In clinical studies, nervousness, nausea, and headaches were the most common side effects reported with Provigil. Problems that were not as common (occurring in 1 to 4 percent of people) included dry mouth, constipation, and nosebleeds. There are also certain side effects that, while not as common, are potentially serious and require immediate medical attention, such as hallucinations, high blood pressure, and heart palpitations.

An Introduction to Provigil Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Provigil® (modafinil); however, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.

Common Side Effects of Provigil

Provigil has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and compared to side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.

In these studies, the most common side effects with Provigil included:

• Headaches — in up to 34 percent of people
• Nausea — up to 11 percent
• Nervousness — up to 7 percent
• Runny or stuffy nose — up to 7 percent
• Back pain — up to 6 percent
• Diarrhea — up to 6 percent
• Indigestion or heartburn — up to 5 percent
• Insomnia — up to 5 percent (see Provigil and Insomnia)
• Dizziness — up to 5 percent.

Other common Provigil side effects, occurring in 1 to 4 percent of people, included:

• Flu-like symptoms (such as fever and chills)
• Dry mouth (see Provigil and Dry Mouth)
• Loss of appetite
• Sore throat
• Flushing or hot flashes
• Constipation
• Unusual sensations, such as numbness or tingling
• Drowsiness

Provigil and Rashes

Like many other medications, Provigil can cause a rare, extremely dangerous side effect called Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS). This problem starts out as a rash, but it can soon become life-threatening, sometimes resulting in the loss of large segments of skin (which can lead to disfigurement or even death). Therefore, tell your healthcare provider immediately if you develop an unexplained rash while taking the drug. In almost all cases, Provigil should be stopped, since it is impossible to tell if any particular rash will become dangerous. If you cannot reach your healthcare provider immediately, you should stop taking Provigil until you receive further instructions.

Final Thoughts

You may experience some or none of the Provigil side effects listed in this article. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to tell whether any particular side effect (such as nausea) is actually caused by Provigil or other factors. Therefore, make sure to let your healthcare provider know if you develop any side effects while taking the drug or if something “just does not seem right.” While you may not be experiencing a side effect, your healthcare provider will be able to diagnose and treat the problem.

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