Modafinil Dangers- Recognizing And Managing Modafinil Side Effects

 

Wondering about the Modafinil side effects? We have you covered. 

Modafinil is a non-amphetamine Central Nervous System (CNS) stimulant with demonstrable effectiveness in treating daytime sleepiness. Available under the Provigil and Modalert brand names, it has significantly improved cognitive functioning. 

In addition to its approved use for treating excessive somnolence, Modafinil is widely used off-label for cognitive enhancement. 

According to a 2012 study by Dongsoo Kim entitled Practical Use and Risk of Modafinil, it has no or fewer adverse effects than those found in traditional psychostimulants such as methylphenidate and amphetamine. So, let us uncover the range of Modafinil's adverse effects, from mild to severe, to make an informed decision. 

 

What Are The Three More Common Side Effects Of Modafinil?

The three commonly reported side effects of Modafinil are listed below. 

Modafinil And Headache

Modafinil causes a "Tension-type headache," often characterized by tightness around the forehead. It is associated with the over-activation of the nerves due to its activity in the Central Nervous System. 

Modafinil headaches may result from these key factors-

• Depletion of Magnesium- Modafinil is known to stimulate the brain by depleting magnesium, resulting in headaches. Further, the appetite-suppressing effect of the Nootropic prevents the body from replenishing the nutrients through a balanced diet. 

• Overstimulation- Modafinil activates the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), which is otherwise only activated when a person senses danger (usually for 30 minutes to 1 or 2 hours). However, Modafinil activates the sympathetic nervous system for 22 hours, resulting in headaches. 

Does Modafinil Cause Migraines?

The overstimulation of the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS) by Modafinil can result in migraines, according to a 2004 study by Stephen J. Peroutka. The study proposes that the sympathetic dysfunction in migraines is caused by an imbalance of the sympathetic co-transmitters (Norepinephrine). 

Findings from the study also suggest that the depletion of sympathetic norepinephrine levels characterizes a Modafinil migraine attack in conjunction with an increase in the release of other sympathetic co-transmitters such as prostaglandins, dopamine, and adenosine triphosphate (also known as ATP, which plays a critical role in providing energy). 

Modafinil further increases the secretion of two neurotransmitters, namely Orexin, and glutamate, that are not just associated with increasing wakefulness but are also responsible for causing migraines when secreted in larger quantities. 

Modafinil Causes Nausea

Provigil’s clinical trial reports nausea as a common side effect of Modafinil. 

Nausea, a feeling or an urge to vomit, arises from Modafinil due to the following notable physiological factors. 

Changes in Neurotransmitters - Modafinil can affect the secretion of neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine and serotonin, which affect the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) in the brain's fourth ventricle.

A 2021 study by Weixia Zhong et al. found that dopamine-based agonists that activate dopamine secretion in the body can evoke nausea and vomiting. 

Stimulation of Receptors - Modafinil directly or indirectly stimulates the receptors in the gastrointestinal tract or the brain, leading to the sensation of nausea. 

Gastrointestinal Irritation - In a few individuals, Modafinil intake irritates the lining of the stomach or intestines, leading to nausea.

Muscle Pain From Modafinil Use 

Modafinil causes muscle pain due to its diuretic effects, causing dehydration. 

Findings from a 2006 study by Michelle A. Cleary et al. entitled Dehydration and Symptoms of Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness in Normothermic Men suggest that normal skeletal muscle function is affected by physiologic states such as dehydration.

The study states that dehydration significantly reduces blood flow to muscles due to reductions in blood pressure and perfusion pressure (pressure required to push blood through the blood vessels). 

 

18 Mild And Less Common Modafinil Side Effects

The eighteen mild side effects of Modafinil or its brand drugs, Modalert or Provigil, are listed below.

A few of these mild Modafinil side effects that may require medical attention if they give rise to other health concerns have been elaborated on and discussed in detail below.

Gastrointestinal (GI) Effect- Diarrhea Associated With Modafinil 

Modafinil can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including diarrhea, due to its slow breakdown in the intestinal tract, irritating the intestinal tissue.

The activation of the flight system, or SNS, by Modafinil, causes stimulation affecting the lower intestine, resulting in diarrhea.  

A 2019 study entitled Modafinil as a Stimulant for Military Aviators by Ooi T is a retrospective case series of 243 aircrew members taking Modafinil 100 mg. The study suggests that a cumulative incidence of 0.41% for diarrhea was reported over the period of 7 years, from  September 2011 to September 2018.

