Medications for PPS
Original Post: Could I have some feedback on using Provogil (Modafinil) for PPS pain?
Dr. Bruno’s Response:
Provigil (modafinil) is a medication that promotes wakefulness. It is thought to work by altering the natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain. Provigil is used to treat excessive sleepiness caused by sleep apnea, narcolepsy, or shift work sleep disorder).
Two separate studies have found that these medications have absolutely no effect in reducing post-polio fatigue. Patients feel as if they were drunk 12 cups of coffee and are desperate to sleep but can't because they're are high on these medications.
At the Post-Polio Institute, we recommended:
the Post-Polio Diet;
take 2 (15 minute) breaks with your feet up, one in the morning and one in the afternoon;
and have a sleep study to make sure that you're sleeping at night.
Measure your steps - use the Post-Polio Fatigue Log
Of key importance here: When your body tells you you're tired or feeling weaker you should have already stopped what you've been doing.