Modafinil Vs Vyvanse- Comparison Of Uses, Health Risks, And Combined Effects

 

Vyvanse vs Modafinil- This is one of the common comparisons both by Nootropic enthusiasts and beginners looking forward to trying them. 

Even though both Modafinil and Vyvanse have quite a few similarities, however, they also have notable differences that one should be aware of before starting the treatment regimen. 

In this comparative blog, we meticulously dive into the similarities and differences between the two stimulants and if it is safe to take Modafinil with Vyvanse. 

 

Modafinil And Vyvanse- An Overview Of The Central Nervous System Stimulants

Modafinil is a psychostimulant with cognitive and with vigilance-promoting properties. It is approved by the FDA to treat residual sleepiness in patients with Narcolepsy, sleep apnea, and Shift work sleep disorder. 

Anna-Katharine Brem, the coauthor of the Harvard-Oxford study, states that clinical research shows that "Modafinil has vanishingly few side effects" if administered in a controlled environment. After the publication of the study, it was concluded as the world's first safe, smart drug by many media reports helping it gain its current safety status [1].

Vyvanse is a prodrug of dextroamphetamine, a psychomotor stimulant that is approved by the FDA for the treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Its medical use was approved by the FDA in the year 2008 and is a relatively new treatment option. 

 

Similarities Between Vyvanse And Modafinil 

Modafinil and Vyvanse, being a brain stimulant, have numerous similarities. Some of the notable factors that make the alike are mentioned below. 

• Both medications are category C pregnancy drugs. Thus its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding must be done under the supervision of a doctor. 

• They both act on the central nervous system to produce their effects. 

• The clinical use of both Modafinil and Vyvanse is approved by the FDA. 

Apart from these, both these stimulants have a few off-label uses that we will discuss in the sections below. 

 

Vyvanse Vs Modafinil- Differences 

There are numerous notable differences between Vyvanse and Modafinil that should be taken into consideration to make an informed choice. Some of the notable differences between the two are mentioned below. 

Generic and Brand Name 

The generic name of Vyvanse is Lisdexamfetamine; however, a lower-cost generic tablet is not retailed. 

Modafinil is available in numerous brand names, such as Modalert, Modvigil, and Provigil. In comparison, Lisdexamfetamine is marked under the brand names Vyvanse, Elvanse, and Tyvense. 

Manufacturer

Modafinil is manufactured and marketed by Cephalon Inc. However, its brand drug, such as Modalert, is manufactured by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd, India. In comparison, Vyvanse is manufactured by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, U.S.A.

Drug Class 

Both Modafinil and Vyvanse belong to the stimulant drug class, but Vyvanse is classified as Amphetamine (a group of medications that belongs to central nervous system stimulants). 

Structural Differences Between Modafinil And Vyvanse 

Modafinil is a dimethylsulfoxide that has one phenyl groups and one carbamoyl (aminocarbonyl) group attached to one methyl group [2].  

On the other hand, the molecular formula of Lisdexamfetamine is  C15H25N3O.

Chemically, it is composed of L-lysine amino acid attached to dextroamphetamine [3]. 

Composition Or List Of Ingredients 

The active compound of Vyvanse is lisdexamfetamine dimesylate. 

It has the following inactive compounds croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, and microcrystalline cellulose. The capsule of the medication is composed of titanium dioxide, gelatin, and one or more of  FD&C Red #40, D&C Red #28, FC&C Blue #1, and D&C Yellow #10 [4]. 

On the other hand, Modafinil itself being the active compound, it contains inactive compounds such as croscarmellose sodium, lactose monohydrate, pregelatinized starch, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, and magnesium stearate [5].

Mechanism Of Action Of Lisdexamfetamine And Modafinil 

Vyvanse works by blocking the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the central nervous system. Both these neurotransmitter contributes to helping increase focus, motivation, alertness, effort, and sustaining thoughts. 

Modafinil works by inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine and increasing its level in the body. It also has the potency to increase histamine (HA), norepinephrine (NE), serotonin (5-HT), and orexin levels in the brain. 

A study by Wilsor et al. in 2001 suggests that wakefulness and maintenance of vigilance by Modafinil is possible even in the absence of orexin [6]. 

 

 

Drug Schedule 

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies Modafinil as a Schedule IV controlled substance, indicating it has a lower risk of abuse and dependency. 

On the other hand, Vyvanse is a Schedule II controlled medication suggesting it has a potentially higher risk of abuse than Modafinil. 