Does Modafinil Cause Constipation?

Modafinil may cause constipation, depending on the dosage strength and the metabolic activity of the patient. 

A case report by Rachel V. Maser follows a 74-year-old man with a history of bipolar I disorder who was prescribed Modafinil at 50mg/day and titrated by 50 mg/day every 10 days, as described in the image below. 

 

 

The dose was increased to 200 mg/day on the 30th day of the treatment. On the 44th day, severe constipation (no bowel movement in about 14 days) was reported, along with other health risks. 

Modafinil And Anxiety

Scientific literature suggests mixed effects of Modafinil on anxiety. Some studies show anxiety-generating (anxiogenic) effects, whereas others suggest anxiety-reducing (anxiolytic) effects in users.

 

- The Anxiogenic Effect Of Modafinil On Anxiety

The FDA states that one of the psychiatric symptoms that may result in Modafinil treatment discontinuation is anxiety, which may affect about 5% of its users [1]. 

Dr. Rahul Kansal, a Neuropsychiatrist, explains that the ability of Modafinil to activate the sympathetic nervous system is a key reason for its ability to cause anxiety symptoms. 

 

- Study Confirming The Anxiolytic Effect Of Modafinil On Anxiety 

Adrian Johnson, in 2017, suggested that Modafinil has an anxiolytic property that helps decrease anxiety-like behavior in zebrafish across a range of doses [2]. This was further confirmed by animal studies that suggested Modafinil either has no effect or an anxiolytic effect on the anxiety scale [3]. 

Effect of Modafinil On Appetite

Modafinil suppresses appetite and increases metabolism by increasing the level of certain neurotransmitters such as histamine and dopamine. 

• Histamine is associated with appetite suppression. 

• Elevated dopamine levels are observed to enhance motivation, thereby helping individuals adhere to dietary regimens and sustain focus on tasks over extended durations. Therefore consequently reducing the time for food consumption.

A clinical trial by Angela P. Makris et al. in 2004 suggests that Modafinil was efficacious in decreasing food intake without significantly affecting the heart rate. 

Another study in  2008 by Gydmer A. Perez et al. confirmed these results in shift workers, where a daily Modafinil dose of 400 mg decreased the daily calory intake by 38%, and Modafinil 200 mg decreased it by 18%, leading to a decrease in the perfection of hunger. 

 

Understanding the Research 

• Study Population- Eleven healthy research participants, five of whom were female and six were male. 

• Study Groups- All the participants were housed in a residential laboratory at the New York State Psychiatric Institute in groups of 3 to 4 individuals. 

• Dose Selection And Study Design- 

  • Placebo and Modafinil of 200 mg and 400 mg were administered once daily. 

  • The participants worked on two different shifts- Day and Night shifts.  

  • The shifts were alternated three times during the study and were followed by an "off" day. 

  • The 8th and 16th days were "drug washout" days, where the participants received placebo modafinil before being switched to another drug condition.

• Study Results- This graph from the study shows how Modafinil affects the intake of carbohydrates and fat in people with day and night shifts.  

Modafinil decreased total caloric intake without selectively altering the proportion of total calories derived from protein, carbohydrates, or fat. 

Modafinil Weight Loss

The appetite-suppressing effect of Modafinil results in lower calorie intake and weight loss. 

A Case Report by David C. Henderson concluded that Modafinil use resulted in a 10 lb or 4.53592 kg weight loss over a period of 6 weeks. 

Modafinil Causes Dry Mouth

Clinical trials by the FDA suggest dry mouth to be a mild yet commonly occurring side effect of Modafinil. Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is a condition characterized by oral dryness due to diminished or reduced secretion of saliva. 

Dry mouth due to Modafinil was supported by a 1998 study by T. E. Scammell and J. Matheson entitled Modafinil: a Novel Stimulant for the Treatment of Narcolepsy. 

A 1992 study by S. Tanganelli et al., published in Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Archives of Pharmacology, the oldest existing pharmacological journal, suggests that Modafinil does not directly affect the secretion of the acetylcholine neurotransmitter. The weak anticholinergic effects of Modafinil are the key reason for dry mouth in individuals. 

Acetylcholine transmission affects oral health through impairment of salivary function, causing hyposalivation (a reduction in saliva secretion), suggests a study by Szilvia Arany in 2022. This hyposalivation associated with acetylcholine results in xerostomia, or dry mouth.

