Any experience with Nuvigil or Provigil?

I'll be going back to see my sleep doctor soon, but have given this new mask and lower pressure a run and am still having issues with fatigue. I do notice some things improved. For example, I never have episodes where I wake with my heart pounding feeling all hot and sick, my memory is better with CPAP than without and my overall energy level is better just not great still.

I'm still super tired in the mornings and still need to nap most afternoons, but I do get more done than I was. I know my doctor said the last resort if we couldn't fix my sleepiness was a daily pill like Nuvigil or Provigil. She said I can take it just as needed so it's not something I have to take every single day. Just curious what others experiences were if they tried this for fatigue with sleep apnea even on CPAP. Did it help? And how bad were the side effects if any?

Thanks, Heather

Hi Heather--

Yes I have some experience with Nuvigil. Be prepared for the cost--it is incredibly expensive and the company does have a special one-month offer to help you try it out.

The main thing about these drugs is that they can really raise blood pressure in some people. If you have a mitral heart valve, you really need to consult with a cardiologist before proceeding. There are specific warnings about use in people with mitral valves.

A whole pill kept me awake for a day and a half. I cut the pills in half and this seemed about right. Do this carefully under a doctor's supervision; these drugs are controlled substances and should be managed carefully. Good luck!