Age Restrictions

The use of Modafinil is advisable strictly for individuals above 17 years, whereas is prescribed to children above 6 years. 

 

Dosage and Administration

Vyvanse is available in dosing options from 10 mg to 70 mg, but the standard recommended dose is 30 mg. However, the Vyvanse dosage may be adjusted in increments of 10 or 20 mg at an interval of 7 days to reach a maximum dose of 70 mg once daily. 

 

 

Modafinil Dosage Guidelines 

In comparison, the standard dose of Modafinil for all the conditions treated by the Nootropic is 200 mg. It is, however, available in the strengths of 100 and 200 mg. 

Modafinil And Vyvanse Administration 

Both Vyvanse and Modafinil should be taken once in the morning, as their eugeroic effects may affect the normal sleep cycle of the individual, causing insomnia. However, people taking Modafinil to treat shift work sleep disorder should take the dose 30 to 60 minutes before working. 

These are oral tablets and should be taken by mouth, without or without a meal. Avoid the consumption of both Modafinil and Vyvanse with alcohol. 

However, a few additional administration guidelines for Vyvanse include-

• The use of the stimulant without the consultation of a physician by people with a history of abuse is not recommended. 

• The chewable tablets of Vyvanse should not be directly swallowed.

• The capsules of the medication should be crushed. However, to make consumption easier, one can break the capsule to dissolve the content in the water. 

 

Medical Uses And Off-label Applications Of Vyvanse And Modafinil 

Modafinil and Vyvanse, both being CNS stimulants, have similar clinical applications. Over the years, they have been recognized for numerous off-label benefits. The notable medical uses of both Vyvanse and Modafinil are listed below. 

Uses Of Vyvanse 

The prescription use of Vyvanse includes treating  Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and moderate to severe binge eating disorder (B.E.D.). 

The off-label use of Lisdexamfetamine includes- 

• Depression Management- In the French Pharmacovigilance database, 43% of cases of Vyvanse off-label use were reported. In adults, Vyvanse was prescribed for depression [11]. 

• Improving Physical Performance- The use of Vyvanse by athletes can help improve their performance and alertness. In healthy individuals, it is reported to improve muscle strength and delays the onset of fatigue, acceleration, and reaction time. 

Lisdexamfetamine also enhances endurance by increasing the secretion of dopamine in the central nervous system. 

• For Cognitive enhancement- The use of amphetamine, such as Vyvanse, can improve the cognitive functioning of a person, including long-term episodic memory, working memory, and attention span. 

A 2014 study also suggests that it improves the ability to recall information better. 

Uses Of Modafinil 

Modafinil, on the other hand, is prescribed for treating Excessive Daytime sleepiness associated with Narcolepsy, shift work sleep disorder, and Obstructive sleep apnea. 

Studies further suggest that the use of Modafinil is also effective for treating EDS associated with closed-head brain injury (dementia due to head trauma), depression, and psychosis [9]. 

The off-label use of Modafinil for cognitive enhancements has driven individuals from diverse professional backgrounds to explore its potential benefits. 

• Use Of Modafinil By Students- It is recently seen that about 20% of students from most Ivy League college (Harvard University, Princeton University, Cornell University, Yale University) uses Nootropics to enhance their performance [1]. 

According to the website, The Guardian, a survey comprising 2000 students from 41 universities suggest that one in every 5 student uses Modafinil for studying [8]. 

• Arm Forces- The U.S. military, along with the  Indian air force pilots, are also using Modafinil while combating missions [1].

• Mood Disorder- Modafinil can be taken in conjugation with other medication for treating bipolar depression. 

• For Fatigue- The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) suggests that the use of Modafinil can help in managing fatigue associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). It is also supported by a 2002 study by Udo A Zifko et al. that suggests that Modafinil is well tolerated and can significantly improve sleepiness and fatigue in patients with Multiple Sclerosis [10]. 

Psychiatrists or Neurologists may also prescribe Modafinil 200 mg dosage to people with multiple sclerosis, depression, and Parkinson's disease [8].

 

Comparative Analysis Of Using Modafinil And Vyvanse For ADHD

ADHD (Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder of childhood. Such people often face trouble focusing with shorter attention spans. 

Symptoms of ADHD include-

• Forgetting or losing things frequently.

• Talking too much. 

• Face difficulty getting along with other people. 

• Excessive daydreaming. 

• Find it difficult to resist temptation. 

