Modafinil Vs. Adderall comparative study indicates that Modafinil (Modalert) is a much safer option with a lower risk of side effects and abuse. It is an affordable option for brain stimulants that can be taken once a day.
Both Adderall and Modafinil help improve cognition and excessive daytime sleepiness and promote weight loss with numerous other off-label benefits.
Modafinil vs Adderall- A comparison often sought by people wishing to get better brain activity and improve excessive daytime sleepiness.
We live in a competitive world and always want to be the best. To do our work correctly, we need to stay active. There are lots of ways available nowadays that can help us to stay active. Modafinil and Adderall are two of the most effective ways to stay active.
Both Adderall and Modafinil, which is also available under the brand name Modalert, are known as activeness enhancers. So, to help you choose the right Nootropic, this comparative study on Adderall vs Modafinil aims to evaluate the similarities and differences between the two.
Modafinil Vs Adderall: An Overview
Modalert- It is a Modafinil brand that is approved by the FDA for treating excessive daytime sleepiness. Modafinil is one of the most popular Nootropics in the pharmaceutical world and is considered the safest option according to researchers at Oxford and Cambridge Universities. It also has cognition-enhancing effects, which are considered its off-label benefit.
Adderall- Adderall is a brand version of Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine, a stimulant. Its medical use was approved in the year 2002 and is very effective in enhancing brain activity and excessive sleepiness [1].
|
Characteristics |
Modafinil |
Adderall |
|---|---|---|
|
Generic name |
Modafinil |
Dextroamphetamine |
|
Brand Name |
Modalert |
Adderall |
|
Manufacturer |
Sun Pharmaceutical |
Duramed Pharmaceutical |
|
FDA approval |
Yes, 1998. |
Yes, 2002 |
|
Legal status |
|
|
|
Class of drug |
CNS stimulant |
CNS stimulant |
|
Structural differences [2,3] |
|
|
|
Composition |
Active Compound- Modafinil Inactive Compound- Microcrystalline Cellulose, Povidone (K-30), Magnesium Stearate, Lactose Monohydrate, Pregelatinized Starch, and Croscarmellose Sodium. |
Active Ingredient: dextroamphetamine saccharate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, amphetamine aspartate, and amphetamine sulfate. Inactive Ingredients: Corn starch, colloidal silicon dioxide, saccharin sodium, magnesium stearate, compressible sugar, and microcrystalline cellulose. |
Adderall Vs Modafinil: How Do They Differ?
A few distinct differences between the two Nootropics that set them apart are listed below to help people choose the right Nootropic.
|
Characteristics |
Modafinil (Modalert) |
Adderall |
|---|---|---|
|
Schedule |
Schedule II |
|
|
Dependence Liability |
Relatively low |
Moderate |
|
Addiction Liability |
Very low to low |
Moderate |
|
Risk of Withdrawal |
Low |
Sudden discontinuation of the medication can produce withdrawal symptoms. |
|
Pregnancy category |
AU: D USA: C |
Category C |
|
Price |
The cost of Modalert 200mg is $ 1.25 per pill at Health Naturo. This price may vary based on the number of pills and the pharmacy. |
The Adderall price is $294 at CVS and may also vary depending on the pharmacy [6]. |
|
Coverage by Insurance |
Yes |
Yes |
How Do Modafinil and Adderall Work?
The working mechanism of Adderall and Modafinil indicates how these Nootropics work and help improve people's cognition and sleep issues.
