If you have narcolepsy, your doctor may suggest treatment with Wakix.

Wakix is a medication used to treat a condition called narcolephrenia.

  • cataplexy (sudden episodes of muscle weakness or limpness while awake, which is triggered by strong emotions such as laughing, crying, or anger)
  • excessive daytime sleepiness (a sudden, overwhelming urge to sleep that makes it hard to function during the day)

Wakix basics

Wakix contains the active drug pitolisant. (The active drug is the ingredient that makes a medication work.) It’s not available as a generic.

Wakix is a tablets that you swallow.

Wakix has side effects, costs, uses, and more.

Wakix may cause mild or serious side effects. The side effects are described in the lists below. All possible side effects are not included in these lists.

Side effects of a drug can depend on other factors.

  • Your age.
  • You have other health conditions.
  • You take other drugs.

The doctor or the pharmacy can tell you more about the side effects of Wakix. They can suggest ways to reduce side effects.

Mild side effects

Here’s a list of some of the mild side effects Wakix can cause. To learn about other mild side effects, talk with your doctor or pharmacist, or read Wakix’s prescribing information.

There are some mild side effects of Wakix that have been reported.

The side effects of many drugs can be gone in a few days. If they become intolerable, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

The side effect is described in the section “Allergic reaction”.

Serious side effects

There are serious side effects from Wakix, but they are not common. If you have serious side effects from Wakix, you should call your doctor. If you think you have a medical emergency, you should call the emergency number.

There have been serious side effects of Wakix.

The side effect is described in the section “Allergic reaction”.

SUICIDE PREVENTION

If you think someone is at risk of self-injury or hurting another person.

  • You can call your local emergency number.
  • Stay with the person until help arrives.
  • Guns, knives, medications, and other things should be removed.
  • “Don’t judge, argue, threaten, or yell.”

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, you should get help from a hotline. The National Suicide Prevention Hotline is 800-273-8255.

Allergic reaction

Some people may have an allergic reaction to Wakix. While allergic reaction wasn’t reported in clinical studies of Wakix, it has occurred since the drug was approved for use.

A mild allergic reaction can include some symptoms.

A more severe allergic reaction is not uncommon. A severe allergic reaction can cause swelling under your skin, which can be seen in your eyes, lips, hands, and feet. They can include swelling of your mouth, throat, and tongue, which can cause trouble breathing.

If you have an allergic reaction to Wakix, call your doctor. If you think you have a medical emergency, call the emergency number.

Costs of prescription drugs can vary depending on many factors. These factors include what your insurance plan covers and which pharmacy you use. To find current prices for Wakix, visit WellRx.com.

If you have questions about how to pay for your prescription, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. You can also visit the Wakix manufacturer’s website to see if they have support options.

You can check out this article to learn more about saving money on prescriptions.

Find answers to questions about Wakix.

How does Wakix compare to the alternative drugs modafinil and Adderall?

Wakix, modafinil (Provigil), and amphetamine/dextroamphetamine (Adderall) are all prescription drugs used to treat narcolepsy symptoms in adults.

Adderall and moda finil are both amphetamines. These are drugs that can cause a reaction in your nervous system. They make you feel energetic. They can raise your blood pressure and heart rate. Wakix is not a stimulus. It works in a different way to treat the symptoms of narcoles.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the comparative effectiveness of Wakix and other drugs used for narcolepsy.

What is Wakix’s mechanism of action?

The mechanism of action is what a drug works on.

Wakix’s mechanism of action for treating narcolepsy symptoms isn’t fully understood. It’s thought that it may block certain chemicals in your brain that cause narcolepsy symptoms such as excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy.

Is Wakix classified as a controlled substance?

Wakix is not a controlled substance.

A controlled substance is a medication that has additional regulations. The Drug Enforcement Agency considers medications to be controlled substances if they have the potential for misuse, dependence, and addiction.

“Wakix is the first medication approved to treat a disease that isn’t controlled.”

Can Wakix cause weight loss?

No, Wakix doesn’t cause weight loss. This wasn’t a side effect reported in studies of the drug.