A dry mouth caused by Modafinil is a known risk factor for dental caries and should be given immediate medical attention. 

Modafinil And Blood Pressure

Modafinil may significantly increase diastolic or systolic blood pressure. 

However, in short-term use, monitoring blood pressure showed no significant change in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. 

In contrast with the previous findings, a study conducted by researchers Indu Taneja et al. found that the resting blood pressure (BP) significantly increased 2 hours after taking Modafinil. The study suggests that Modafinil increases systolic BP in response to orthostatic tilt (the action of changing your body position from lying down or sitting to standing up). Researchers concluded that Modafinil affected how the body's nervous system responds to standing up. The orthostatic tilt caused an increase in blood pressure. 

Is Modafinil Bad For Your Liver?

Modafinil can cause Liver damage only in people with pre-existing hepatic disorders. Since Modafinil and its brand versions are metabolized in the liver (90%), people with impaired hepatic function may experience a decrease in plasma clearance and a prolonged half-life. 

According to the data available from the FDA, the metabolism and pharmacokinetics of Modafinil were examined in patients with liver cirrhosis. Three patients had stage B or B+ cirrhosis, whereas 6 patients had stage C or C+ cirrhosis. The study suggests that in such individuals, the oral clearance of Modafinil was decreased by 60% [5]. 

How Does Modafinil Cause Liver Damage? 

Hepatotoxicity of the liver by Modafinil in clinical trials by Bethesda undertaken by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases in 2012 was associated with a low rate of elevation of the enzymes alkaline phosphatase and aminotransferase. 

A high level of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and aminotransferase (ALT) is a sign of liver damage. 

The trial suggests that despite widescale use, no cases of apparent liver damage or injury due to Modafinil have been reported. However, rare instances of Stevens-Johnson syndrome associated with liver complications from Modafinil are seen. 

Modafinil And Sweating

Modafinil sweating is commonly reported in people who abruptly discontinue treatment and suffer from withdrawal symptoms.

How Does Modafinil Cause Sweating? 

Sweating due to Modafinil is predominantly caused by its ability to raise the body temperature. 

A clinical trial by Tom M. McLellan et al. suggests an elevation of skin and rectal temperatures in response to Modafinil administration during exercise and the resting phase. This chart from the study shows how Modafinil affects the oral temperature after administration for over 72 hours. 

 

 

The thermogenic property of Modafinil increases the core body temperature by up to 0.5°C. 

As the body's internal temperature rises, the hypothalamus region of the brain instructs the sweat glands to start cooling the body by producing sweat. 

Modafinil Causes Dehydration

Modafinil dehydration results from two reasons-

1. It increases focus to the extent that one often forgets to drink water and stay hydrated. 

2. Modafinil is a diuretic drug that causes frequent urination and dehydration [4]. 

Dehydration due to Modafinil can also cause headaches. 

 

3 Severe And Uncommon Modafinil Side Effects 

Severe Modafinil side effects are rare. Three adverse effects of Modafinil that require immediate medical attention are listed below. 

Cardiovascular Events - Chest Pain Associated with Modafinil 

Cardiovascular side effects of Modafinil, including chest pain, palpitations (10%), and transient ischemic Twave changes on ECG (1%), are reported in clinical trials listed by the FDA. 

Chest pain after administrating 400 mg of Modafinil along with 3 to 7 grams of glutamate in the form of soy sauce was reported in a Case Report by Peter T. Morgan (2008). In another case, a 35-year-old Narcoleptic patient with syncopal episodes (sudden drops in heart rate)  experienced cardiac arrest after 27 days of Modafinil treatment (300 mg/day in divided doses). 

Does Modafinil Affect Heart Rate?

Modafinil causes Tachycardia or an increase in heart rate in 10% of users and Bradycardia in about 1% of users. The effect of Modafinil on the heart rate can be explained through the following scientific reasoning- 

 

- Increasing The Secretion Of Serotonin - Serotonin [5-hydroxy-tryptamine (5-HT)], a neurotransmitter, increases heart rate and the force of heart contraction. It also affects coronary constriction, fibrosis of cardiac valves, thrombosis, and arrhythmias. 

A study supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute suggests that serotonin neurotransmitters can also adversely affect the heart's mitral valve (one of four valves in the heart that helps the blood flow in the right direction), causing degenerative mitral regurgitation. 

 

- Central Dopamine Receptor Agonist Activity - Modafinil affects the cardiovascular system by increasing the secretion of dopamine, which enables better cognition, but also acts as a peripheral vasostimulant that controls the diameter of blood vessels. 

