Description
What is Modafinil used to treat?
Modafinil is a central nervous system stimulant developed in the 70s and then licensed for use in the 90s. It is sold under the brand name Provigil among others and available as a generic medication. Generic medications have the same active ingredients as branded medications, however the pharmaceutical companies who manufacture them did not invest the same amount of time and money into the development of the medication. This is why generic medications are usually available at much lower prices.
Modafinil tablets are used to treat a range of conditions, including narcolepsy, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and for cognitive enhancement, which we will describe in more detail now. Narcolepsy is a rare condition which causes people to suddenly fall asleep in the day and unexpectedly lose muscle tone and collapse. The condition is thought to be caused by the body’s own cells mistakenly attacking the receptors in the brain which secrete a neurotransmitter called hypocretin, which promotes wakefulness. ADHD is a condition which have symptoms including the inability to concentrate, spontaneous behaviour, and reduced capacity for learning.
Although there is no cure for narcolepsy or ADHD, you can buy modafinil to help manage the symptoms. Some people use modafinil for studying as it can increase concentration, memory, and wakefulness, which is useful during exam periods or for completing assignments. It is also used off label for the management of obstructive sleep apnoea and shift-work sleep disorder.
Modafinil Mechanism of Action
Modafinil is thought to primarily target dopamine receptors, however the specific mechanism of action is not fully understood. It is well accepted that the medication is a central nervous system stimulant. The central nervous system consists of the brain and the spinal cord, and there is an abundance of cells within the brain which are called neurons. Neurons communicate via signals within the brain, to the peripheral nervous system and the rest of the body. In between neurons are tiny gaps called synapses, and it is here that a lot of receptors are located.
When the medication binds to the dopamine receptors this stimulates them to produce and secrete the neurotransmitter dopamine while also preventing the reuptake of it. Dopamine is an excitatory neurotransmitter, and it results in increased concentration and motivation. Modafinil pills also indirectly increase the production of hypocretin which improves wakefulness.
Modafinil Duration of Action
So, how long does modafinil last? It is absorbed rapidly via the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, where it passes into the blood stream and crosses the blood brain barrier. It has a high bioavailability of over 80% and the level of absorption isn’t altered if you take it on an empty stomach or with food. You will start to feel the modafinil effects after about 1 hour and it reaches peak plasma concentration after 2 to 3 hours. The modafinil half-life is between 10 and 12 hours, however this can vary due to factors such as your body mass index (BMI) and your metabolism.
The elimination half-life is the amount of time it takes for half of the medication to be metabolised and eliminated from your body, so it will still be detected for at least twice the amount of that time. You can read reviews with anecdotal evidence of how it feels and buy modafinil online from our UK based pharmacy.
Dosage Instructions for Modafinil
The exact modafinil dosage will vary depending on which condition it is being used to treat. The maximum daily dosage will also be different for different disorders but should never exceed 400 mg. Modafinil 200 mg is the usual starting dose for most conditions. If you are taking it for narcolepsy or ADHD, you will usually have 1 tablet in the morning and another in the afternoon. If you are taking modafinil for studying, then you should take it about an hour before you need it to start working. Tablets should always be swallowed whole with a glass of water and never crushed at all.
Modafinil 200 mg can be taken whole or split in half and taken as 2 doses. If you are taking multiple doses throughout the day, then you should ensure that you space the doses out evenly throughout the day.
Does Modafinil Have Side effects?
Unfortunately, all medications have the potential to cause side effects, however for most people they are mild and resolve on their own, if they get them at all. Some of the more common modafinil side effects include the following:
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Reduced appetite
- Constipation
- Stomach ache
- Tachycardia
You do not necessarily need to stop taking modafinil tablets if you experience any of the above side effects, but if you find them particularly bothersome, you could book a consultation with your GP to ask for advice or alternative medications. Some people experience serious side effects; however, this is very rare. If any of the following affect you then you should stop taking the medication immediately and seek medical assistance:
- Dyspnoea
- Hyperglycaemia
- Hypotension or hypertension
- Irregular periods
- Muscle weakness
If you are unsure whether any of the above affects you, then you should seek professional medical advice. Additionally, modafinil and alcohol do not mix well, and you should either avoid drinking or take extra care when you do if you are using this medication.
Can Modafinil be used long-term?
Of all the prescribed central nervous stimulants, Modafinil has the lowest risk of addiction and habit-forming properties. It has been approved for long term use and it does not affect your tolerance if used for many weeks or months. We are often asked “Modafinil vs Ritalin – which is better?”. In reality, it will depend on the condition you are using each medication for. Modafinil tablets have a non-narcotic status, while Ritalin is a class B controlled drug in the UK and has a much higher risk of physical dependence, increased tolerance, and side effects.
If your tolerance builds up to a medication it means you will not benefit to the same extent as time goes on, or you will have to repeatedly increase the dose. If you were to stop taking it suddenly you would also experience unpleasant withdrawal effects. For this reason, modafinil pills are considered a much safer treatment option for long-term use.
Should Anyone Avoid Modafinil?
Modafinil is safe for most people over the age of 18, however it is contraindicated for some groups of people, certain conditions, or medications. You should book a consultation with your GP before taking this medication if any of the following apply to you:
- You are allergic to any of the ingredients listed
- You have experienced anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction) before
- You have been treated for addiction in the past
- You have a heart condition
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You are on hormonal contraceptives
Although this is very rare, there is the possibility of developing a serious disorder called Steven-Johnson syndrome, so if you notice the appearance of a rash when you start the medication, you should stop taking it immediately and speak to your GP.
Considerations Before You Buy Modafinil
There are many modafinil benefits, and as we have said it is useful for the management of a range of disorders and can be used as a cognitive enhancer. Before you buy modafinil however, you should consider whether this is the best medication for your needs. This class of medications are known as nootropics, and while there are those that are available on the NHS, there are natural alternatives which some people may prefer. Caffeine is a natural nootropic for example, and it can increase energy and concentration.
There is also some evidence to suggest that the supplement ginkgo biloba is useful for promoting energy and motivation. There have not been a sufficient level of clinical trials to confidently say the true efficacy of natural supplements however, and if you feel they are not adequate you may wish to buy modafinil or another regulated medication.
Where to buy Modafinil in the UK
You can now buy modafinil online in the UK without the need for a prescription from your GP. We understand that not everyone is able to book a consultation with their doctor and wait for a referral, and we advocate being able to take control of your condition and buy essential medications. You can search the term “modafinil for sale” or purchase directly from our online, UK based pharmacy. Our medications are affordable, and we ship our orders quickly and discreetly.
Where can you get it?
On this website. Direct from the manufacturer with highly competitive pricing.
