Adderall vs. Modafinil: How Do They Compare?

Adderall and Modafinil have gained popularity for their ability to enhance cognitive function and treat certain medical conditions. They’re both able to increase mental performance, boost focus, and ultimately increase productivity, and this makes deciding which one to use a tad challenging. In this guide, we will explore each medication, shedding light on their intended uses, benefits, side effects, and how they compare. Whether you’re a student looking to enhance concentration or a professional aiming to optimize productivity, you will discover which one is best for you. Read on.

What Is Modafinil?

Modafinil is a medication primarily prescribed to promote wakefulness and treat several sleep-related disorders, namely shift work sleep disorder (SWSD), narcolepsy, and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It was first developed in France in the 1970s as an experimental treatment for narcolepsy. Then in 1998, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved it under the brand name Provigil for the treatment of narcolepsy after the trial showed it to be safe and effective. Later in 2003, the FDA extended the approval, allowing it to be used to treat SWSD and OSA [1].

The drug has since become one of the most popular oral treatments for sleep disorders. However, it is more commonly used as a nootropic by healthy individuals aiming to enhance cognition and gain a competitive edge. It is believed to provide the following benefits:

• increased alertness;
• enhanced memory and learning;
• improved focus;
• increased creativity;
• enhanced mental acuity.

Modafinil is sometimes prescribed off-label to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, and other medical conditions. It is only approved for use in individuals over the age of 17. Although its exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, scientists, based on pharmacology, believe that it works by regulating the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.

Modafinil is safe and effective, having very few side effects and an incredibly low potential for addiction and abuse. However, you should consult a doctor before starting treatment with the drug.

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is a medication for narcolepsy and ADHD, also known as attention deficit disorder (ADD). It contains a combination of two amphetamine salts, dextroamphetamine, and amphetamine, which are powerful central nervous system (CNS) stimulants that effectively increase focus and reduce impulsivity [2]. Like several other highly important medications, it was accidentally discovered during a search for effective asthma treatment. Over time, amphetamine was repurposed for use in addressing several health purposes, including managing depression, elevating mood, and suppressing appetite to aid weight loss.

However, in the 1960s, the FDA put restrictions on its use as an anorectic (under the name Obetrol) after realizing how habit-forming it was. Then in 1996, it was approved as a treatment for ADHD under the brand name Adderall, and it has since been used for this purpose.

Unlike modafinil, it is approved for use in both children and adults. Adderall is a serious medication and should be used with great care, as it has a high potential for addiction, especially if abused.

Compare Modafinil and Adderall

Modafinil and Adderall are considered to be similar, as they have slightly similar mechanisms of action and treat similar conditions. For example, they both work by alternating the levels of dopamine and certain other neurotransmitters in the brain that are actively involved in the sleep-wake cycle. To get a better understanding of the strengths of each medication, let’s examine and compare some of their key factors [3][4]:

Drug	Modafinil	Adderall
What form is this drug available in?	oral tablet	immediate-release tablet (IR) extended-release capsule (XR)
What is it used for?	treat extreme daytime drowsiness, and other symptoms of OSA, narcolepsy, and SWSD enhance cognitive function in healthy individuals	treat difficulty with attention, hyperactivity, and other symptoms of ADHD treat narcolepsy
What benefits does it provide?	increased motivation increased energy levels enhanced cognition improved mental agility enhanced mood	improved focus increased attention reduced impulsivity reduced weight
What is it also known as?	Provigil (brand name) and generics, including Modalert, Modvigil, etc.	generic name: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine
What products does it stack well with?	L-theanine Noopept ashwagandha choline piracetam Bacopa	L-theanine antidepressants racetams alpha-GPC
What strengths does it come in?	100 mg and 200 mg	for Adderall IR: 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg for Adderall XR: 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, 30 mg
What is its half-life?	12–15 hours	4–6 hours for the immediate-release tablets 10–12 hours for the extended-release formulation
Is it a controlled substance?	yes	yes
Does it have the potential for misuse?	yes	yes
What is the typical length of treatment?	long-term	long-term

What’s more, it is worth noting that Adderall and modafinil both pose a risk of causing withdrawal symptoms. This usually occurs when their use is abruptly discontinued after taking high doses in the long term. Regardless of which medication you’re using, you can prevent the symptoms by tapering off its use. It is advisable to do this under the guidance and supervision of a doctor or healthcare professional.