|
The Working mechanism of Modafinil |
The Working mechanism of Adderall |
|---|---|
|
Modafinil is known for acting as a dopamine reuptake inhibitor. By inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine, it indirectly activates the release of orexin neuropeptides and histamine from the lateral hypothalamus and tuberomammillary nucleus. In simple words, this Nootropic enhances our active energy by stimulating neurons in the brain [2]. |
It is a combination of two main ingredients, amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, known as central nervous system stimulants. It works as a natural neurotransmitter, secreting dopamine, adrenaline, and norepinephrine. Thus improving the activeness and alertness in people [4]. |
|
The onset of action of Modafinil |
Onset of action of Adderall |
|
30 minutes. |
The onset of action: 30 minutes. |
|
The half-life of Modafinil |
Half-life of Adderall |
|
12 to 15 hours [5]. |
The half-lives of amphetamine enantiomers differ and vary depending on the urine pH. At normal pH, the half-lives of dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine are 9 to 11 hours and 11 to 14 hours, respectively. Highly acidic urine can reduce the half-lives to 7 hours, whereas highly alkaline urine will increase the half-lives to 34 hours [2]. |
Modafinil Vs Adderall: Uses And Benefits
The FDA primarily approves Modafinil and Adderall for treating excessive daytime sleepiness; however, there are numerous other off-label benefits of these Nootropics. A Modafinil vs Adderall comparison based on their medical uses is mentioned below to help you better understand the two brain stimulants.
Modafinil vs Adderall ADHD
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder of childhood that often lasts into adulthood. Modafinil Nootropic is often used off-label to improve the symptoms of ADHD in adults 18 years of age and older [7]. A clinical study further establishes the effectiveness of Modalert for patients with ADHD.
“A film-coated formulation of Modafinil in children and adolescents with ADHD demonstrated improvements in its symptoms compared with placebo. Mean reductions in symptom ratings ranged from 15.0 to 19.7 in Modalert users [8]”.
It showed improvements in signs of ADHD, such as-
- Acting without thinking.
- Unable to concentrate.
- Lack of attention.
- Constant fidgeting.
Adderall is considered the first treatment option for ADHD [9]. It effectively improves the concentration and focus of people with ADHD [10]. Adderall also effectively reduces impulsive behavior and hyperactivity in such patients [11].
Modafinil Vs Adderall Studying
Experts state that Adderall is not effective in helping students study. In a study published in the journal Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology, there is no additional improvement in executive function in people taking Adderall without ADHD [12].
“Adderall’s ability to boost focus can be tempting to people without ADHD, but misusing the stimulant for studying can be risky, addictive and dangerous [13].”
Modalert (Modafinil) for studying is often one of the most preferred Nootropics due to its safety profile. The use of Modafinil can help students to get better grades by-
- Allowing them to study for 12 hours without a drop in their energy, focus, and concentration [14].
- It helps students to complete their projects and papers faster by increasing their writing speed.
"Modafinil can increase the writing efficacy by 40%" [14].
- The Nootropics helps students make the most of class by assisting them to stay awake and concentrate better.
Modafinil Vs Adderall Weight Loss
Both Adderall and Modafinil are known to cause weight loss. Adderall for weight loss works by decreasing the appetite and increasing the metabolic activity of the user. It causes them to eat less and burn more calories quicker than usual [15].
In 2004, research conducted to examine the correlation between Adderall and Modafinil weight loss in volunteers between the ages of 21 and 35 indicated that both Nootropics decrease total calorie consumption by lowering the appetite.
“Modafinil reduces the amount of food consumed and decreases energy intake without altering the proportion of macronutrients consumed.
Although both Adderall and Modafinil increase heart rate and blood pressure at higher doses, the dose of Modafinil did not significantly increase heart rate [16].”
Several other researchers also indicate the use of Modafinil in the treatment of obesity. In another study conducted on shift workers, 400 mg of Modafinil decreased the daily calorie intake by 38%, thus significantly lowering the perception of hunger [16].
Adderall vs Modafinil for Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder that prevents a person from falling asleep at night. It makes Modalert and Adderall a very sought-after topic among people as both Nootropics help treat Narcolepsy.
Amphetamines, an ingredient of Adderall, have been used as a wakefulness booster since the 1930s. It is a mixture of amphetamines and dextroamphetamine and acts as a wakefulness booster, which can help patients with Narcolepsy.
On the other hand, as a brand of Modafinil, Modalert 200mg can also be effective for Narcolepsy patients. It acts on the brain to help improve activeness and alertness, thus helping manage signs of excessive daytime sleepiness associated with Narcolepsy. Modalert vs. Waklert is a standard Nootropic Comparison for Narcolepsy, indicating Modalert 200mg to be a much potential choice.
