Sleep disorders have been common with humans since the beginning of time, but it was only recently in historical terms that these issues began to be diagnosed and treated. Two of those disorders that proved to be dangerous for many were obstructive sleep apnea and narcolepsy, each of which presented risks and basically made life miserable for those who were forced to deal with them for most of their lives.
However, as these disorders began to gain more attention from the medical community, pharmaceutical companies began to formulate drugs that were intended to treat them. One of the leading products that was introduced to the market was Provigil. Below is a look at how Provigil works, the Provigil side effects to which it was linked after some time on the market, the potential damage that could be done as a result and how you should proceed if you or someone you love has been harmed as a result of using Provigil.
How Provigil Works
Provigil is manufactured by Cephalon, which is one of the behemoths of the pharmaceutical industry. It was originally approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the United States in 1998, and it showed early promise after hitting the market based on its initial results.
The main problem with those who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea or narcolepsy is their tendency to suddenly fall asleep during the day given their long-term lack of rest at night. Provigil is a drug that contains the ingredient modafinil, which is a type of medicine known as a CNS stimulant. This CNS stimulant basically activates the central nervous system and thereby provides the patient with a dose of heightened awareness that helped to prevent these sleeping spells that could arise at any time while at work, behind the wheel and in other risky situations.
Provigil was seen as such a success that it soon began to be used for off-label purposes, meaning uses for situations for which it was not originally approved. Given the heightened awareness it provided, military pilots, truck drivers and even some professional athletes began to work Provigil into their routine in order to obtain the benefits the drug contained.
Provigil Side Effects
Unfortunately, after almost 10 years on the market, reports of Provigil side effects began to surface. Early reports of troubling Provigil side effects included patients experiencing hallucinations, temporary depressive episodes and even thoughts of suicide. However, these side effects were studied and it was determined that they usually disappeared within a period of about 48 hours.
One common Provigil side effect above all others was and is extremely serious, and it persisted beyond the time period mentioned above. It is known as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, or SJS as it is commonly known. SJS is a life-threatening skin condition that begins with what appears to be a simple rash.
Provigil Side Effects The Fallout
However, SJS is far more dangerous than just a rash, as it progresses to the point where the patients skin begins to die and peel off much like that of a snakes. Human skin is not supposed to change in this manner, and if SJS goes untreated it can ultimately lead to dangerous exposure to infections that normal skin will prevent on a daily basis.
These infections can prove to be fatal given the patients vulnerability to them, and SJS is also excruciatingly painful to deal with as the skin hardens, reddens, calcifies, dies and ultimately comes off of the body. While SJS is otherwise rare statistically, an alarming number of patients who had used Provigil contracted it.
As a result of this growing and troubling phenomenon, Cephalon ultimately began to place warning messages on the labels of Provigil in 2007 that were designed to alert people of the dangers and risks involved with taking the drug. In addition, lawsuits have been filed against the manufacturer and incoming inquiries continue to be made.
Provigil Injury Lawyer and Provigil Lawsuit
If you or someone you love has used Provigil and has suffered as a result, you need to take action to protect and enforce your legal rights. Manufacturers of products that prove to be dangerous are regularly held accountable for these actions, and you owe it to yourself and to those you love to obtain the answers you need regarding your legal rights and options. Contact the Provigil side effects lawyers at the law firm of Phillips Law Group today to schedule a free initial consultation and to decide how to proceed with a foundation of sound legal advice.
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