Modvigil (modafinil) is one of numerous generic versions of Provigil, a stimulant meant to help patients stay awake and alert. Generic versions of the medication---which include Modvigil, Modalert, Modawake, and others---are essentially identical to their brand-name counterpart but available at considerably less cost.

This medication should not be used in patients under age 17. Effects on still-developing, young bodies are unclear.

Modvigil Uses

Modvigil has both approved and off-label uses, and more rarely may be abused. Approved uses do vary to some extent according to location but are generally to promote wakefulness, such as in:

• Narcolepsy
• Sleep apnea
• Neurodegenerative disorders
• Delayed sleep phase syndrome
• Chronic fatigue of unknown origin

It may also be used occasionally, such as when:

• A medical condition causes excessive, undesirable sleepiness;
• A schedule is disrupted, causing excessive sleepiness;
• An individual needs to stay awake and alert for an unusually long time.

Off-label uses typically involve taking Modvigil as a cognitive-enhancing or nootropic drug. Many users report the medication causes them to feel:

• More alert
• Greater self-confidence
• Improved sense of well-being
• Improved short-term memory
• Improved ability to concentrate
• Improved ability to perform complex tasks
• Improved ability to stay awake if desired
• Reduced "brain fog" or sleep inertia

Not everyone who takes Modvigil experiences all the above effects, or experience them in the same strength, though most notice a difference in at least a few areas.

Modvigil may cause a mild euphoria in some patients, though not as extreme as that experienced with many other stimulants. Those sensitive to its euphoric effects may begin taking Modvigil simply to attain euphoria, regardless of need to stay awake or concentrate. This is typically considered abuse, though it rarely happens.

Modvigil is also sometimes used as a performance enhancer. Patients involved in activities which may test for substances should be aware that Modvigil may be tested for/detected. If it was prescribed by a doctor, typically for sleep issues, showing proof of a prescription should resolve the issue. If no prescription can be produced, users can likely expect some form of punishment.

Taking Modvigil

Modvigil is most widely available in 200 mg tablets, though some brands sell 100 mg tablets, and all tablets can be split or quartered for smaller doses. The standard dose strength for the majority of patients is 200 mg.

In most cases treatment is very similar. The medication is used as-needed, whether that need is daily or once a year:

• Take 200 mg about one hour before needed wakefulness; or
• Take 200 mg once daily in the morning; or
• Take 100 mg in the morning and 100 mg around midday.
• Do not exceed 400 mg in one day without doctor instruction.

The medication begins working about one hour after administration and effects remain for about 8 to 15 hours.

Patients in extenuating circumstances which require staying awake and alert for abnormally long periods---such as in combat situations---typically take:

• 200 mg for the first dose.
• 100 mg every 8 hours for as long as required.
• Do not exceed 400 mg in one day without explicit doctor approval.

Those interested in Modvigil as a cognitive-enhancer should note that taking more than 200 mg per day will help a patient stay awake but has not shown to improve concentration, memory, or similar effects.

Regardless of what a person takes Modvigil for, do not exceed 400 mg in a 24-hour period. While this medication does not produce the same side effects as other stimulants---racing heartbeat, tremors, etc---it can produce complications, some of which can be serious, if misused.

Also note that sleep deprivation can produce very serious complications of its own, even if symptoms are disguised with Modvigil or a similar stimulant. It's fine to use Modvigil once per day or sporadically, but it should not be used to regularly promote wakefulness beyond 8 to 15 hours at a stretch.

Potential Complications

The most common side effects associated with Modvigil are nausea and vertigo, both of which are more likely to occur with higher doses. With excessive, prolonged use patients may experience anxiety and insomnia, though these should both dissipate when treatment ends.

Very rarely the medication can produce a potentially life-threatening skin reaction. While taking Modvigil, seek emergency medical attention at once if experiencing:

• Any kind of unexplained rash or hives
• Sores in the mouth
• Peeling or blistering skin
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Dark urine
• High fever

Modvigil may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal birth control. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not use this medication.

Risk of serious side effects can be significantly higher in patients with other medical conditions or taking other medications. If either apply, patients are strongly encouraged to consult a doctor or, if not possible, perform their own in-depth research regarding Modvigil and the given condition or medication. Though very rare, these complications can prove fatal if not recognized or addressed.