What is Modafinil? Modafinil (brand name Provigil®) is a prescription medication primarily used to promote wakefulness in individuals with sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy, shift work sleep disorder, and obstructive sleep apnea (FDA, 2007).Beyond its approved uses, modafinil has seen growing off-label adoption as a cognitive enhancer among healthy individuals (Kumar, 2008; Porsdam-Mann & Sahakian,…

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), or Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is a long-term condition characterized by persistent fatigue that is not relieved by rest. Standard therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and graded exercise therapy (GET) have limited effectiveness for many patients. Modafinil, a medication approved to treat excessive daytime sleepiness in narcolepsy, is increasingly considered…

Both Modafinil and Methylphenidate are used to treat conditions characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and attention difficulties — but which is right for you? What Are Modafinil and Methylphenidate? Modafinil Modafinil (Provigil) is a wakefulness-promoting agent primarily prescribed for narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and shift work sleep disorder (SWSD). Though the exact mechanism isn’t…

Interest in nootropics and psychedelics has surged, particularly for their potential to enhance cognitive function and creativity. Modafinil, a prescription drug known for treating sleep disorders and boosting alertness, and psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms known for altering perception and addressing mental health challenges, have drawn significant attention. Exploring their combined effects reveals…

Modafinil is a widely used cognitive enhancer that promotes wakefulness and alertness. While it is not classified as highly addictive, long-term users may experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking it. Key Takeaways Understanding Modafinil Withdrawal Why Does Modafinil Withdrawal Happen? Modafinil influences dopamine, histamine, and orexin systems, which regulate motivation, energy, and wakefulness. When…

Modafinil is a prescription medication widely used to treat excessive sleepiness caused by narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and shift work disorder (SWD). The standard recommended dose is 200 mg once daily, but some patients and clinicians consider higher doses of 400 mg to extend wakefulness or manage persistent symptoms. This raises an important question:…

Modafinil, commonly prescribed to treat conditions like narcolepsy and obstructive sleep apnea, is generally considered safe. However, a rare and serious adverse reaction—Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)—has been reported in association with modafinil and its enantiomer, armodafinil (U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2015). Understanding the risks and early symptoms of SJS is crucial for timely intervention. Key…

Modafinil is a wakefulness-promoting agent approved for treating narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and shift work disorder. Since its approval in 1998, it has become one of the most widely discussed “smart drugs,” gaining popularity beyond clinical use for its potential to improve alertness, focus, and productivity. But how does Modafinil affect social life, mood,…