Low infusion rate or, if present in lower amounts (0.5 to 2 micrograms/kg per minute), dopamine can cause vasodilation. However, if secreted in a higher dosage, it can result in vasoconstriction,  leading to increased cardiac output. 

Rash From Modafinil Use

A person may develop a rash from Modafinil due to its ability to increase the secretion of histamine that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. In addition to its wakefulness-promoting property, histamine is a signaling chemical that the immune system releases to fight allergens. 

High levels of histamine in the body can trigger an immune response, resulting in symptoms of skin irritation or rash. 

Can Modafinil Cause Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)? 

In rare cases, Modafinil can cause Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, a serious skin disorder that results in a purplish to reddish rash or blisters. 

The clinical database of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) included a study with 5849 patients (4227 adults and 1622 children) on Modafinil. Three cases of serious hypersensitivity reactions associated with Modafinil were reported in children, as shown below in the table. 

 

 

The study suggests that 4.1% of patients taking Modafinil for obstructive sleep apnea and 5.7% of Narcoleptic patients suffer from skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. 

Seizure Associated With Modafinil Intake 

Modafinil, categorized as a psychostimulant, can induce seizures in healthy subjects, according to a 2002 study by P. G. Zagnoni and C. Albano. 

In contrast with the previous study, a more recent study by Vanessa A. Garcia et al. suggests no association was found between modafinil and seizures. The study found that of 205 epileptic patients taking Modafinil, only 6 patients were interrupted by seizures. Vanessa A. Garcia thus concludes that the intake of Modafinil is potentially safe for such a neurological group of people. 

Based on the findings of our previous research studies, it is safe to assert that although the probability of experiencing a seizure due to Modafinil is low, it is not entirely devoid of the health risk.

 

5 Rare Side Effects Of Modafinil

Five rare yet notable Modafinil adverse effects include acne, smelly urine, psychosis, hair loss, and its effect on sexual health. 

Modafinil Acne

Acne due to Modafinil is a rare side effect that researchers or case studies have not scientifically reported. However, a possible clinical explanation for people experiencing acne following the admiration of Modafinil is-

• Modafinil acts on the immune cells and resident glial cells that provide physiological and structural support to the neurons of the central nervous system, affecting both adaptive and innate immune responses. 

• As in most cases, bacteria cause acne, and a low immune response can lead to acne breakouts. 

Modafinil Causing Urine Smell

Genitourinary side effects such as foul urine odor from Modafinil are rare and affect about 0.1% of users [5]. 

The Modafinil urine smell can be better understood through its chemical structure, as shown below. 

 

 

Modafinil is classified as a sulphinylbenzhydryl molecule containing a sulfinyl group. It is a sulfur molecule double-bonded to an oxygen atom [6]. 

According to Dr. Kaaki, medications that contain the sulfa group are a major cause of urine smelling bad [7]. 

When medicine containing a sulfur group is ingested, it undergoes various metabolic reactions to produce a sulfur-containing metabolite excreted in the urine, causing a foul smell. However, it is essential to note that not everyone taking Modafinil will experience this odor, as individual differences in metabolism and sensitivity can play a major role.

Modafinil-Induced Psychosis

Cases of psychosis associated with Modafinil are few and are more prevalent in patients with a history of mental health disorders. 

Psychiatric adverse effects of Modafinil include nervousness (1%), anxiety (1%), confusion (<1%), depression (<1%), and agitation (<1%). Postmarketing Psychiatric reactions include hallucinations, mania, aggression, delusions, and suicidal tendencies. 

A case study by Harvey Patel suggests that Psychosis is a very rare side effect of Modafinil. The study includes a 48-year-old female with Excessive daytime sleepiness taking Modafinil 200 mg twice daily (400 mg a day). The development of delusions and auditory hallucinations was reported, which dissipated following the discontinuation of the Modafinil 200 mg tablets. 

Caution should be taken while prescribing Modafinil or its brand drugs, Provigil and Modalert, to patients with a prior psychiatric history. 

Does Modafinil Improve ADHD?

Modafinil is a conventional second line of treatment for adults with ADHD. Contrary to our previous psychosis findings, Modafinil is prescribed off-label for ADHD and helps improve attention span in such patients. 

Modafinil significantly enhances concentration and attention by increasing the secretion of dopamine and histamine in the brain. 