Adderall And Modafinil- Dosage And Administration
Modafinil is available in 100 mg and 200 mg; however, Modalert 200mg is the standard dose of the Nootropic. It is an oral medication and should be taken once daily. Whereas Adderall is available in two forms-
- Adderall oral tablet, which is an immediate-release (IR) formulation.
- Adderall XR oral capsule, which is an extended-release (ER) formulation.
It is available in the following strengths-
- Adderall IR: 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg tablets.
- Adderall XR: 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, 30 mg capsules.
While administering the medications, ensure to take the dosage correctly by following the recommendations mentioned below.
- Adderall and Modalert 200 are oral pills and should be taken by mouth.
- Avoid the consumption of alcoholic beverages with the Nootropics.
- Modafinil is not recommended for children; however, Adderall is administered to children up to 3 years (SHOULD BE DONE UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF A DOCTOR).
- Pregnant and lactating women should administer the medication only if their physician advises.
- Elderly people above the age of 65 years are not advised to take the medication as they are more likely to suffer from side effects.
- Adderall can be taken 1 to 3 times a day.
Adderall Vs Modafinil: Side Effects
To avoid the risk of any possible side effects, it is crucial to take the medication as prescribed by your physician. Modafinil is known to cause mild side effects compared to Adderall. Some of the most common side effects of Modafinil and Adderall are listed below. However, it is essential to note that this is not a complete list of all possible side effects.
Modalert Side effects
- After taking the dosage, you may experience Nausea, Headache, dizziness, insomnia, etc. If these last for a long period, take the doctor’s advice. A few people experience Modafinil teeth grinding after the administration of the Nootropic.
- Irregular heartbeat, mood swings, depression, etc., are some serious side effects that are rarely seen.
- Chest pain is a very serious side effect often experienced by people with a history of cardiac disorder and should be reported to the doctor immediately.
- Allergic reactions to this Nootropic are rarely seen. If you experience any, get medical help.
Adderall Side Effect
- Some common side effects are loss of appetite, weight loss, headache, fever, nausea, trouble sleeping, etc. If those are there for long, get medical help.
- It can increase your blood pressure and is not recommended for people with hypertension.
- Some severe side effects include blood flow problems in the fingers and toes, mood swings, uncontrolled movements, etc.
- Take immediate medical help if you are experiencing severe side effects like shortness of breath, fainting, severe headache, seizure, etc.
Switching From Adderall To Modafinil- Is It A Good Idea?
Modafinil inhibits dopamine reuptake, whereas Amphetamine (Adderall) releases dopamine. Many users of Amphetamine have reported being more prone to side effects like hallucinations, heart issues, etc. It makes a person switch from Adderall to a milder version of medicines like Modafinil.
Modafinil creates a sense of stimulation, unlike Amphetamine, which causes overstimulation of the brain. People who switch and order Modalert 200mg after using Adderall should begin with a lower dose. However, before switching from Adderall to Modafinil, it is crucial to seek prior help from a physician.
Modafinil Vs Adderall: User review
Adderall Vs. Modafinil comparison based on its review indicates that both the Nootropic have a similar rating on the website WebMD. Rated on their effectiveness, satisfaction, and ease of use, both Modalert and Adderall have a user rating of 4.0 out of 5 [17,18].
Modafinil Vs Adderall- Our Final Take On The Comparison
Still unable to decide between Adderall and Modafinil, there are a few things to consider.
- For People with ADHD- Adderall is more effective than Modafinil.
- For Excessive Daytime Sleepiness- Both the Nootropics show effective results.
- For people with a history of abuse- Modafinil is a safe option for such individuals.
To make it easier for you to decide, we have penned down the notable merits and demerits of Modalert (Modafinil) and Adderall.
|
Brain Stimulant |
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|---|
|
Modalert |
|
|
|
Adderall |
|
|