil is used off-label by nootropic users for cognitive enhancement, increased motivation and productivity, as well as relief from excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue. It has been shown to help offset jet lag and, in some users, it has a mood elevating effect.
With so many beneficial uses, it is understandable why Nuvigil has gained popularity among students, entrepreneurs and others wanting a strong mental edge combined with increased productivity.
Because of the high level of non-prescription use, it is especially important that you do your research to determine a safe dosage for Nuvigil. More does not necessarily mean better with this highly powerful study pill and drug.
What is the recommended Nuvigil dose per day and how should you be using this drug?
Energy
Cognition
Motivation- Wakefulness-boosting stimulant
- Enhances motivation and focus
- Shown to boost mental performance
Is Nuvigil the Same Thing as Modafinil?
Related Topics
- What is Armodafinil?
- What is Nuvigil?
- Armodafinil vs. Modafinil
- User Review
- Typical Nuvigil Experiences
- How it Works
- Nuvigil for ADHD
- Effects on Depression & Anxiety
- Dosage Recommendations
- How to Take
- Reported Side Effects
- Withdrawal & Tolerance
- Prescription Information
- Buying Nuvigil
- Generic Nuvigil Brands
- Is Armodafinil Legal?
- Is Nuvigil Safe?
- Comparison to Adderall
Although Nuvigil is manufactured and marketed by the same company who held the patent for Provigil, the two drugs have differences in their chemical structures, side effects, and dosage requirements. Users also report some differences in the effects.
Nuvigil is the brand name version of the compound Armodafinil. This compound is closely related to Modafinil.
The difference molecularly between Nuvigil and Modafinil is that Nuvigil has been synthesized using only the R-enantiomer (mirror image) of the two possible isomers (R- and S-), both of which are present in Modafinil in equal proportions (which makes it a racemic compound).
In drugs, sometimes it turns out that only one isomer, or enantiomer, is responsible for the beneficial effects the user experiences. In these cases, the other enantiomer is either largely inactive or less active then its mate, and therefore does not have much overall effect, or in some cases even is the cause of most of the negative effects of the compound.
When this is found to be the case, researchers work to isolate the single enantiomer to create a “purer” version of the drug. Drugs created with the single beneficial enantiomer in order to produce the desired physiologic effects are called “enantiopure.” Nuvigil is one such enantiopure drug.
This purer status can sometimes render the drug free of unwanted side effects which may have prohibited some users from taking the prior version. With Nuvigil, there are conflicting reports regarding side effects.
Some users have reported experiencing a crisp, clean sense of focus and motivation along with an enhanced sense of wakefulness. Other users, including some who had successfully used Modafinil in the past, report experiencing increased nervousness and agitation. This may indicate that Nuvigil’s effects are more dependent than Modafinil on the individual user’s brain chemistry.
Another difference with Nuvigil, owing to the upgraded pureness of the drug, is that its half-life is 13 hours, making it longer lasting. Many users report they do not experience any disruption of their normal sleep cycle when taking Nuvigil, while a small percentage report experiencing some degree of insomnia.
Prescribed Nuvigil Uses
Just like its parent drug Provigil, Nuvigil has been categorized as a Schedule IV prescription drug by the FDA in the United States, and is approved as a treatment for narcolepsy and shift-work sleep disorder, and as an adjunct treatment for obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome.
Narcolepsy is a neurological sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and for the person to fall asleep randomly and suddenly during the day. Multiple double-blind placebo-controlled studies have shown that Nuvigil reduces excessive sleepiness and improves wakefulness in narcoleptics.
In one study, patients given Nuvigil had significantly increased mean sleep latency times compared to baseline as measured on the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test. Patients given placebo actually had a decreased mean sleep latency time compared to baseline levels.
Shift-work sleep disorder can occur when a person has to work nighttime shifts at their job. It causes excessive sleepiness while awake at night, and can cause insomnia when trying to sleep during the day.
In one study, Nuvigil was seen to increase mean sleep latency time as measured by the Multiple Sleep Latency test. Patient sleep diaries revealed that Nuvigil significantly deceased sleepiness during nighttime work shifts and laboratory testing shifts, as well as the commute home.
Obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is a medical condition that causes breathing issues while sleeping, that can lead to poor quality sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness. Even with standard treatment for OSAHS, some people still experience excessive sleepiness, and Nuvigil has been used as an adjunct treatment for this.
In one study using Nuvigil in patients with OSAHS who were being treated with nCPAP (nasal continuous positive airway pressure), Nuvigil was seen to increase mean sleep latency time on the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test. Scores on the patient-administered Epworth Sleepiness Scale also improved.
