Short synopsis
Brand name: Provigil
Active chemical: modafinil
Primary suggestions: promotes daytime wakefulness for adults with excessive sleepiness due to narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea (used in addition to primary therapies), or shift work sleep disorder.
Common tablet strengths available in the United States: 100 mg and 200 mg.
If you want practical instructions, go to the dosing information block at Best practices for taking modafinil. For safety checks and personal interplay between partiess build trust and rapport., consult What to know before use. For varied options and cost comparisons jump to Medicines related to other course options and Estimated subscription pricing in the United States.
The mode by which it acts
Modafinil is classified as a wakefulness-promoting agent. Its exact biological action is not fully resolved, but research indicates effects across several neurotransmitter systems involved in alertness.
Observed actions include partial inhibition of the dopamine transporter, enhanced signaling in pathways involving orexin (also called hypocretin) and histamine, and indirect modulation of norepinephrine. These combined effects support sustained wakefulness while generally producing less euphoria than many classical stimulant drugs.
Most users notice an improvement in alertness within a few hours of taking a dose. If you are treating shift work sleep disorder, timing your dose correctly is important; see Ways to use modafinil effectively more information is available in the details sectional unit.
How to take a bite modafinil: guidelines
- Typical starting regimen for many adults: 200 mg taken once daily. Some people do well at 100 mg; clinicians may adjust based on response and tolerability.
- Narcolepsy, a condition characterized by sudden sleep attacks and obstructive sleep apnea: most often prescribed as 200 mg in the morning. In obstructive sleep apnea, modafinil is used only as an adjunct and does not replace CPAP or other primary therapies.
- Shift work sleep disorder: common approach is a single 200 mg dose about one hour before the start of the work shift.
- Food considerations: modafinil may be taken with or without food. A large, high-fat meal can slow the speed at which the drug takes effect.
- Special situations: lower doses are often recommended for people with significant liver impairment and may be considered in some older adults; follow your prescriber's direction and insight.
- Do not stop or change dosing abruptly without consulting your healthcare professional. Providers typically reassess benefits and risks periodically, for example after about 12 weeks, then continue only if appropriate.
Follow the label directions for your prescription. Do not increase the dose or frequency on your own.
Instant summary | Prior to use, observe these protective protocols | Head back to page top
Safety preparations before you begin
Do not take modafinil if you had a previous allergic reaction or developed a serious skin reaction to modafinil or armodafinil (Nuvigil).
Severe dermatologic reactions have occurred. Stop treatment and seek urgent medical attention for any rash, blistering, peeling skin, mouth ulcers, fever, facial or leg swelling, breathing or swallowing difficulty, dark urine, or yellow skin or eyes.
Tell your prescriber about any history of the following conditions:
- Heart disease such as chest pain, prior heart attack, heart rhythm problems, or structural heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Impairment in hepatic or renal function
- Mood disorders, psychotic illness, anxiety disorders, or past substance misuse
Reproduction and contraception: the risks in pregnancy are not fully defined. Modafinil can reduce the effectiveness of many hormonal contraceptives (including pills, patches, rings, implants, and some IUDs). Use reliable non-hormonal contraception or an additional barrier method during treatment and for at least one month after stopping the drug. Discuss family planning with your healthcare provider.
Interacting drug effects: modafinil can increase CYP3A4 activity and inhibit CYP2C19, which may change levels of medicines such as some hormonal contraceptives, azole antifungal drugs, certain antiepileptic medications, selected antidepressants, and warfarin. Review all current medicines with your pharmacist or prescriber.
Modafinil may impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills in some people, especially when starting or after a dose change. Examine the manual the safety protective measures on activities at Important safety precautionary actions and safeguards and avoidable practices.
When one dose is missed
If a dose is forgotten, contact your clinician or pharmacist for specific guidance and counsel. In general, skip a a dose was missed if it would be taken near your normal bedtime or if taking it would interfere with sleep. Do not take two doses to cover for a a dose was missed.
Overdosing episode information resources
If you suspect an he overdosed, obtain emergency medical care immediately. In the United States you can also contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or visit poisonhelp.the organization is there guidance without delay.
Protective guidelines and things to refrain from while taking modafinil.
- Do not perform potentially dangerous tasks such as driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how modafinil affects you.
- Avoid or limit alcohol; alcohol may worsen sleepiness or impair cognition unpredictably when combined with modafinil.
- Use caution if you are taking other sedating medicines or powerful stimulants; discuss combined use with your clinician by your side.