• Often makes careless mistakes. 

Lisdexamfetamine For ADHD

The use of Vyvanse for ADHD is a prescription use of this stimulant, whereas, Modafinil is used as an off-label therapeutic option. 

A few remarkable pieces of scientific literature mentioned here on the use of Vyvanse for ADHD are referred from the official website of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, the manufacturer of the medication, to ensure the information presented here is based on reputable and authoritative sources [11].  

For How Long Did Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) Help Improve Attention In Adults?

 

 

• Study Population- 142 adults aged 18-55 years with ADHD.

• Study groups- On the 5th week, half of the people continued to take Vyvanse, while the other half started to take a placebo (also known as sugar pills). 

The study suggests that the use of Vyvanse helps in improving attention span in people with ADHD throughout the day (even at 14 hours after administration) [11]. 

 

 

How Did Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate) Help Control ADHD Symptoms In Adults?

• Study population- 420 adult subjects aged 18-55 years with ADHD

• Study groups- Patients with ADHD were divided into 4 groups, receiving Vyvanse 30 mg, 50 mg, 70 mg, or sugar pill (Placebo).

The study concluded that individuals who were treated with Vyvanse showed twice the improvement in the signs of ADHD than placebo [11]. 

 

 

Vyvanse Use For Maintenance 

Once the symptoms of ADHD have been improved, the use of Vyvanse for maintenance of the condition has been approved by the FDA, which is also highlighted in the study below. 

• Study population- 123 Individuals with ADHD between the age of 18 to 55 years. 

• The Study- In the first part of the study, the patients were recommended to take Vyvanse pills, whereas, in the second part of the study, half of the individuals continued to take Vyvanse while the other half switched to a placebo.  

• Length of the Study- The first part of the study was 3 weeks long, while the second part was 6 weeks long. 

The study showcased that about 91% of individuals with ADHD taking  Vyvanse were able to maintain the improvement, while only 25% were able to maintain the improvement with a placebo [11]. 

 

Modafinil Use For ADHD

The use of Modafinil for ADHD is an off-label use of the Nootropic advisable for individuals above the age of 18. 

In clinical trials, the use of Modafinil was seen to be more effective in treating ADHD in children of age 6 years and above. It also was noted to improve cognitive and executive functioning in children with ADHD. Such patients also report improvement in focus from taking Modafinil dosage [12]. 

Another similar study on the use of Modafinil for ADHD demonstrates consistent improvement compared to Placebo. The study also highlights the potentail advantages of using Modafinil over current treatment options-

• It is well tolerated.

• Mild to moderate side effects. 

• Needs to be administered once. 

• It has fewer reinforcing properties than traditional stimulants [13]. 

 

As both stimulants are effective in improving attention span, so,

Which among Vyvanse and Modafinil is a better treatment option for ADHD? 

A study published by Matej Stuhec from the Journal of Annals of Pharmacotherapy evaluates the efficacy of a few compounds, including Modafinil and Lisdexamfetamine, for treating ADHD in adults. The study concludes that of all the compounds examined, Vyvanse had the most promising potential for treating adults with ADHD than Modafinil [15]. 

So, If we have to choose one stimulant from the two for solely treating ADHD symptoms, it will undoubtedly be Vyvanse. 

 

Effectiveness and Duration of Action

The onset of action of Vyvanse is 2 hours from the time of intake, whereas it takes 30 minutes for Modafinil or its brand drug, Modalert, to start acting. 

On the other hand, the effects of both Modafinil and Vyvanse last for 12 to 14 hours. 

 

Modafinil Vs Vyvanse- Which Is More Affordable 

The cost of Vyvanse, based on the price list by the website Single Care is $15 per pill ($460.55 for 30 pills of Vyvanse 70 mg) [16]. 

On the contrary, Modalert, the brand drug of Modafinil, is priced at $1.25 per pill ($375 for 300 pills of Modalert 200 mg) at Healthnaturo. 

Healthnaturo is a reliable online store to buy Modalert online that offers genuine medications with assured discounts. Get free shipping with additional benefits on reorder. 

 

Modafinil And Vyvanse Combination- Is It Safe? 

Taking modafinil with Vyvanse may result in mild drug interaction. Individuals taking 200 mg of Modafinil with 10 mg of Vyvanse exhibit a delay in the absorption rate of Modafinil by about 1 hour [17]. 

