A pharmacist discusses the similarities and differences between these medications used for narcolepsy.
Nuvigil (armodafinil) and Provigil (modafinil) are prescription medications.
They belong to a drug class known as stimulants.
PIKSEL / Getty Images
PIKSEL / Getty Images
What Is Modafinil?
Provigil (modafinil) is a stimulant drug, which means it activates the nervous system.
Provigil was approved by U.S. the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1998.
So, whether this medication would be safe or effective for people younger than 18 is unknown.
Modafinilcomes as an oral tablet with two strengths: 100 milligrams (mg) and 200 mg.
Examples of off-label uses for modafinil include the following:
What Is Armodafinil?
Nuvigil (armodafinil) is very similar to modafinil.
Armodafinil is utilized for many of the same off-label purposes as modafinil.
Armodafinil and modafinil are very similar medications.
Armodafinil was developed by making a slight change to the formulation of modafinil.
On a milligram-per-milligram basis, thestimulant effectof modafinil wears off more quickly than armodafinil.
This is a critical consideration for treating shift-work sleep disorder.
This increases the risk of accidents if the individual becomes excessively sleepy while commuting home.
This may affect how the medication is dispensed from the pharmacy and how your prescriber can order it.
verify to confirm these requirements with your pharmacist before picking up your medication.
Is Armodafinil or Modafinil Safer?
Given their similarity, both medications are associated with the same side effects discussed below.
One review of multiple studies found no significant safety or side effect differences between the two drugs.
Side Effects
Armodafinil and modafinil can cause similar side effects.
If your symptoms seem severe, call 911 or go to a hospital emergency department right away.
Precautions
Armodafinil and modafinil have the same contraindications and precautions, as summarized in the table below.
Armodafinil and modafinil work the same way, and their potential drug interactions are also the same.
The lists below are not complete but highlight some interactions to be aware of while taking armodafinil or modafinil.
To help prevent pregnancy, ask your provider about switching to a different contraceptive.
Nutrition Considerations
There are no foods known to interact with armodafinil or modafinil.
Either drug may be taken with or without food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Modafinil and armodafinil should not be taken together.
They are very similar medications, so combining them isnt going to provide much additional benefit.
However, taking them together could increase the risk of severe side effects, such as heart problems.
Armodafinil is a newer, slightly altered version of modafinil.
Armodafinil and modafinil share some similarities with other stimulants such asConcerta (methylphenidate)andAdderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine).
Both drugs are classified as Schedule IV (four) controlled substances.
However, studies have not shown any withdrawal symptoms when stopping either of these drugs.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Provigil (modafinil) label.
2011, 514351. doi: 10.1155/2011/514351.
2016;47(5):1420-8. doi: 10.1183/13993003.01509-2015.
