Provigil (Modafinil) is a prescription medication usually given to people who suffer from narcolepsy, sleep apnea, or other sleep disorders that cause the sufferer to be unable to stay awake. Provigil is generally marketed as a "wakefulness promoting agent" as its purpose is to keep the user awake, among other things. Provigil is generically known as Modafinil, which is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Cephalon.

Who Can Take Provigil?

Provigil could potentially be prescribed to any adult with sleep disorders that make them unable to stay awake. This medication should also never be given to a young children. It is prescribed in the category of central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. The medications falling in this category have been known to cause reactions in individuals with high sensitivity to these drugs or CNS stimulants, which is why it is extremely important to speak with a medical professional prior to taking prescription drug Provigil. Also, this medicine should be avoided for people who suffer from or have a history of depression as side effects of Provigil could make the depression return.

What are Some Side Effects of Provigil?

With an array of mild to serious side effects with taking Provigil, it can be difficult to protect yourself. However, most individuals that are taking the drug usually only have the mild to moderate range of side effects.

Some of these side effects are:

. A fever, sore throat, and nausea

. You may find that you bruise more easily or bleed more freely

. Abnormal heartbeats or chest pain

. Negative thoughts associated with depression

. Peeling, blistering, and red skin rash

Provigil also has the possibility of causing a potentially fatal skin disease known as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. This disease is also known as Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis and it usually comes from adverse reactions to medication. People who suffer from this disease could be in extreme pain and experience anxiety. While it is likely that Stevens-Johnson Syndrome can affect any age range, it is often associated with older men and women as well as the elderly.

What are Symptoms of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?

If you are currently taking Provigil or Modafinil and are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately in the event that they are symptoms of Stevens-Johnson:

. Feverishness, coughing, headaches

. A blistering rash can appear on the upper part of the body and face, which can be red and bumpy

. The skin can become fragile and peel off of the body easily, often in large sheets

. In some cases, the hair and nails also fall away

The rash and blisters can also leave the skin looking as though its been burned, and these can easily become infected, which is the highest cause of death. To better protect yourself, know the side effects and if any of them occur speak to a medical professional immediately.

Action Taken to Promote Awareness of Provigil Side Effects

According to MedWatch posted by the FDA, the pharmaceutical company Cephalon updated the labels on Provigil to include warnings about the possible contraction of diseases such as Stevens-Johnson and patients who are experiencing symptoms of this disease should discontinue use of Provigil immediately.

If you or anyone you know has encountered any negative side-effects as a result of using Provigil, consider consulting with a Provigial law firm today to learn what, if any, compensation you may be entitled to.