Does anyone working night shift take modafinil?

[Sandwitch883RN]

I think I spelled that correctly. I was wondering if anyone on night shift uses medication to get throught working nights? I learned about modafinil on allnurses and was wondering if anyone uses this. Does it really help and what about side effects? I worked full time nights for 7 months and hated it. I was so tired all of the time and felt sick and depressed. I am now prn and only work a night here or there but I would like to find a full time position so of course nights are one of the only options for full time at most of the facilities close to my home.

[MedicalLPN, LPN]

I take Provigil and work night shift, though that's not why I take it. It helps a lot as far as promoting alertness and energy, however it is very expensive and most insurance companies make you jump through hoops before they approve it. As far as side effects go most commonly: tachycardia, hypertension, nausea, hand tremors, and nervousness. Most of the time Provigil is contraindicated if you have history of cardiac issues or hypertension, it may also be contraindicated if you have a psychiatric condition depending on what it is. Hope this helps :)

[vascularnurse124]

I have worked the 7pm-7am shift for 4 years now and I have never taken any supplement to stay awake or enhance thought process - except about 20 cups of coffee a night! However, I am intrigued and also have an interest in learning more about these drugs and whether or not they are safe. vascularnurse124

[jetscreamer101]

I have taken provigil iin the past though it wasn't because of working nights, although I was working nights at the time. I really didn't feel that it helped me at all. I know others swear by it.