Modafinil

Where to buy Modafinil online?

You can purchase Modafinil online at PharmXtra. You will need to complete our online consultation form. This is then reviewed by a registered doctor who will determine whether or not the medication is suitable for you. If approved, your medication will be delivered to your door.

What is Modafinil?

• Modafinil reduces excessive sleepiness, including conditions such as excessive daytime sleepiness.
• It is a prescription medication for people who struggle to stay awake due to narcolepsy (Ann Neurol. 1998), those working night shifts, or individuals with a changing shift pattern.
• Modafinil is also prescribed for some people with obstructive sleep apnoea.
• Research has examined Modafinil’s effect on cognitive function (Battleday & Brem, 2015) exploring its potential as a cognitive enhancer.
• It is usually prescribed for short-term use, as prolonged use may lead to dependence.
• Modafinil is a prescription drug often known by its brand name Provigil.
• Always read the patient information leaflet for a complete list of possible side effects, interactions, and precautions.
• Some people misuse Modafinil as a 'smart drug' or smart pill. Oxford University has reviewed its off-licence use (Oxford University) but it is not recommended by the MHRA due to the potential side effects.

Video: An overview of Modafinil

Watch the video below for a simple guide to Modafinil, including its uses, dosage, side effects and precautions.

How Does Modafinil Work?

Modafinil affects chemicals in the brain that control wakefulness, helping people feel more alert.

The body can develop a tolerance to Modafinil, which may lead to dependence if taken long-term. Stopping the medication suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms. This is why Modafinil should only be used as prescribed, with regular reviews by a doctor to ensure it is still appropriate.

Everyone’s experience with Modafinil varies, depending on their condition and response to treatment.

User Reviews for Modafinil

To read user experiences, check the following review platforms: Drugs.com, Web MD and Everyday Health.

Before taking Modafinil, speak to a doctor. They will assess whether it is suitable for your condition or if an alternative treatment is needed.

For full details about Modafinil, refer to the official Modafinil patient information leaflet.

How do I take Modafinil?

Modafinil Tablet

Modafinil comes in tablet form and should be swallowed with water, with or without food.

• For narcolepsy or sleep apnoea, it is usually taken once in the morning to improve daytime alertness.
• For shift work sleep disorder, it is typically taken just before starting a shift to help with wakefulness.

Modafinil is not a substitute for sleep and should not replace healthy sleep habits.

What is the proper dosage of Modafinil?

The usual starting dose is 200mg per day.

Some people may need up to 400mg per day, taken either as a single dose or split into two doses (morning and lunchtime).

Shift workers may also split their dose, depending on their work schedule.

If you miss a dose, skip it if it’s near bedtime. Do not take extra medication to make up for a missed dose.

What are the side effects of Modafinil?

Modafinil Side Effects

Like all medications, modafinil can cause some side effects. Common side effects include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
• Nausea (feeling sick)
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Loss of appetite
• A dry mouth or a strange taste in your mouth.
• Gastrointestinal disorders (NICE, 2024)

If side effects persist or worsen, speak to a doctor.

More serious side effects can also occur, including:

• Confusion
• Nosebleeds
• Sweating
• Back pain
• Tight, achy muscles or difficulty moving
• Uncontrollable shaking
• Changed sensations of the skin and skin reactions, including skin rash, tingling or numbness
• Changes to eyesight or pain in your eyes
• Feeling abnormally excited
• Anxiety or depression, or thoughts of harming yourself.

If you experience serious side effects, seek medical advice immediately.

If you have difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips or tongue, or signs of anaphylaxis, call 999 immediately.

What warnings does Modafinil come with?

Modafinil may not be suitable for everyone. Inform your doctor if you:

• Have had an allergic reaction to medication before
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have high blood pressure
• Have an irregular heartbeat or heart condition
• Have a mental health condition (psychosis, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder)
• Have a history of self-harm or suicidal thoughts
• Struggle with insomnia
• Use hormonal contraception
• Are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of drug or alcohol dependence

Modafinil may not be suitable if you take:

• Epilepsy medications
• Hormonal contraceptives
• Antidepressants
• Blood thinners
• Heartburn or acid reflux medications
• Benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam)
• Beta blockers (e.g., propranolol)
• Certain antifungal medications

Modafinil reduces the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. Alternative contraception should be used while taking Modafinil and for one month after stopping it. It is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

You should also inform your doctor about any herbal remedies or supplements you take to ensure there are no interactions.

Your doctor should assess your medical history and medications before prescribing Modafinil. Only buy Modafinil from reputable pharmacies or online sources like PharmXtra to ensure you receive a genuine product.

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about Modafinil.

Is Modafinil available in branded form?

Yes, Modafinil is available under the brand name Provigil.

Can you drink alcohol when taking Modafinil?