Key Differences Between Adderall & Modafinil

Adderall vs Modafinil: What is the key difference? Well, both medications prove effective in treating the primary conditions they were developed for. They’re both used to treat narcolepsy and often used off-label to treat depression; however, they sure have some differences.

One of the key differences is their schedule classification. Adderall is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the US because of its high potential for habit formation and dependence. On the other hand, modafinil is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance. This is an indication that it has a lower potential for habit formation and dependence compared to Adderall.

Another notable distinction between them lies in their approved indications. Adderall is approved to treat narcolepsy and ADHD. On the other hand, while the FDA hasn’t approved modafinil for the treatment of ADHD, it is usually prescribed off-label to manage the symptoms of this disorder.

Furthermore, both drugs have different duration of effects. While Adderall’s effects usually last for about 4–6 hours, modafinil typically stays active for 12–15 hours in the system. It is worth noting that the onset of effects and duration of both drugs can vary based on several factors, including other medications taken concomitantly, dosage, metabolism, stomach contents, and other individual characteristics.

Dosage

Adderall and modafinil are both effective medications, but they must be taken correctly to get the best results from their use. While the dosage and time of administration can vary based on factors such as the individual’s medical condition, weight, and age, among others, here is the general guideline for use.

Adderall

The recommended initial dosage of the drug can vary depending on the age of the individual, the condition looking to be treated, and the response to the medication. For adults with narcolepsy, the starting dose is usually 10 mg to be taken once per day. Note that the dosage may be subject to adjustments based on response to it.

For adults and children over the age of 6 with ADHD, the recommended starting dose is typically 5 mg to be taken once or twice per day. Doctors usually find the lowest possible effective dose to minimize side effects, and that’s why the dosage is highly individualized [5].

Modafinil

Generally, the recommended starting dosage of modafinil is 200 mg. However, it may vary based on individual responses. The time of administration may also vary depending on the condition looking to be treated or the reason for use. It is important to strictly follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor, especially if you plan on taking the drug off-label for studying or other engagements.

It is worth noting that the dosages mentioned here are based on general recommendations. They may require adjustments based on individual circumstances. A doctor or healthcare professional is in the best position to determine the right starting dose, duration of use, and necessary adjustments based on your response. It is important to always consult a doctor before taking any medication.

Side Effects & Safety

Adderall and modafinil can cause side effects that may be mild or severe based on the concentration, other drugs in use, underlying health conditions, etc. Here’s an overview of their individual adverse effects:

Drug	Mild Side Effects	Severe Side Effects
Modafinil	headache nausea dizziness upset stomach insomnia	hallucinations anxiety chest pain confusion problems with memory depression palpitations
Adderall	headache nausea loss of appetite dry mouth diarrhea insomnia dizziness mood swings	palpitations lack of energy nervousness high blood pressure hallucinations shortness of breath stroke

Please, note that this table does not contain all the side effects associated with both medications. Refer to the drug information leaflet or consult a doctor for a more complete and detailed list to completely understand the individual possible risks.

Unlike modafinil, Adderall has a high potential for misuse and dependence. It is advisable to avoid it if you have a history of substance abuse, high blood pressure, or heart problems, unless under the recommendation and supervision of a doctor [6].

What’s more, it is worth noting that the serious adverse effects associated with modafinil medication rarely occur. They have been found to be mostly caused by an overdose and other forms of misuse. However, they are dangerous and can become life-threatening if left untreated. It is advisable to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of them.

Interaction with Other Meds, Food, and Alcohol

Both Adderall and modafinil may interact with certain medications, food, and alcohol. It is important to avoid interactions, as they can cause one or more of the medications taken together to be ineffective or worsen their side effects.

Modafinil may interact with hormonal medications, antifungals, antibiotics, blood thinners, antidepressants, and birth control pills [7]. Avoid taking the drug with alcohol, as it can lead to a blackout or worsen the possible side effects. While it’s OK to take modafinil with food, it is important to avoid high-fat meals, as they can delay its onset of effects.

