Modafinil vs Adderall: which one should I take?

Looking for the right medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be difficult, especially when you’re weighing side effects and drug interactions. You should consider the benefits and drawbacks of Modafinil vs Adderall for ADHD treatment to make an informed decision with your healthcare provider. 

In this article, we discuss each medication so that you can clearly understand how Modafinil and Adderall work so you’ll know what to expect. Even if you have a strong grasp of your symptoms, it’s wise to seek help from a healthcare professional rather than relying solely on self-assessment. Klarity connects you with ADHD specialists for fast, affordable, and personalized online or in-person ADHD treatment. 

Take the first step toward ADHD symptom relief and find a provider on Klarity today. 

This article discusses suicide, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or is in crisis, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or dialing the Lifeline’s previous phone number, 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) in the U.S. 

How Modafinil and Adderall work

Modafinil and Adderall both work as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants that affect neurotransmitters in the brain. They can increase your level of alertness or focus and help you maintain a general feeling of wakefulness. 

When comparing Modafinil vs Adderall, the 2 medications have stimulant qualities. The neurotransmitters that are targeted by these medications are also unique, as Modafinil targets dopamine, while Adderall targets serotonin and norepinephrine.

If you have high blood pressure or another heart condition, you need to exercise caution when taking any kind of stimulant, including Modafinil and Adderall. Both medications can raise blood pressure and be potentially harmful if you have such ailments. 

If you experience a severe headache, chest pain, uneven heartbeat, or shortness of breath after taking either of these drugs, stop taking them and contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Modafinil (provigil) for ADHD

Modafinil is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), which means it can be habit-forming. You should always take this medication exactly as prescribed in order to avoid adverse reactions and side effects. 

Forms and dosages of modafinil

Modafinil is available in 100 milligrams and 200 milligrams oral tablets. Still, the dosing will vary depending on your health history, current symptoms, and the recommendation of your healthcare provider. 

Indications and conditions treated

Modafinil is primarily used to treat narcolepsy, excessive sleepiness caused by obstructive sleep apnea, or shift work sleep disorder. However, it can be used off-label to treat ADHD. Off-label use is when a healthcare provider prescribes Modafinil because it benefits your ADHD symptoms, even though it’s not U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved (FDA-approved) to treat ADHD. 

Costs

The cost of the generic modafinil ranges from as low as $15 for 30 days of the 100-milligram tablets with discount coupons to the average retail price of $294.79. The cost for the 200-milligram modafinil tablet is around $217 for a supply of 20 tablets. Most insurances cover generic modafinil — contact your provider for your exact cost. Your medical provider may be able to help you find coupons or discounts as well. 

Side effects

Everyone experiences side effects differently and you should always consult your healthcare provider if they persist or worsen. Some of the common side effects of taking Modafinil include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Nervousness
• Dizziness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Dry mouth
• Heartburn
• Muscle stiffness
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea

More serious side effects include:

• Irregular heartbeat
• Changes in mood
• Confusion
• Depression
• Hallucinations
• Thoughts of suicide
• Steven Johnson Syndrome: A severe skin reaction that can be triggered by medication or infection, causing the skin to blister and peel off.

In cases of a severe allergic reaction, fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing may occur. If you experience these or other serious side effects, contact your healthcare provider or call 911 immediately.

Warnings for use

Dependency warning: modafinil is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance in the U.S. While Schedule IV substances have a lower potential for abuse compared to drugs in higher schedules, such as Schedule II or Schedule III, they still require a prescription from a healthcare professional for legal use. 

Additionally, while the chances of becoming dependent on modafinil are low, it’s important to use modafinil only as prescribed by a healthcare professional and to follow their instructions to ensure safe and appropriate use of the medication. Side effects of modafinil misuse include gastrointestinal issues, mood disturbances, disrupted sleep patterns, and — in rare cases — psychosis.

Modafinil shouldn’t be taken while pregnant, as it may harm an unborn baby, nor should it be taken with hormonal birth control, as it could render such medication ineffective. This medication can also have adverse effects if you have heart or blood pressure conditions and should be taken with caution. 

Modafinil can also lower the effectiveness of hormonal birth control pills. Another form of birth control may be necessary when taking this medication.

Adderall

Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance, which means that there’s a high potential for misuse. Like any controlled substance, it should only be taken if prescribed by a healthcare provider to avoid negative side effects.

Forms and dosages

Adderall is available in 5 milligrams, 7.5 milligrams, 10 milligrams, 12.5 milligrams, 15 milligrams, 20 milligrams and 30 milligrams tablets. It’s also available in an immediate-release and extended-release form. 

Indications and conditions treated

Adderall is approved by the FDA for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Additionally, it is sometimes prescribed off-label to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. 

Costs

Because of its status as 1 of the primary medications for ADHD and narcolepsy, Adderall can be affordable with or without insurance. Without insurance, brand-name Adderall can cost about $342 for a a 30-day supply. 

The generic form of Adderall can cost much less, with a 30-day supply of 5 milligram tablets averaging about $20. A 5 milligram dose of the generic extended-release tablets can cost $45 for 30 days, as extended-release medications tend to cost more than immediate-release medications.

Many insurance plans cover Adderall — contact your provider to learn your exact cost. In addition, your medical provider may be able to help you find coupons to help alleviate your cost.

Side effects

The most common side effects of Adderall are the following:

• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Dry mouth
• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Nervousness
• Trouble sleeping

This medication may raise blood pressure, and other serious side effects include: 

• Shortness of breath
• Chest/jaw/left arm pain
• Fainting
• Severe headache
• Irregular heartbeat
• Swelling of the ankles or feet
• Extreme fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Trouble speaking
• Confusion

If you experience any of these, seek medical care immediately.