- Increases energy, wakefulness and motivation
- Boosts mental performance and focus
- Supports memory and cognition
Off-Label Uses
Any use of Nuvigil that is not one of the above described sleep disorders is technically considered an off-label use. Common off-label uses of Nuvigil include reducing disease-related fatigue, for imrpoving the symptoms of ADHD, and as a cognitive enhancing smart drug.
Not much research exists using Nuvigil for ADHD, but there is a large amount of studies done using Provigil, and it is believed that the results can be reasonably extrapolated.
In multiple double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trials, Provigil has been seen to reduce the symptoms of ADHD, as measured by a variety of tests, including the Teacher and Parent ADHD Rating Scale-IV, Conners Rating Scales, and the Clinical Global Impressions-Improvement scale.
In one trial, Provigil was tested against a placebo and against a traditional ADHD medication, dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine) to test for Provigil’s efficacy. It was seen that both active medications significantly improved scores on the DSM-IV ADHD Behavior Checklist for Adults compared to placebo, and the effects between Provigil and dextroamphetamine were considered to be very similar.
Both Provigil and Nuvigil are commonly used off-label as cognitive enhancers. Users report that they have improved concentration, focus, learning ability, and memory when they take these drugs. The stimulating effects of these eugeroic compounds are useful for keeping users focused on the task at hand and motivated to continue working, whether it be studying for an exam at university, or preparing for a presentation at work.
Provigil has been seen in research studies to have cognitive effects. In two literature reviews done of the compiled research at the time, there were general trends across the studies showing that Modafinil may improve memory, specifically working and episodic memory, as well as improve executive function.
In one study, participants were given either Modafinil or a placebo and asked to complete a battery of neuropsychological tests. Compared to the scores seen in the placebo group, scores in the Provigil group were significantly improved in memory tests of digit span and visual pattern recognition, as well as a spatial planning task, and a stop-signal reaction time test.
There has not been any research done directly using Nuvigil as a nootropic, however cognitive enhancing effects have been measured in studies focused on treating sleep disorders.
One study on narcolepsy found that in Nuvigil patients there were significant improvements in attention and memory when tested on the Cognitive Drug Research battery of test compared to placebo patients. Similar results were seen in a study on shift-work sleep disorder patients, with improvements to standardized tests of attention and memory.
The Dosage Difference
Being an enantiopure version of Modafinil means Nuvigil is more potent than its predecessor. Increased potency refers to the amount needed to achieve the desired effects, not that the effects are exponentially increased.
It is important to only take the recommended dose when using any eugeroic drug.
While Modafinil is often taken in doses of 200mg twice each day, Nuvigil is usually taken in a single daily dose of 150mg. However there are many who say that these doses are not entirely equivalent; 150 mg of Nuvigil feels much stronger than 200 mg of Modafinil.
For this reason, you may find that taking only half or two-thirds of an Nuvigil 150 mg tablet is sufficient for you to see excellent results.
It is recommended to take your daily Nuvigil dosage first thing in the morning. The effects will taper off towards the end of the day, allowing you to sleep normally and to awaken at your usual hour.
For those unique occasions calling for extended (or all-night) work or study sessions, a second dose may be beneficial to maintain mental acuity and motivation throughout the work period.
However, you should only take a second dose when you know you can devote time to getting a proper sleep the next night so that you do not become reliant on the drug to stay awake.
Side Effects
Nuvigil is generally well tolerated when taken by adults at recommended dosages. Some common mild side effects have been reported though, including headache, nausea, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety, diarrhea, depression, and upper abdominal pain. Less frequent, but more serious side effects include rash, allergic reaction in liver, swelling, shortness of breath and fever.
Headache is the most commonly reported side effect. Some users have reported that it may sometimes be offset by supplementing with a good source of Choline such as Citicoline or Alpha-GPC.
Many people have mild side effects when they first begin taking any new strong drugs. This is a typical experience as the body adjusts to the effects of the drug. Mild side effects may occur during the first 2-3 weeks of taking Nuvigil, but then typically subside after the initial adjustment period.
If you continue to experience side effects, you may want to decrease your dosage or consider switching to Modafinil or Adrafinil to see if either of those is able to produce better results for you. Users of Nuvigil should consult with their doctor before (and while) taking this drug to assure the best possible experience and benefits from it.
Insomnia is a common effect that is not a true negative reaction to Nuvigil, but typically just due to poor dosage timing. Because of its long half-life and stimulating nature, it is recommended to take your Nuvigil dosage early in the morning. This can help the drug clear your body and not cause any sleep disturbances.
