Provigil drugs are potent to promote wakefulness of the user. Patients suffering sleeping disorders such as extreme sleepiness caused by narcolepsy or obstructive sleep apnea take a prescription of the Provigil medication to stay awake. It is also beneficial to people working overnight in shifts as the drug works to alter the chemical composition of the brain responsible for sleep to reduce excessive sleepiness. In some instances, Provigil is a performance enhancer used by pilots and military persons as it improves combat situations and short memories.
Provigil linked to Stevens Johnson Syndrome
The linking of Provigil medication and the Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS) has been in the news recently. SJS is a rare medical condition that can result in death. The disease caused by an allergic reaction due to drugs involves the skin and mucous membrane causing deep blisters. The Food and Drug Authority prohibited the use of Provigil especially to children under the age of ten years for the treatment of deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as it links to the adverse reaction of SJS.
Condition of Provigil triggered Stevens Johnson Syndrome
Adverse reaction of Provigil may result to Stevens Johnson Syndrome in one to three weeks after the consumption of the drug. The reaction starts with a rash that develops into skin lesions that coalesce to create a blister. Without proper medication, SJS caused by a reaction to Provigil can cause fall off of the patient’s skin and may cause blindness, permanent scarring and eventual death.
The symptoms of Provigil attributed SJS include a sore throat, fevers and feeling fatigue. In advanced condition, the SJS may cause coughs, headaches and joint pain. Other signs and symptoms associated with the medical condition include purple or red skin, pain in the skin, swelling of the genitals, the lips, face or lips or a blister on the nose.
Treating Provigil Attributed Stevens Johnson Syndrome
The first step to the treatment of an allergic medical condition is the discontinued use of the particular drug. The suspected SJS needs treatment before the occurrence of blisters to reduce the mortality rate of the victim. Get advice from a medical professional for assistance. However, make sure to eliminate a cough and cold medication, anticonvulsants, some antibiotics, some painkillers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and anti-gout drugs.
Worry less about Provigil and Stevens Johnson Syndrome
Despite the fears presented by the use of Provigil, available statistics indicate only a handful of incidences occurred that contribute to Stevens Jonson Syndrome. There have been only a few reported cases that link Provigil medication to Stevens Johnson Syndrome. The evidence pointing use of Provigil to Stevens Johnson Syndrome is not enough to establish the claim as the truth. It is, however, important be cautious while using the medication.
Prevention of Adverse reaction from Provigil
To avoid allergic reaction when using Provigil medication, let the doctor know if food dyes and food preservatives cause a severe reaction when consumed. A discussion with a physician before using Provigil medication is a useful prevention mechanism from an allergic reaction of Provigil to cause Stevens Johnson Syndrome. Take Provigil as a prescribed drug after getting a recommendation from your doctor and report any suspicious results to the physician immediately.