This article reviews the use of modafinil in palliative care, and its use in promoting vigilance and wakefulness. Modafinil’s therapeutic and chemical class, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, indications, dosage, side effects, and drug interactions are also discussed. Modafinil seems to fit the requirements of portmanteau, using one drug to treat multiple symptoms.
Key words: a1-antagonists, antidepressants, depression, fatigue, modafinil, palliative care, pharmacotherapy, pharmacokinetics, psychopharmacology, psychostimulants, symptom management, vigilance, wakefulness