Modafinil

Also known as: Provigil, Modalert, Modvigil

Eugeroic

Nootropic

Tier A

Meta-analysis of RCTs (n>500)

T1Full ProfileAcute

Wakefulness-promoting agent used for cognitive enhancement and combating fatigue. Works primarily through dopamine reuptake inhibition.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits dopamine transporter (DAT), increasing extracellular dopamine. Also affects orexin, histamine, and norepinephrine systems.

Usage Tips

Take early morning to avoid sleep disruption
Stay well hydrated throughout the day
Cycle usage to prevent tolerance (5 days on, 2 off)
Pair with L-theanine to reduce jitteriness

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to modafinil or armodafinil
History of left ventricular hypertrophy
Mitral valve prolapse
Concurrent use of hormonal contraceptives (reduced efficacy)

Performance Profile

Physical Energy

Mental Stamina

Alertness

Motivation

Dosage

50mg

min

100mg

200mg

max

Timing

Best time

Morning

1 hr

onset

10 hr

duration

Half-life

12 hr

Safety & Legal

7/10

Generally safe

Legal Status

Prescription

Mild

Moderate

Severe

Headache

1-10%mild

Nausea

1-10%mild

Insomnia

>10%moderate

Anxiety

0.1-1%moderate

Stevens-Johnson syndrome

<0.1%severe