Possible lasting unwelcome temporary side effects
Seek emergency help if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction such as hives, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing.
Stop taking the drug and obtain urgent medical attention if you develop any of the following serious problems:
- Severe skin reactions: rash, blisters, peeling, or mouth sores accompanied by fever
- New or worsening cardiovascular symptoms: chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat
- Swelling of the legs, dark urine, or jaundice
- New or worsening psychiatric symptoms: agitation, hallucinations, aggressive behavior, severe anxiety, or suicidal thoughts
Common adverse reactions reported include:
- A throbbing head pain or lightheadedness
- Hard time sleeping or insomnia
- Nausea, upset stomach, or loose stools
- Backache
- A congested nose
- Feeling nervous or jittery
This list is incomplete and not exhaustive. Report any unusual or persistent symptoms to your healthcare provider.
Other avenues and associated medicines
If modafinil is not appropriate or effective, clinicians may consider other options depending on the diagnosis and individual factors.
- Armodafinil (Nuvigil or generic): contains the R-enantiomer of modafinil and may produce a similar clinical effect with a slightly different duration in some people.
- Solriamfetol, sold as Sunosi, inhibits dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake to relieve daytime sleepiness in narcolepsy and OSA.
- Pitolisant (Wakix): a histamine H3 receptor inverse agonist used for narcolepsy in patients who may not tolerate stimulants.
- Classical stimulants such as methylphenidate (for example, Ritalin, Concerta) or amphetamine-based products (for example, Adderall, dextroamphetamine, lisdexamfetamine): these increase dopamine and norepinephrine and are effective for some patients but have different side effect profiles and regulatory controls.
- Non-drug approaches: optimizing treatment of underlying sleep disorders (for instance, ensuring effective CPAP for OSA), improving sleep hygiene, strategic scheduling and light exposure for shift workers, and addressing medications or conditions that contribute to sleepiness.
Talk with your clinician to choose the option best matched to your condition, goals, and risk factors. See cost comparisons at Price estimates in the USA.
Estimated prices in the United States
Costs depend on the pharmacy, location, dose, quantity, and insurance coverage. The figures below are approximate out-of-pocket ranges in US dollars and may change over time.
- Generic modafinil 200 mg: roughly $0.60 to $3.00 per tablet, which is about $20 to $90 for a 30-tablet supply at common cash prices.
- Provigil brand 200 mg: substantially higher, often in the range of $15 to $40 per tablet, or about $450 to $1,200 for 30 tablets without discounts.
- Generic armodafinil (150 to 250 mg): commonly $0.70 to $3.00 per tablet; brand Nuvigil may cost $10 to $30 per tablet.
- Solriamfetol (Sunosi): typical cash cost can be in the range of $700 to $900 per month without insurance.
- Pitolisant (Wakix): out-of-pocket prices often exceed $800 to $1,500 per month without coverage.
Insurance plans may require prior authorization or step therapy. Pharmacy discount programs, manufacturer coupons, and generic other possible paths can lower costs. Ask your pharmacist about savings options.
Related drugs and additional options | Move to the crest of the page
Summary of United States laws and regulations
- Controlled substance status: modafinil is a federal Schedule IV medication in the United States. A valid prescription from a licensed provider is required.
- Refill limits: federal rules typically limit refills; commonly prescriptions are valid for a limited period and refills are restricted unless a new prescription is issued.
- Telemedicine and controlled substances: prescribing rules for controlled medications via telemedicine vary by federal and state law; providers must follow applicable regulations which may require in-person evaluation in some situations.
- Importation: bringing prescription medications like modafinil into the United States from abroad is generally restricted and packages may be detained by Customs or FDA unless narrow criteria are met.
- Occupational considerations: be cautious when using wakefulness-promoting agents in safety-sensitive jobs. Some employers and regulators (for example, aviation authorities) have specific policies that may restrict use.
- Sports rules: modafinil and similar stimulants are generally banned in-competition under World Anti-Doping Agency rules unless a Therapeutic Use Exemption is obtained.
- Pediatric use: effectiveness and safety have not been established for many pediatric indications of; specialist guidance is recommended for children.
State laws and employer policies may add requirements beyond federal regulation. For additional guidance for safety consult Essential safety guidelines before first use, read instructions. and Safety aware tips and things to steer away from.
- The Layperson's Guide to Viagra Jelly
- Viagra Sublingual - Uses, Potential Adverse Events, and Extra Facts
- Your First Look at Deltasone