Modafinil Hair Loss

Hair loss is a rare side effect and is reported in about 1.15% of patients, as per a report by eHealthMe, a data analysis company. 

How Does Modafinil Cause Hair Loss?

A key scientific reason for hair loss or alopecia from Modafinil includes its ability to increase dopamine secretion. 

A study by the American Academy Of Neurology suggests that two women with Parkinson's disease developed alopecia from treatment containing dopamine agonists, pramipexole. Further, the study suggests that discontinuing the treatment improved hair fall [8]. Thus correlating high dopamine levels with potential hair loss. 

Hair loss while taking Modafinil may not directly stem from Modafinil but from its relationship with Narcolepsy. Lloyd E. King Jr., in a case report entitled A Potential Association Between Alopecia Areata and Narcolepsy, suggests a possible immunological connection between Narcolepsy and hair loss. 

Modafinil Sexual Side Effects

Compulsive sexual behavior or hypersexuality from taking Modafinil is not commonly reported. Research Sahoo Swapnajeet in a 2016 study suggests that overuse of Modafinil can cause hypersexuality. 

A scientific case report by Süheyla Doğan Bulut et al. entitled Hypersexuality after Modafinil Treatment shows that the sex drive of a female patient skyrocketed after taking Modafinil. 

 

What Are The Long-Term Side Effects Of Modafinil?

Long-term use of Modafinil can result in physical and psychological dependency. 

Modafinil Abuse And Dependency Potency

Modafinil is a Schedule IV controlled substance with a low risk of abuse and dependency. Off-label use of Modafinil as a cognitive enhancer by students and professionals increases the risk of abuse. 

The 2018 National Survey on Drug Abuse reports that about 5.1 million Americans misuse prescription medications such as Modafinil. 

The following 5 symptoms can help identify Modafinil dependence-

1. Lying about taking Modafinil tablets or its brand drugs. 

2. Frequently trying to get modafinil prescriptions. 

3. Constantly worrying about getting the next dose. 

4. Feeling uneasy or uncomfortable when not taking the medication or experiencing withdrawal symptoms. 

5. Experiencing disconnection from friends and family. 

Modafinil abuse or dependency may also result in side effects, including Dizziness, Blisters, Nausea, Muscle tightness, Headache, dry mouth, Chest pain, and an irregular heartbeat. 

Insomnia From Prolonged Modafinil Intake 

Prolonged use of Modafinil damages sleep architecture, causing insomnia, states a report by the website “The Guardian.”

Dr. Peter Morgan from Yale University says that taking Modafinil for the long term develops deficits in slow-wave sleep, similar to cocaine users. However using the stimulant forces the body to be awake longer than needed, thus disrupting its ability to regulate the sleep cycle. 

So, how does Modafinil cause insomnia?

• It regulates sleep by altering how the central nervous system utilizes and secretes neurotransmitters and brain chemicals such as dopamine, which, if present in high amounts, can cause insomnia. 

• It also inhibits gamma-aminobutyric acid, which is responsible for regulating sleepiness.

• Modafinil further promotes the secretion of glutamate, histamine, and norepinephrine, which excites the sympathetic nervous system and promotes wakefulness. 

How Long Does Modafinil Keep You Awake?

Modafinil can keep you awake and alert for 12 to 15 hours, depending on the dosage and the metabolic activity of the individual. 

Modafinil Withdrawal 

Withdrawal signs are often reported in people who suddenly discontinue the intake of Modafinil after using it for a long period of time. 

Five commonly reported symptoms of Modafinil withdrawal are sleepiness or lethargy, low mood, anxiety, insomnia, and headache, as shown below. 

 

Modafinil drug Interaction 

Co-administration of Modafinil with other medications causes drug interaction, resulting in unwanted side effects. This is because Modafinil simultaneously induces and decreases several metabolic enzymes essential in medication processing and metabolism. It may thus affect the metabolic activity of the other medication taken with Modafinil. 

The website Drugs enlists 459 known medications that may interact with Modafinil. 

• Major drug interaction- with 70 medications. 

• Moderate drug interaction- with 210 medicines. 

• Minor drug interaction- 179 known medicines. 

Of the 459 listed drug interactions, a few common medications that should not be co-administered with Modafinil include Itraconazole Or Ketoconazole, Carisoprodol, Tramadol, Ganaxolone, Hydrocodone, Lovastatin, Warfarin, Methadone, Sildenafil, Oxycodone, Quinine, and Rifampin.

