CNS Stimulants

Section Under Review

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Specialist initiation (S¹)

MODAFINIL

MODAFINIL is indicated for the treatment of narcolepsy and should only be initiated by a specialist.
The European Medicines Agency has recommended restricting the use of modafinil-containing medicines. The medicine should only be used to treat sleepiness associated with narcolepsy (European Medicines Agency: Press Release, 2010).
Dexamfetamine sulphate or methylphenidate hydrochloride may be prescribed by specialists when modafinil is ineffective.
Modafinil (Provigil): Increased Risk of Congenital Malformations If Used During Pregnancy (MHRA: Drug Safety Update, 2020)

NHSL Joint Adult Formulary Key

To indicate the category of a formulary medicine, updated sections adopt the following key:

Preferred list (P): First-line formulary choices.

Total list (T): Alternative choices when preferred list options not effective/not tolerated, or not indicated.

Specialist initiation (S¹): Specialist initiation, or on the advice of a Consultant or Specialist Practitioner in this therapeutic area. Continuation in primary care is acceptable.

Specialist use only (S²): Supply via hospital, Homecare Service or a hospital based prescription (HBP) for dispensing by community pharmacy. Not prescribed in primary care setting.

Last reviewed: 31/01/2022

Next review date: 31/01/2025

Author(s): NHSL.

Version: Please refer to the introduction section for an explanation of the review dates above.

Approved By: ADTC

Reviewer name(s): ADTC.

CNS Stimulants

Section Under Review

CNS Stimulants

NHSL Joint Adult Formulary Key

Editorial Information