Warnings for use

As a Schedule II stimulant and controlled substance, Adderall carries a higher risk for dependence than Modafinil. Long-term misuse can result in side effects such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, insomnia, loss of appetite, dry mouth, anxiety, irritability, and, in rare cases, psychiatric symptoms such as hallucinations or paranoia.

To avoid becoming dependent on Adderall, it’s important to follow your prescribed dosage and duration. Regular communication with your prescribing healthcare professional helps monitor effectiveness and necessity. Awareness of signs of dependence, such as drug cravings, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms, is important, and seeking guidance from a healthcare professional for concerns about dependency or exploring alternative treatment options is advisable.

If Adderall stops working for you, your healthcare provider may recommend that you increase your dose. Don’t attempt to increase the dosage on your own — only take your Adderall as prescribed.

Modafinil vs. Adderall: an overview 

Which ADHD medication will best treat you: Modafinil vs Adderall?

Deciding between Modafinil and Adderall to manage ADHD symptoms requires careful consideration of their unique properties and how they align with individual needs.

Modafinil can be beneficial for those who struggle with daytime drowsiness or need to stay alert during irregular work hours. Adderall is known for its ability to enhance focus and concentration. Unlike Modafinil, Adderall is a stimulant that can potentially lead to habit formation and carries a risk of side effects. Despite this, Adderall remains a popular choice for ADHD treatment due to its effectiveness in managing symptoms related to attention and impulsivity.

According to a study, Modafinil has shown promising results in enhancing cognitive performance and alertness in healthy adults, similar to the effects of Adderall. Another research focused specifically on ADHD treatment in adults compared Modafinil and dextroamphetamine, the active ingredient in Adderall, finding both significantly improved ADHD symptoms. The studies indicated that Modafinil could be a viable alternative to Adderall, with both medications generally well-tolerated by patients.

Neither Modafinil nor Adderall is ideal for individuals with severe liver or kidney conditions. When deciding between these medications, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your specific medical history and needs. 

Start ADHD treatment today with a provider on Klarity 

At Klarity, we understand the importance of accessible and efficient mental health care and proper treatment with the right medications. 

Your mental health shouldn’t have to wait. Find a provider on Klairty and have an appointment in as little as 48 hours.

Modafinil vs Adderall FAQs 

Which ADHD medication is right for you? 

When it comes to ADHD medications like Modafinil and Adderall, both work well, but they have their own characteristics. Modafinil is known for promoting wakefulness and can be helpful for those with ADHD who struggle with excessive daytime sleepiness. On the other hand, Adderall is a stimulant that boosts focus and attention, but it might cause more jitteriness or anxiety for some people.

While both Modafinil and Adderall are effective for managing ADHD symptoms, the way they work and their potential side effects differ. It’s best to speak with a healthcare provider to help you figure out which medication is the best fit for your needs.

Can I get prescribed Adderall or Modafinil online?

Yes, you can get a prescription for Adderall or modafinil online through licensed healthcare providers on platforms like Klarity. 

How long does it take for Modafinil and Adderall to start working?

The time it takes for Modafinil and Adderal to start working depends on factors such as dosage, individual metabolism, and the medication’s form (immediate-release vs. extended-release). Generally, you’ll start feeling the effects within 30 minutes to an hour.

If you’re taking Adderall in its immediate-release form, it might kick in a bit quicker than the extended-release version. Remember, it’s important to stick to your provider’s advice on dosage and timing to get the best results from your ADHD treatment.

Can you take Modafinil or Adderall for long-term ADHD treatment?

Both modafinil and Adderall can be used for long-term ADHD treatment under the guidance of a healthcare provider. However, regular monitoring and periodic reassessment of treatment effectiveness and safety are needed to ensure optimal outcomes and minimize potential side effects. 

Long-term use of medications like Adderall may require dosage adjustments or occasional medication holidays to prevent tolerance or dependence. Licensed providers may also explore alternative treatment options or adjunctive therapies as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for long-term ADHD management.

Sources

American Addiction Centers, “Adderall vs. Modafinil: How Do They Compare?” Editorial Staff, June 29, 2023, https://americanaddictioncenters.org/adderall/vs-modafinil

Choosing Therapy, “Modafinil Vs Adderall: How Do They Compare?” Pamela Wiltfang, PharmD, MPH, Sept. 21, 2023, https://www.choosingtherapy.com/modafinil-vs-adderall/

Drugs.com, “Modafinil vs Adderall: What’s the difference?” Sept. 13, 2023, https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/modafinil-adderall-difference-3125139/

National Library of Medicine, “Behavioral and subjective effects of d-amphetamine and modafinil in healthy adults,” Angela P Makris, Craig R Rush, Robert C Frederich, Alisia C Taylor, Thomas H Kelly, April, 15, 2007, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17469936/

National Library of Medicine, “Efficacy of modafinil compared to dextroamphetamine for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults,” F B Taylor, J Russo, Winter 2000, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11191692/

Ocean Recovery, “Modafinil Vs. Adderall: A Side-By-Side Comparison,” Amanda Stevens, Oct. 19, 2023, https://www.oceanrecovery.com/addiction-blog/modafinil-vs-adderall/

Verywell Health, “Comparing Modafinil vs. Adderall,” Karen Berger, PharmD, May 30, 2023, https://www.verywellhealth.com/modafinil-vs-adderall-uses-efficacy-safety-7499419