What can be used to treat MS fatigue besides Provigil?

  • Q: What can be used to treat MS fatigue besides Provigil?
  • A: Provigil (modafinil) is a medication that alters neutrotransmitters or chemicals in the brain. Provigil is medication that promotes wakefulness. Provigil is indicated for the improvement of wakefulness in patients with narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea and shift work sleep disorder. Provigil is usually taken each morning to prevent daytime sleepiness, or 1 hour before the start of a work shift to treat work-time sleep disorders. Common side effects of Provigil include headache, dizziness, trouble sleeping and dry mouth. The most prescribed medication for MS-related fatigue is Provigil, However, Symmetrel (amantidine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate) are also prescribed for the MS-related fatigue. Ritalin (methylphenidate) is a stimulant that affects chemicals in the brain and nerves that affect hyperactivity and impulse control. Ritalin is used in attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and sometimes narcolepsy. Take Ritalin about 30-45 minutes before a meal. Common side effects of Ritalin include weight loss, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite, and sleep problems. Symmetrel (amantidine) is an antiviral medication that blocks the actions of viruses in your body. Symmetrel is indicated to treat and to prevent influenza A. However, the doctor may prescribed amantidine for other purposes. Take Symmetrel with a full glass of water exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, dry mouth and diarrhea or constipation. Cylert (Pemoline) was once prescribed for MS-related fatigue but the drug was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2005. Talk to your doctor about medical options for the fatigue. Your doctor can give you guidance on a medication that will help with the fatigue. Kimberly Hotz, PharmD
This question was answered on July 07, 2011.


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