On the other hand, Adderall may interact with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), some seizure medications, and drugs used to treat blood pressure, among others [8]. It is advisable to take the drug with food, as it can reduce the risk of experiencing stomach upset and other gastrointestinal adverse effects. However, prevent taking it with acidic foods and high-fat foods, as they can alter absorption and ultimately delay its onset of effects. Do not take Adderall with alcohol, as it can increase the risk of side effects occurring.

Where to Buy Modafinil & Adderall Drugs Online?

Modafinil and Adderall are available under various brand names online, and you can get them with just a few taps on your phone screen. However, where you buy the meds will determine their quality, effectiveness, and how much you pay for them.

If you’re interested in getting premium-quality modafinil at possibly the lowest price online, then ModafinilUSA is the place to get it. We provide ultra-fast delivery to most parts of the world and excellent customer service, and there are countless verified customer reviews to back this up. While express shipping usually takes between 7 to 12 business days, you can get your parcels within 3–4 business days or even overnight if you use our domestic shipping option available for the US, the US, and Europe.

You stand to enjoy the following benefits if you buy from us:

• a special 20% discount on all payments made with crypto;
• up to 50 Modafil MD pills on your next purchase;
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You can’t go wrong buying your meds from ModafinilUSA, as we provide a 100% money-back guarantee. This means if your parcel goes missing or is delayed at customs, you get a full refund or free reshipment. We also offer free trial samples so that you can try out our meds and then decide whether to become our customer. We are confident that the quality of our pills and the service we render will leave you convinced, just like all our happy customers.

So, Which One Is Better – Adderall vs. Modafinil

So, to the meat of the matter, Adderall vs Modafinil: which is better? Well, while both medications treat similar conditions and work similarly, affecting neurotransmitters in the brain, modafinil is generally better. And here’s why. It has fewer side effects and is generally better tolerated. Also, because it provides a relatively softer stimulating effect (unlike Adderall), it is less likely to cause anxiety and jitters. Another reason why it is considered better is that it is less habit-forming and has a much lower tendency to cause dependence or tolerance. Because of modafinil’s impressively high long-term safety profile, researchers at Oxford and Harvard universities deemed it the “world’s first safe ‘smart drug.’” So, if you aim to treat hypersomnia (excessive daytime sleepiness) or enhance your cognitive function and ultimately increase productivity, modafinil may be a better option for you.

References

1. Modafinil or Provigil Clinical Pharmacology Drug. Retrieved: June 27, 2023. Wellrx.com.
2. 6 Things to Know About Adderall. By Dr. Chatingy. Retrieved: June 27, 2023. Leehealth.org.
3. Modafinil Provigil 100 mg Tablets. Retrieved: June 27, 2023. Medicines.org.uk.
4. How Long Does Adderall Stay in Your System? Edited by Dan Wagener, M.A. Retrieved: June 27, 2023. Americanaddictioncenters.org.
5. Adderall Dosage, Forms, and Strengths. Medically reviewed by Josephine Bawab, Pharm.D. Retrieved: June 27, 2023. Singlecare.com.
6. Adderall Side Effects | Common, Serious, and Long-Term Effects. Written by Michelle Llamas, BCPA. Edited by Anastasia Climan, RDN, CD-N. Medically reviewed by Michael Swank, Ph.D. Retrieved: June 27, 2023. Drugwatch.com.
7. Modafinil – Oral (Provigil) Side Effects, Medical Uses. Retrieved: June 27, 2023. Medicinenet.com.
8. Adderall Interactions: Alcohol, Medications, and Others. By Jennifer Mitri Williamson, Pharm.D. Medically reviewed by Alex Brewer, PharmD, MBA. Published: July 25, 2022. Healthline.com.
9. Modafinil Side Effects: Common, Severe, Long Term. Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Retrieved: June 27, 2023. Drugs.com.
10. Modafinil – Oral (Provigil) Side Effects, Medical Uses, and Drug Interactions. Retrieved: June 27, 2023. Medicinenet.com.
11. Adderall Interactions: Alcohol, Medications, and Others. Written by Jennifer Mitri Williamson, Pharm.D. Medically reviewed by Alex Brewer, PharmD, MBA. Retrieved: June 27, 2023. Healthline.com.