Health Risks Associated With Modafinil And Alcohol Interaction

Modafinil and alcohol have opposite effects on the brain; modafinil decreases GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid) secretion and increases glutamate production, whereas alcohol increases the activity of GABA neurotransmitters and decreases the activity of glutamate. 

Mixing Modafinil with alcohol is not recommended and results in blackouts, dizziness, anxiety, nausea, intestinal discomfort, nervousness, diarrhea, and drowsiness. Such interaction may also increase alcohol tolerance and cause hypersensitivity reactions resulting in a rash. 

 

Modafinil Crash

The term "Modafinil crash" describes the potential negative effects that some people may experience after the effects of Modafinil wear off. 

The concept of a "Modafinil crash" is not an official medical term, but it generally refers to a sudden and noticeable decrease in the positive effects of the medication.

One key cause of the Modafinil crash is its effects on certain neurotransmitters in the brain. As Modafinil helps in the secretion of dopamine and norepinephrine, when these neurotransmitter levels return to their baseline after the medication wears off, some people might experience temporary changes in mood and energy levels. 

Modafinil crash is characterized by decreased alertness, fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and headache. 

 

Is Modafinil Dangerous- A Note On Its Fetal Health Risks

Modafinil is not dangerous; in fact, its use is considered safe with a low risk of side effects. 

All the research papers on Modafinil's ability to boost cognition from January 1990 to December 2014 were evaluated and studied by Dr. Anna-Katharine Brem and Dr. Ruairidh Battleday from Harvard Medical School and the University of Oxford [2]. 

About 70% of the studies that reviewed the effects and side effects of Modafinil showed very few reports of any associated health risk. 

Professor Guy Goodwin, President of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ECNP), states, "Modafinil well deserves the title of the first well-validated pharmaceutical Nootropic agent." In other words, he states that Modafinil is the first smart drug that can genuinely help lower health risks [9]. 

 

 

The Right Way To Stop Modafinil To Avoid Modafinil Dangers

A physician recommends tapering off Modafinil before completely stopping its intake to avoid withdrawal symptoms. 

Tapering off is the process of reducing the Modafinil dose in increments, allowing two to six weeks between dosage reductions. 

Should One Overdose On Modafinil For Better Results? 

Overdosing on Modafinil increases the risk of experiencing side effects and may result in restlessness, confusion, disorientation, agitation, hallucinations, insomnia, and excitation. It also results in digestive discomfort, including diarrhea and nausea. 

 

Tips To Manage Modafinil Adverse Effects

Now that we know the common Modafinil adverse effects let us explore the potential ways to manage or prevent them. 

Dry Mouth And Dehydration 

• Staying hydrated will also help reduce the symptoms of dry mouth and Headache associated with Modafinil. 

• Regulate caffeine consumption as it is known to have a diuretic effect, causing the body to pass more urine, thus increasing the risk of experiencing a dry mouth and dehydration. 

Insomnia Due To Modafinil 

• Prevent insomnia by taking the medication in the morning, preferably by 10 a.m. 

• It is best for beginners to space out their Modafinil dosage throughout the week. Taking it one to three times a week is advisable. 

Modafinil Nausea Relief

The clinical trials conducted by the FDA report Nausea as a common side effect. It is a feeling where a person has an urge to vomit. 

A few medically recommended tips to manage Modafinil Nausea are listed below. 

• Eating a small and light meal before administering Modafinil dosage. 

• Do not exercise right after eating. 

• Avoid heavy or greasy fried food before or after taking Modafinil. 

• Having cold beverages may help. 

Lowering Cardiovascular Side Effects Of Modafinil 

• Regular monitoring of the patient's blood pressure and heart rate on Modafinil or Modalert is recommended. 

• It is important to inform your physician about any previous heart-related problem before starting the treatment regimen. 

Allergic Reaction

• Get an allergy test done for the compounds present in the formulation of the medication. 

• Serious skin rash, including SJS and erythema multiforme major (skin lesions), may be observed in pediatric patients taking Modafinil dosage. Thus, its use should be monitored in people below 17 years. 

Managing Other General Adverse Effects 

• Taking a proper dosage (Modalert 200 mg) helps avoid health risks associated with overdosing. 

• Any changes in mood or thoughts while taking Modafinil should be consulted with your doctor. 

• Elderly patients must be given a lower Modalert dosage with regular health monitoring. 

• The risk of Modafinil side effects in patients with hepatic impairment can be lowered by reducing the dose to half.