Modafinil 200mg: A potential treatment for substance abuse disorder

Addiction is one of the most prevalent issues affecting a large percentage of a country's population. According to the statistics by the addiction center, about 21 million Americans suffer from at least one addiction disorder, with nearly 10% of the people receiving proper treatment [1]. For most people, the first step toward the recovery journey is acknowledging their struggle with dependence, and the next step involves finding a treatment program. 

One therapeutic drug that can be a perfect choice for addiction treatment is Modafinil 200mg. The scientific and clinical studies showcase the acute physiological and behavioral effects of Modafinil addiction treatment. This blog depicts Modafinil's neurobiological action and potency as a possible therapeutic option for abuse and addiction. 

 

Abuse Potential: Is Modafinil Addictive?

Modafinil 200mg is a Schedule IV controlled substance that cannot be bought without a valid prescription. According to the United States Drug Enforcement Agency, Modafinil has a low potency for abuse and dependency. However, several studies contradict this fact, thus establishing the possibility of the Nootropic causing dependency. 

• A Journal of the American Medical Association study reports that using Modafinil blocks the dopamine reuptake, causing a similar effect as cocaine [2]. 

• The use of Modafinil by students for its concentration-enhancing ability makes such users vulnerable to Modafinil addiction.  

• A case study on PubMed Central is one of the few reports on Modafinil addiction and dependency in patients administering the Nootropic for a prolonged period for excessive sleepiness. 

However, actual physical dependence from using Modafinil 200mg is very rare. The FDA also reports Modafinil to be safe with a low possibility and risk for addiction. However, people often experience Modafinil not working if administered incorrectly or taken for a prolonged period. 

How Does Modafinil Addiction Treatment Work?

Modafinil is a brain stimulant with neurochemical action on the brain's hypothalamus. It is a dopamine reuptake inhibitor that keeps the hormone active for longer. The role of dopamine is associated with the sensation of well-being, happiness, and pleasure. 

One of the typical issues with most recovery cases is relapse. Studies reflect that about 40 to 60 percent of people relapse within 30 days of treatment [3]. Most Psychiatrists quote,

“You are not defined by your relapses but by your decision to remain in recovery.”

People must acknowledge the risk of relapse and be aware of their triggers and emotions. Modafinil's ability to enhance a person's motivation and concentration enables addicts to stay focused, thus further preventing the possibility of relapse. 

Modafinil addiction treatment also assists such people by elevating the secretion of serotonin and noradrenaline, which supports the feeling of containment in people. Brand versions of Modafinil show similar efficacy in treating addiction signs in people. The Modalert 200mg is a popular trade name for the generic Modafinil, which works within 30 minutes of intake. The low price of Modalert compared to Modafinil makes it a popular choice among people. 

The Utility of Modafinil in Addiction Recovery

Research indicates that the use of Modafinil addiction treatment helps individuals recover from-

 

Methamphetamine abuse-

The use of Modafinil helps in treating sleepiness and lethargy associated with recovery from Methamphetamine.

 

Cocaine abuse-

Modafinil 200mg addresses drowsiness and lethargy and also assists people in staying focused on their goals. 

Along with being an effective remedy for sleepiness and fatigue, several studies suggest that using Modafinil may have some utility in withdrawal management. Reports also suggest using Provigil as replacement therapy for cocaine and methamphetamine, as it shows promising results in the early recovery stage. It also indicates reducing cravings during the withdrawal period. 

The main goal of employing Modafinil addiction treatment for withdrawal management is to avoid relapse and to be able to address the condition. Even though Modafinil shows promising results, the American Society of Addiction Medicine does not have a formal protocol for this procedure. 

Is Modafinil Most Effective When Combined with Addiction Therapy?

 

 

Modafinil addiction treatment is not a cure and must be considered part of a holistic approach toward a better life. The core of all addiction treatment is psychotherapy (also called counseling). Nootropics can help with relapse and withdrawal signs; however, their use does not address the root cause of addiction.