 

Switching From Vyvanse To Modafinil

Switching from Vyvanse, which is prescribed primarily for ADHD, to Modafinil, a prescription drug for a sleep disorder, is a significant change as they have different mechanisms of action and purposes. 

A switch from Vyvanse to Modafinil must be done under the supervision of a physician. However, if you are planning to switch from Vyvanse to Modafinil, here are a few guidelines to follow. 

• Proper medical evaluation- It is important for your doctor to properly assess your medical condition, health risks, and your response to Vyvanse before considering the switch to Modafinil.

• Tapering off Vyvanse- If your doctor believes switching to Modafinil is appropriate, they will most likely advise you to first taper off Vyvanse by gradually lowering its dosage. As abrupt discontinuation of Vyvanse may cause withdrawal symptoms. 

• Starting Modafinil dosage- Once you have tapered off Vyvanse, you will be prescribed Modafinil 200 mg dosage. It is advisable to start with a lower dosage to monitor your response to the medication and further adjust it if needed. 

Why Do People Switch From Vyvanse To Modafinil? 

Some conditions or situations where a doctor might consider switching a patient from Vyvanse to Modafinil are mentioned below. 

• Individuals stop responding to Vynvase, or the medication becomes less effective with prolonged use. 

• Developing health conditions that can make the use of Vyvanse risky. 

• If the person is suffering from excessive daytime sleepiness and currently taking Vyvanse for any reason, the doctor may switch them to Modafinil. 

• In case the patient is willing to try a different treatment option and expresses the wish to try Modafinil. 

Health Risks Associated With Switching Medications 

Drug switching can affect the overall cost of care as there might be potentail differences between the prices of the medication, toxicity level, prevalence of side effects, and effectiveness of the treatment. 

In most cases, when a switch is made under the supervision and recommendation of a physician, it is because your physician thinks that is the best for you. 

 

Legality And Regulations

The therapeutic goods regulations vary depending on the jurisdiction. In some countries, such as the United States, a compound is regulated at a national level, whereas in other jurisdictions, they are regulated at a state level. 

The therapeutic goods regulation is designed to protect the safety and health of the population and is aimed to ensure the efficacy, safety, and quality of the compounds which are covered under them. 

Modafinil Legality 

• Australia- S4 prescription drug. 

• Canada- Available only with a valid prescription. 

• USA- Schedule IV prescription medicine.

• UK- POM (prescription only).

Vyvanse Legality

• Australia- S8controlled drug. 

• Canada- Schedule I.

• Germany- A special prescription form is required (Anlage III).

• USA- Schedule II prescription medicine.

• UK- Class B.

 

Warnings And Precautionary Measures For Modafinil And Vyvanse

While using Modafinil and Vyvanse, it is essential to follow a few preventive measures that will help in minimizing the risk of side effects. 

Modafinil Warnings 

• Modafinil can cause palpitation and thus require frequent monitoring. 

• It can lower the effectiveness of birth control pills. Thus, it is essential to consult a doctor for an alternative plan. 

• Modafinil, along with its brand medications, such as Modalert, can cause skin allergies causing peeling, blisters, rash, acne, ulcers, Or lesions. 

• This medication can cause drowsiness and dizziness, thus making it unsafe to use heavy machinery and drive. 

• The use of Modafinil with alcohol is not advisable. 

• If you are administering a large dose of Modafinil for a prolonged time, it is advisable not to discontinue the medication abruptly. 

• It is not advisable to take other brain stimulants or Nootropics with Modafinil dosage. 

• Before taking Modafinil tablets, make sure you inform your doctor if you are suffering from a kidney disorder, angina (chest pain), liver disorder or Cirrhosis, history of drug addiction, or mental illness. 

Vyvanse Warnings

• Before taking Vyvanse dosage, make sure that you are not allergic to the compounds in its formulation. 

• Intake of alcohol or cannabis with Vyvanse is not advisable.

• Long-term use of Vyvanse can affect the growth of children. 

• The use of heavy machinery or driving is not recommended with Vyvanse, as it can result in drowsiness. 

• The intake of lisdexamfetamine is not recommended to people who have administered MAO inhibitor (selegiline,  isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, or rasagiline) in the past 14 days. 

• To prevent suffering from stroke or sudden heart attack, ensure to inform your doctor if you have a history of high blood pressure and congenital heart disease. 

• Before taking this medication, inform your physician if you or anyone in your family suffer from mental illness (bipolar disorder, depression, suicidal thoughts, and psychosis), kidney disorder, addiction, and blood circulation disorder. 

