While both can improve wakefulness and focus, there are key differences between the two drugs.
Adderall is commonly used to treatattention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)and a sleep disorder callednarcolepsy.
Modafinil is not approved to treat ADHD but is sometimes prescribed off-label for such.
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Other differences between Adderall and modafinil include their recommended doses, age of use, and drug interactions.
Adderall was FDA-approved in 2002.
The active ingredients for each of the three drugs are measured in milligrams (mg).
What Does “Off-Label” Mean?
Off-label prescribing is the use of a drug other than what it was licensed for by the FDA.
Only Adderall IR is approved for the treatment of:
How Do Modafinil and Adderall work?
With that said, the exact way that modafinil promotes wakefulness is not yet fully understood.
Generally, modafinil is thought to work similarly to amphetamine drugs like Adderall and methylphenidate drugs likeRitalin.
Modafinil is believed to increase dopamine levels, which helps improve wakefulness.
It also stimulates mood, thinking, and feelings.
Adderall, on the other hand, is known to increase dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine levels.
This improves attention and focus while decreasing impulsivity and aggression.
Which Is More Effective?
A conditional recommendation means the healthcare provider must use clinical judgment to determine if a drug is appropriate.
While modafinil and Adderall are both approved to treat narcolepsy, only Adderall is FDA-approved to treat ADHD.
Who Should Avoid Modafinil or Adderall?
Modafinil and Adderall are not appropriate for everyone.
Modafinil
Modafinil is available as an oral tablet.
It is available in 100-mg and 200-mg tablets.
It can be taken once daily with or without food.
The recommended dosage of modafinil varies by the condition:
The dosage can be increased to 400 mg daily.
Older adults may need lower doses.
It is typically taken several times a day, with the first dose taken first thing in the morning.
It is usually taken once in the morning with or without food.
Be aware that both drugs carry a potential for abuse and dependence.
(For context, heroin is a Schedule 1 drug).
People who take Adderall should be closely monitored to avoid these complications.
While taking modafinil or Adderall, do not start any new medications without approval from your healthcare provider.
These include drugs like:
Adderall can interact with a wide range of medications.
Modafinil is sometimes prescribed off-label for ADHD.
Studies have shown that Adderall and modafinil are relatively equal in their ability to treat narcolepsy.
There is growing evidence that the same may be true for ADHD.
DailyMed.Label: Adderall XR-dextroamphetamine sulfate, dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine sulfate and amphetamine aspartate capsule, extended release.
DailyMed.Label: Provigil- modafinil tablet.
DailyMed.Label: Adderall-dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine aspartate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, and amphetamine sulfate tablet.
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