Is it safe to take Provigil if you have high blood pressure?

Question

I have high blood pressure and take Toprol for it. My doctor is concerned about the possibility of Provigil causing heart palpatations. Is it safe to take Provigil if you have high blood pressure? I'm going to get a sleep study done soon. Even if I come out negative for sleep apnea, could I still benefit from taking Provigil?

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Voters

It depends on the severity of your blood pressure, but generally it's a really bad mix.

My mother has high blood pressure, but it borderline narcoleptic (which is what she was prescribed the Provigil for). The doc that was prescribing the Provigil didn't bother to ask if she had blood pressure issues, and after she started taking it her b.p. spiked dangerously high.

You'll need to talk this over seriously with your physician.

Answer 2

What are the possible side effects of Provigil?
• If you experience any of the following uncommon but serious side effects, stop taking Provigil and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· irregular heartbeats;
· low or high blood pressure; or
· shortness of breath.
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Provigil and talk to your doctor if you experience
· headache;
· infection;
· nausea, decreased appetite, or diarrhea;
· chills;
· dry mouth;
· runny nose;
· sore throat;
· nervousness;
· anxiety;
· dizziness;
· insomnia;
· depression; or
· numbness or tingling.
• Provigil may be habit forming. You should discuss the abuse and dependence potential of Provigil with your doctor. Do not stop taking Provigil without first talking to your doctor. Your doctor may want to gradually lower the dose of the medication before stopping treatment.
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

If you have high blood pressure tell your physicain about it before you take this suff.