In rare cases, Wakix can cause a decrease in appetite, which can lead to weight loss.

If you are concerned about your weight or appetite, talk to your doctor.

Wakix is a prescription medication used to treat the following narcolepsy symptoms in adults:

  • cataplexy (sudden episodes of muscle weakness or limpness while awake, which is triggered by strong emotions such as laughing, crying, or anger)
  • excessive daytime sleepiness (a sudden, overwhelming urge to sleep that makes it hard to function during the day)

A nervous system condition called narcolepsy causes sleep problems. There are many symptoms of narcolepsy, including daytime sleepiness and sleep attacks. Some people experience cataplexy.

It is not known how Wakix works to treat narcole tingles. It is thought that it may block certain chemicals in your brain that cause narcolepsy.

Your doctor will recommend the Wakix dosing that’s right for you. Below are commonly used dosages, but always take the dosage your doctor prescribes.

Forms

Wakix is a tablets that you swallow. They’re available in two strengths: 4.45 milligrams (mg) and 17.8 mg.

Recommended dosages

Wakix is usually started at a lower dosage that gradually increases over time. When you wake up, your doctor will prescribe the Wakix dosage.

Questions about Wakix’s dosage

“Some questions about Wakix’s dosage are listed below.”

  • What if I miss a dose of Wakix? If you miss a dose of Wakix, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at its regular time when you wake up. You should not take more than one dose of Wakix at once. Doing so could raise your risk of side effects.
  • Will I need to use Wakix long term? You’ll likely use Wakix long term, if you and your doctor agree it’s safe and working well for you.
  • How long does Wakix take to work? Wakix begins working as soon as you take a dose, but it may take a while before you notice a change in your symptoms. In some cases, it can take up to 8 weeks before symptoms are eased.

If you’re prescribed Wakix, you may also be interested in learning more about alternatives such as Sunosi.

Both Wakix and Sunosi are prescribed for adults with excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) due to narcolepsy. Wakix also treats cataplexy associated with narcolepsy, and Sunosi treats EDS caused by obstructive sleep apnea.

If you’d like to learn more about these drugs, see this detailed comparison. Also, talk with your doctor about the treatment option that’s right for you.

Wakix and Xyrem are both used to treat excessive daytime sleepiness or cataplexy due to narcolepsy. Wakix is only used in adults, but Xyrem may be used in adults and in children ages 7 years and older.

If you’d like to learn more about how these drugs compare, see this article. Also, talk with your doctor about the treatment option that’s right for you.

“Your doctor will explain how to take Wakix. They will explain how much to take and how often. Follow your doctor’s instructions.”

Taking Wakix

Wakix is a tablet that you take once a day.

Accessible medication containers and labels

“If you can’t read the label on your prescription, tell your doctor or pharmacist. Some pharmacies may provide medication labels.”

  • Have a large print.
  • Use the visual aids.
  • You can use a code on a phone to change the text into audio.

“If your current pharmacy doesn’t offer these options, your doctor or pharmacist may be able to recommend a new pharmacy.”

“If you have trouble opening your bottles, please let your doctor know. They may be able to put Wakix in a container. The drug’s container may be easier to open with the help of your pharmacist.”

Questions about taking Wakix

Some questions about taking Wakix are listed below.

  • Can Wakix be chewed, crushed, or split? The manufacturer of Wakix hasn’t stated whether the tablets are safe to chew, crush, or split. If you’re having trouble swallowing pills, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
  • Should I take Wakix with food? You can take Wakix with or without food.

Questions for your doctor

You may have questions about Wakix. Discuss your concerns with your doctor.

Here are a few tips that might help you.

  • Before your appointment, write down questions such as:
    • How will Wakix affect me?
  • Bring someone with you to your appointment to make you feel more comfortable.
  • “If you don’t understand something, ask your doctor to explain it.”

“Your doctor and other healthcare professionals are available to help you. They want you to get the best care possible. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or give feedback on your treatment”

Before starting treatment with Wakix, you should have a discussion with your doctor. It is important that you tell your doctor about your health issues.

You should tell your doctor about all your medication. They will want to check their interactions with Wakix.

