ARMODAFINIL

 ARMODAFINIL

BRAND NAME:- Armod,waklert or many brands available in India.

ARMODAFINIL is a congener of modafinil which has been recently approved for improving wakefulness in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) ,SWD and narcolepsy.

PHARMACODYNAMIC:-

Armodafinil (R-(−)-modafinil) has pharmacological properties almost identical to those of modafinil (a mixture of R-(−)- and (S)-(+)-modafinil). The (R)- and (S)-enantiomers have similar pharmacological action in animals. Armodafinil has wake-promoting actions similar to sympathomimetic agents including amphetamine and methylphenidate, although its pharmacologic profile is not identical to that of the sympathomimetic amines. Armodafinil is an indirect dopamine receptor agonist; it binds in vitro to the dopamine transporter (DAT) and inhibits dopamine reuptake. For modafinil, this activity has been associated in vivo with increased extracellular dopamine levels. In genetically engineered mice lacking the dopamine transporter, modafinil lacked wake-promoting activity, suggesting that this activity was DAT-dependent. However, the wake-promoting effects of modafinil, unlike those of amphetamine, were not antagonized by the dopamine receptor antagonist haloperidol in rats. In addition, alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine, an inhibitor of dopamine synthesis, blocks the action of amphetamine but does not block locomotor activity induced by modafinil. 

MECHANISM OF ACTION:-

It is a single-isomer of modafini. The exact mechanism of action is unknown. Armodafinil belongs to a class of drugs known as eugeroics, which are stimulants that provide long-lasting mental arousal. Pharmacologically, armodafinil does not bind to or inhibit several receptors and enzymes potentially relevant for sleep/wake regulation. Armodafinil is not a direct- or indirect-acting dopamine receptor agonist. However, in vitro, both armodafinil and modafinil bind to the dopamine transporter and inhibit dopamine reuptake . 

USED:-

Armodafinil reduces extreme sleepiness due to narcolepsy and other sleep disorders, such as periods of stopped breathing during sleep (obstructive sleep apnea). It is also used to help you stay awake during work hours if you have a work schedule that keeps you from having a normal sleep routine (shift work sleep disorder) .

SIDE EFFECTS:- 

Headache, nausea, dry mouth, nervousness, dizziness, or difficulty sleeping may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. 

DOSE:- 

•Obstructive Sleep Apnea/Hypopnea Syndrome

150-250 mg orally in the morning

•Narcolepsy

150-250 mg orally in the morning

•Shift Work Sleep Disorder

150 mg orally once/day 1 hour prior to patient's work shift

Limitation of Use.