Modafinil and Alcohol

No, it is not recommended to consume alcohol when taking Modafinil. As Modafinil promotes wakefulness, combining it with alcohol may increase the risk of side effects such as blackouts, vomiting, dizziness and tremors. More research is needed to fully understand the risks, but mixing Modafinil with alcohol or other drugs (The Recovery Village, 2023). If you have taken both together, seek medical advice immediately.

Is Modafinil legal?

The legal status of Modafinil depends on the country. In the UK, it is a  prescription-only medication, meaning you need a valid prescription to obtain it. In the United States, Modafinil is classified as a schedule IV controlled substance. Some countries may have fewer restrictions.

Is Modafinil a nootropic medication?

Yes, Modafinil is considered a prescription nootropic (Brody, 2022). Nootropics are substances that may enhance cognitive function, and they generally fall into three categories: prescription drugs, dietary supplements and synthetic compounds.

Is Modafinil an effective treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome?

Modafinil may be a helpful treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) in some cases Garg et al, 2021). Research suggests it could be beneficial when combined with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for those with persistent symptoms. However, other studies indicate it may not provide long-term benefits. If you have CFS consult a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment for you (Turkington et al, 2004).

Is Modafinil available on NHS prescriptions in the UK?

A GP or specialist can prescribe Modafinil on the NHS if they believe it is suitable for the patient. NHS prescriptions are charged at a set rate by the UK government, and the cost may change annually (Almomani et al, 2023). Modafinil is available at PharmXtra, subject to an online consultation with a registered doctor.

Is Modafinil an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea?

Modafinil may help manage daytime sleepiness in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (Pack et al, 2001). It is usually used alongside other treatments such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. Always consult your doctor before taking Modafinil to ensure it is suitable for your condition.

Does Modafinil improve cognitive performance?

Modafinil may enhance cognitive functions such as attention, learning, and memory (Mereu et al, 2013). Some studies suggest it improves brain function (Gerrard and Malcolm, 2007), but it is unclear whether it has negative effects on physical performance (Puyvelde et al, 2022). Additionally, while it may benefit sleep-deprived individuals, it may not provide long-term cognitive benefits in healthy individuals. Always speak to a doctor before using Modafinil (Kredlow et al, 2019).

Why is Modafinil sometimes referred to as a study drug?

Modafinil is sometimes called a "study drug" due to its popularity among students seeking to improve focus and alertness. A 2016 study by The Student Room found that 1 in 10 UK students had used study drugs, with many more considering it. However, the long-term safety and effectiveness of Modafinil for this purpose remain unclear, and buying prescription medication online without a prescription carries risks. Always consult a healthcare professional before taking Modafinil.

Can you take birth control when taking Modafinil?

No. It is not recommended to take Modafinil and birth control at the same time. Modafinil may reduce the effectiveness of contraceptive medication, reducing the birth control's effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. Some research also suggests that Modafinil use during pregnancy could increase the risk of birth defects. If you are using birth control or planning to conceive, consult your doctor before taking Modafinil (Kaplan et al, 2021).

Is Modafinil suitable for erectile dysfunction treatment?

Modafinil is not primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction. However, some studies suggest it may help with sexual health issues when used alongside antidepressant treatments. If you are experiencing erectile dysfunction, speak to a doctor to find the most suitable treatment for your needs.

Are Armodafinil and Modafinil the same?

Armodafinil vs Modafinil

No, Armodafinil and Modafinil are not the same drug. While they have similar effects and half-lives (Darwish et al, 2009) they have differences in their dosing regimens and chemical structures. Modafinil is sold under the brand name Provigil, while Armodafinil is known as Nuvigil.

Are Modafinil and Adderall the same?

Modafinil vs Adderall

No, Modafinil and Adderall are different medications. Both have stimulant-like effects, but they have different chemical compositions. Adderall has a higher potential for addiction and withdrawal symptoms compared to Modafinil.

• Drugs.com - Modafinil
• Drugs.com - Modafinil Reviews
• WebMD - Modafinil Reviews
• PubMed - Modafinil in psychiatric disorders: the promising state reconsidered
• Queen Victoria Hospital - Modafinil Patient Information Leaflet
• Medicines.org.uk - Modafinil Summary of Product Characteristics
• ScienceDirect - Modafinil
• WebMD - Modafinil Oral
• Mayo Clinic - Modafinil Oral Side Effects
• DrugBank - Modafinil
• Medicines.org.uk - Modafinil Tablets Summary of Product Characteristics
• GOV.UK - Modafinil Restricted Use Recommended
• Wikipedia - Modafinil
• BNF - Modafinil
• NICE (National Institute For Health and Care Excellence) - Draft Scope Pre-Referral
• European Medicines Agency - Modafinil Referral
• GMMMG Modafinil Primary Care Info Leaflet