 

Side Effects Of Vyvanse And Modafinil

Improper dosing and administration, along with previous health conditions, may increase the risk of side effects. The common adverse effects of Modafinil and Vyvanse are listed below. 

Vyvanse Side Effects 

The FDA database suggests the following side effects of taking Vyvanse [3,4]. These health risks are reported in the controlled trials of Vyvasne. 

 

Adverse Reactions Reported by Children (Ages 6 to 12 Years) with ADHD 

Decreased Appetite (39%), Insomnia (23%), Irritability, Somnolence, Abdominal Pain Upper, Dry Mouth, Vomiting, Rash, Nausea, Dizziness, Pyrexia, and affects lability. 

 

Adverse Reactions Reported by Adolescents (Ages 13 to 17 Years)

Decreased Appetite (34%), Dry Mouth, weight loss, and insomnia, 

 

Adverse Reactions Reported in Adults

Decreased Appetite in 27% of users, palpitation, anxiety, nausea, jitteriness, weight loss, diarrhea, agitation, high blood pressure, restlessness, Dyspnea, Hyperhidrosis, and Anorexia. 

 

Weight Loss And Slowing Growth Rate In Pediatric Patients With ADHD

Weight loss is one of the most prevalent adverse effects of Vyvanse and was more frequently noticed in people taking a higher dose of the medication. It is also associated with slowing down the growth rate in pediatric patients. Thus, it is essential to closely monitor the weight and height of such patients. 

Modafinil Side Effects 

The clinical trials of Modafinil suggest the following adverse effects. 

Somnolence, Agitation, Hypertension, Back Pain, Confusion, Sweating, Constipation, Dry Mouth, Dyskinesia, Vasodilatation, Vertigo, Flatulence, Tremors, Abnormal Vision, Chills, and Mouth Ulceration. 

Modafinil can cause suppression of appetite, thus resulting in weight loss. However, it is not approved for weight management. 

 

Dose-Dependent Adverse Reactions Of Modafinil

Modafinil may cause anxiety and headache depending on the dosage taken. 

 

Adverse Reactions Resulting in Discontinuation of Treatment 

Chest pain, nausea, nervousness, insomnia, and dizziness. 

 

Possible Drug Interaction

When two or more medications are taken together, it can alter the metabolism, absorption, and potency of the drug leading to drug interaction. Such interactions also potentially increase the risk of side effects. 

Modafinil Drug Interaction 

Modafinil can interact with 459 known medications.

• 70 major drug interactions.

• 210 moderate interaction.

• 179 minor interactions. 

Some of the medications that should not be taken with Modafinil tablets are Atogepant, Pirtobrutinib, Belzutifan, Ranolazine, Voclosporin, Oxycodone, Ketoconazole, Sonidegib, Tenofovir, Nafcillin, And Methadone. 

Vyvanse Drug Interaction

Taking Vyvanse with other medications can cause interaction, thus affecting the pH of the urine and resulting in an alteration of blood levels of Amphetamine and its excretion. 

Vyvanse can interact with a total of 340 medicines. Of which-

• 95 is major interaction.

• 235 drug interactions are moderate. 

• 10 minor drug interactions. 

The medications that should not be co-administered with Modafinil are Bupropion, Hydroxychloroquine, Norfloxacin, Levoketoconazole, Methadone, Papaverine, Sotalol, Tapentadol, And Ziprasidone. 

It is, however, essential to note that this is not the complete list of all the possible drug interactions of Vyvanse or Modafinil. So, If you are undergoing any other treatment, it is important to consult a doctor before administering Modafinil or Vyvanse. 

 

Modafinil Vs Vyvanse- Our Final Thoughts 

Modafinil and Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine) are both FDA-approved prescription drugs with impeccable potency and user benefit. However, Modafinil is preferable if you are trying to manage excessive daytime sleepiness, whereas Vyvanse is the drug of choice for treating ADHD. 

A sum up of everything that we have covered in the blog is listed below. 

 

 

If you are looking for an affordable yet effective treatment option for Excessive daytime sleepiness, better cognition, mood disorder, and fatigue, Modafinil is the choice for you. In contrast, people with ADHD must choose Vyvanse over Modafinil. 

It is important to note that the conclusion drawn by the editorial team is based on the finding in this blog. Each individual interacts differently with medication, and thus, your physician may have an option different from ours. So, encourage all our readers to consult a doctor before taking either Modafinil or Lisdexamfetamine.