The conjugation of therapy with Modafinil 200mg ensures a better result. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly prescribed concomitantly with Modafinil. 

Modafinil, as an adjunct to CBT, tends to

• Reduce excessive daytime sleepiness as measured by the Epworth sleepiness scale.

• Enhance compliance with CBT. 

Along with CBT, a few other effective addiction therapies that can enhance the effects of Modafinil are-

 

Detoxification-

It allows the body to eliminate addictive substances. Detox is often preferred as substance withdrawal can cause life-threatening physical symptoms. Since detox does not treat the condition, Modafinil addiction treatment is commonly advised. 

 

12-Step Facilitation-

The 12-step program effectively treats alcohol and substance abuse. It helps in the recognition of several negative consequences that can be emotional, social, and physical. It also involves group meetings for mutual support and discussions. 

 

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)-

It helps you recognize your negative thoughts and help you overcome those feelings. It enhances the power of logical thinking in users. 

 

Contingency Management-

This therapy helps to reinforce your positive thoughts and behavior. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, this therapy with Modafinil helps avoid relapse. 

Scientific evidence of the potency of Modafinil addiction treatment 

All claims made on the potency of Modafinil addiction treatment are backed by several indefatigable pieces of research. To support the authenticity and credibility of the efficacy of Nootropics as an effective addiction treatment, we here have an overview of some promising research reports. 

 

Modafinil for the treatment of cocaine dependence

Despite years of active research, cocaine dependence has no US-approved pharmaceutical treatment. In 2007, about 1.16 million people in the USA were dependent on cocaine [4]. 

The use of Modafinil addiction treatment for cocaine is multi-fold. The Nootropic has stimulant properties that are effective for alleviating stimulant withdrawal symptoms.  In human clinical tests, it is observed to attenuate subjective responses to cocaine [4]. 

The action of Modafinil on the orexin and glutamate system can help restore homeostasis (a self-regulating process by which a person maintains stability) disturbed by chronic cocaine use. A study by Donovan showcases the safety and tolerance of Modafinil in phase I interaction studies with cocaine [4]. 

 

 

The above graph from a trial of Modafinil for Cocaine dependence portrays weekly cocaine abstinence by Modafinil and Placebo. It depicts the efficacy of Modafinil addiction treatment over Placebo [5]. 

Modafinil 200mg helps manage the following signs of cocaine addiction and withdrawal [5].

 

 

Modafinil for the Treatment of Methamphetamine Dependence

Methamphetamine (meth) addiction is a relapsing disorder that is treatment resistant. To date, FDA has not approved any medication for meth dependency. Multiple compounds have shown effective results in improving the condition of people. One such drug is Modafinil 200mg. It offers a potential pharmacotherapy for meth addiction and alleviates the withdrawal symptoms such as mood swings, impaired cognition, and poor impulse control [6]. 

Clinical findings indicate that the use of Modafinil 200mg is safe to use in meth addicts. It does not result in euphoria, medical risks, and craving. In addition, using the Nootropic improves the memory in participants with meth dependency [6]. 

Animal studies show the use of Modafinil addiction treatment helps to attenuate the reinstatement of self-administration of meth in addicts [7]. 

A study on the role of Modafinil in treating patients with methamphetamine dependence showcases its severity of withdrawal symptoms along with its duration and severity of carving. The study shows that at the onset of the treatment, the charts of the patients taking Modafinil and the control group (receiving different addiction treatments) are similar. However, there is a steep decline in the charts of patients receiving Modafinil addiction treatment from the first month of therapy. The two groups showcase a significant difference in their severity and duration of craving with signs of withdrawal [8].

 

Help for Modafinil and other substance abuse 

Even though the use of Modafinil addiction treatment has shown exemplary results in cocaine and Methamphetamine abuse, the Nootropic itself has a low scope of dependency. However, if taken correctly, the use of Modafinil is completely safe. So, if you or someone you know is misusing Modafinil or other chemical substances, you can reach your nearest medical facility or call the numbers listed below.