I have had Narcolepsy since I was a teenager, but it was only diagnosed a little over a year ago. I have been on Provigil since the diagnosis.
In addition to the Narcolepsy, I also have some problems with my body's sleep clock...it is off schedule. I am so tired in the morning, I can hardly move. I am the same way in the late afternoon and evening. Then, when bedtime rolls around, I am wide awake.
For the sleepiness, and for the time clock adjustment, my doctor prescribed a Feel Bright Light Visor. They are about $200, and our insurance won't pay for it. I don't have my light visor yet...saving up for it, but I am looking forward to getting it, and getting less tired.
The visor is worn at prescribed times of day...it is like a light box, only portable, so you don't have to sit there in front of it, doing nothing. The light is supposed to help you feel more awake, and when used at the correct times of day, it is supposed to help your body's sleep rhythms get back into sync.
Also, with all of the stress and lack of energy, is it possible that you may be a little depressed? Talk with your doctor about this...it just could be that you might need an antidepressant on top of the Provigil.
I have bipolar disorder, and that messes with my moods and my sleep. The right bipolar meds plus the provigil have made all the difference in the world.
