Modafinil is the first-choice treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) that has been used safely for decades. As a stimulant, it can cause difficulty sleeping and problems with dependence.

How Modafinil works

Modafinil is an amphetamine stimulant. Researchers don't know exactly how it works for ADHD, but it increases the activity of the hormones norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which improves attention and changes behavior.

What is Modafinil used for?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Narcolepsy (daytime sleepiness)

Pharmacist tips for Modafinil

Capsule Icon

Take doses earlier in the day to avoid trouble sleeping.

Capsule Icon

Don't take Modafinil with alcohol or illicit drugs. Taking them together can lead to unwanted and potentially dangerous side effects.

Capsule Icon

Take Modafinil as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Risk of substance abuse is low when taken as prescribed.

Capsule Icon

Take with or without food.

Capsule Icon

Take doses at intervals of four to six hours.

Capsule Icon

Some acid-reducing medications can affect how long the medication stays in your body, talk to your healthcare provider if you use over the counter acid-reducing medicatios.

Capsule Icon

Avoid driving the first few days after you start Modafinil. You'll want to know how your body responds to the medication before you drive a vehicle.

What are the side effects of Modafinil?

With any medication, there are risks and benefits. Even if the medication is working, you may experience some unwanted side effects.

Warning Small

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

Allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling in head, neck or throat, or develop a rash on your body)

Serotonin Syndrome (see risks and warnings for details)

Life threatening heart problems (see risks and warnings for details)

Caution Small

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your doctor know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

What are the risks and warnings for Modafinil?

Modafinil can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options

Misuse and dependence

Risk factors: History of drug or alcohol abuse

Black Box Warning

Modafinil has a risk for misuse and dependence. Take only what's prescribed by your healthcare provider to lower your risk of dependence and overdose. People with a history of drug or alcohol abuse shouldn't take this medication.

Life-threatening heart problems or high blood pressure

Risk factors: History of heart problems

Black Box Warning

People taking Modafinil have noticed an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. In some cases, people taking Modafinil have had heart attacks, strokes and even sudden death. Anyone with a history of serious heart problems shouldn't take it. Tell your healthcare provider if you experience unexplained fainting, chest pain with physical activity or irregular heartbeat.