Interactions

Taking a medication with certain vaccines, foods, and other things can affect how the medication works. These effects are called interactions.

Before taking Wakix, you should tell your doctor about all your medication. You should also describe any vitamins, herbs, or supplements you use. Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you about any interactions these items may cause.

Interactions with drugs or supplements

Wakix can interact with a lot of drugs. These drugs are used.

Some drugs that may interact with Wakix are not on this list. Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you more about the interactions that occur with Wakix.

Warnings

If you have a medical condition that affects your health, Wakix may not be right for you. Before you take Wakix, talk to your doctor about your health history. The factors to consider are listed below.

  • Abnormal heart rhythm, including long QT syndrome. Wakix can cause a heart rhythm problem called long QT syndrome. You may have a higher risk for this side effect if you have existing heart rhythm problems. And if you already have long QT syndrome, taking Wakix could make it worse. Your doctor can help determine if Wakix is safe for you to take.
  • Electrolyte problems. Wakix can cause a heart rhythm problem called long QT syndrome. If you have electrolyte problems, such as low levels of potassium or magnesium, you may have a higher risk of long QT syndrome from Wakix. Your doctor can help determine if Wakix is safe for you. If they decide to prescribe Wakix for you, they may closely monitor your electrolyte levels using blood tests.
  • Kidney or liver problems. Having kidney or liver problems can make it harder for your body to get rid of Wakix after you take a dose. This can raise your risk of side effects. Due to this risk, doctors typically will not prescribe Wakix if you have severe liver disease, end-stage kidney disease, or if you’re on dialysis. Your doctor can help determine whether Wakix is safe for you.
  • Allergic reaction. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to Wakix or any of its ingredients, your doctor will likely not prescribe Wakix. Ask them what other medications are better options for you.

Wakix and alcohol

It is safe to drink alcohol during Wakix treatment.

But research has shown that drinking alcohol can affect sleep quality. So it’s possible that drinking alcohol could worsen your narcolepsy symptoms.

If you drink alcohol, talk to your doctor about how much you can drink while taking Wakix.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

It is not known if Wakix is safe to take during a pregnant woman.

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant, you should talk with your doctor before taking Wakix.

If you and your doctor agree that you’ll use Wakix while pregnant, consider joining the pregnancy registry for Wakix. Pregnancy registries help doctors learn about the safety of medications such as Wakix when used during pregnancy. You can learn more and sign up for the registry by calling 877-302-2813.

If you can become pregnant, talk with your doctor about your birth control needs during your Wakix treatment. Wakix can make hormonal birth control (such as birth control pills, Depo-Provera, or NuvaRing) less effective. Because of this, you should use nonhormonal birth control while taking Wakix, and for at least 21 days after your last dose.

If you have questions about using birth control, talk to your doctor.

Do not take more than your doctor prescribes. Side effects can be serious if you use more than this.

What to do in case you take too much Wakix

Call your doctor if you think you’ve taken too much Wakix. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach the American Association of Poison Control Centers or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number. Or go to the nearest emergency room.

If you are considering treatment with Wakix, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Ask questions to find out more about the risks and benefits of this drug. Some questions to help you start.

  • Does my medical history increase my risk of side effects?
  • Will I have withdrawal symptoms if I stop taking Wakix?
  • What about other treatments for narcoleau besides Wakix?

You may also be interested in learning more about narcolepsy treatment options or cataplexy treatment options.

Q:

Is it safe for older adults to take Wakix?

Anonymous

A:

In general, yes. In studies, older adults (ages 65 years and older) who took Wakix weren’t more likely to have side effects than younger people taking the drug. There also wasn’t any difference in how well the drug worked to treat narcolepsy symptoms in older adults.

Older adults are more likely to have certain health factors that could raise their risk of side effects from Wakix. These risk factors include:

  • There are heart problems.
  • kidney problems
  • liver problems
  • Taking other medications can interact with Wakix.

If you are 65 years old or older and want to take Wakix, you should talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They can help you decide if Wakix is a good choice or if another drug is a better one.

The Healthline Pharmacist TeamAnswers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.