There is a small chance of developing one of a group of very rare, but serious and potentially fatal skin and mucous membrane reactions when taking Nuvigil, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome. There is evidence that some people may have a genetic susceptibility to developing these conditions when they take certain medications.
If you develop a red/purple blistering rash then stop taking Nuvigil and speak with your doctor immediately.
Non-Prescription Nuvigil Alternatives
Because getting a prescription for a Nuvigil dosage is very difficult for any off-label uses, some people consider turning to the internet gray market to buy Nuvigil without a prescription from an international online pharmacy.
This is not recommended for two main reasons: your product may be confiscated at customs when it is imported to the country, and there is no way to guarantee the quality and purity of the product you may receive.
Instead, many people use non-prescription Nuvigil alternatives such as Adrafinil or one of the Racetams.
Adrafinil is the prodrug of Modafinil. When ingested, Adrafinil is broken down in the liver into its component parts. The primary active compound in Adrafinil is Modafinil. After this initial conversion process, the effects of Adrafinil are said to be very similar to taking Modafinil directly.
It is recommended to only take Adrafinil on an occasional basis, as hypothetically there could be a dangerous accumulation of toxic liver enzymes if it it taken regularly.
Another non-prescription nootropic alternative is using one of the Racetam family of compounds. Based off of the original nootropic, Piracetam, this group has been seen to have positive effects on the neurotransmitter Acetylcholine in the brain and central nervous system. Increased Acetylcholine can improve concentration, learning ability, and memory.
Since Piracetam was first developed in the 1960s, more potent derivatives have been developed, including Aniracetam, Oxiracetam, Pramiracetam, and Phenylpiracetam. For example, Pramiracetam is considered 30 times as potent as Piracetam, and has strong mental energy boosting effects, making it an ideal substitute for Nuvigil’s effects.
Adrafinil and the Racetams are considered unregulated, unscheduled compounds in the United States and many other countries. They are legal to buy, own, and use, however due to FDA laws the sale of them is restricted. However, they are available from a variety of specialized nootropic stores online.
In Review
Nuvigil is a potent wakefulness promoting agent. It is available by prescription in most countries. Daily dosage is usually 150mg taken once each day, though if planning to work extended hours, a second dose can sometimes be added late in the day.
You may find that you can experience all of the benefits by using a smaller Nuvigil dosage instead. Nuvigil (or the generic Waklert brand) should be taken under the guidance of a knowledgeable medical professional who is able to monitor for adverse effects and to adjust dosage if needed.
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- Darwish M, Kirby M, D’Andrea DM, Yang R, Hellriegel ET, Robertson P Jr. Pharmacokinetics of armodafinil and modafinil after single and multiple doses in patients with excessive sleepiness associated with treated obstructive sleep apnea: a randomized, open-label, crossover study. Clin Ther. 2010
- Varanese S, Perfetti B, Gilbert-Wolf R, Thomas A, Onofrj M, Di Rocco A. Modafinil and armodafinil improve attention and global mental status in Lewy bodies disorders: preliminary evidence. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry. 2013
- Andrade C. Modafinil and armodafinil in schizophrenia. J Clin Psychiatry. 2012
- Howard R, Roth T, Drake CL. The effects of armodafinil on objective sleepiness and performance in a shift work disorder sample unselected for objective sleepiness. J Clin Psychopharmacol. 2014
- Andrade C, Kisely S, Monteiro I, Rao S. Antipsychotic augmentation with modafinil or armodafinil for negative symptoms of schizophrenia: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Psychiatr Res. 2015
- Lower EE, Malhotra A, Surdulescu V, Baughman RP. Armodafinil for sarcoidosis-associated fatigue: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. J Pain Symptom Manage. 2013
- Harsh J, Yang R, Hull SG. The impact of shift duration on the efficacy and tolerability of armodafinil in patients with excessive sleepiness associated with shift work disorder. Curr Med Res Opin. 2014
Article last updated on: April 13th, 2018 by Nootriment
1 Comment
I DO TAKE WAKLERT UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF MY DOCTOR
FROM 50mg TO 150mg AND BACK ACCORDINGLY DURING THE YEAR
DETAILS OF ABOVE ARTICLE ARE WELL EXPLAINED AND EASY TO UNDERSTAND
ANY SIDE EFFECTS ON KIDNEY OR LIVER KINDLY EXPLAIN CLEARLY
(send information on my e-mail)
I GET VERY SMALL LIP MOVEMENTS WHEN TAKEN WAKLERT AS ABOVE
SINCERE THANKS