Did you know that Modafinil was an accidental discovery? It was uncovered by the French drug company L. Lafon during its research into Adrafinil; a stimulant that was being used across the country to boost energy and enhance mood. Further exploration into Modafinil began in the 1980s, with researchers subsequently finding that it was able to prevent the body from clearing dopamine, and could therefore be used as a cognitive enhancer. It was registered in France in 1992.
Modafinil Uses
Dopamine is a chemical that plays a significant role in facilitating communications between the brain and the body. In optimal circumstances, when the body becomes tired, it sends messages to tell the brain that it needs to sleep. Similarly, when faced with situations in which the body needs to be alert, it instructs the brain to remain awake.
However, in people with low dopamine levels, these messages cannot be communicated as easily. As a dopamine reuptake inhibitor, Modafinil stops the body from clearing out unabsorbed dopamine to help increase dopamine concentration.
Since the drug was first registered in France, countries around the world have made Modafinil legal on prescription to treat a wide range of sleep and attention disorders.
It is also believed that there could be a Modafinil/weight loss link. While Modafinil is not yet an approved treatment for obesity, some studies have suggested that taking the medication can suppress appetite, indirectly resulting in weight loss in some cases.
Purchasing Modafinil
In the United States, Modafinil is a Schedule IV Controlled Substance. This means that, with a Modafinil prescription, it is legal to buy Modafinil online or from a pharmacy.
You can find Modafinil for sale under a number of different brand names, including:
- Artvigil
- Modalert
- Modvigil
- Waklert
The brand and the strength will determine the Modafinil price tag. Typically, it is possible to buy Modafinil 100mg – 200mg in tablet form depending on the dose that is required. How long does Modafinil last? The typical half life of a tablet is usually 9-14 hours.
Even though Modafinil is legal to purchase with a prescription, it’s important to understand that, just like any other medication, there may be side effects and if you are unsure, it is always recommended to consult with a medical professional or pharmacist. All Modafinil purchased, regardless of the brand name, should come with clear Modafinil warnings that should be read before use.
Modafinil side effects may include headaches, nausea, diarrhea, back pain, runny nose, dizziness, and a range of other symptoms. Always read the patient information leaflet before taking Modafinil, and speak with a doctor if you experience side effects.
Modafinil Alternatives
Doctors prescribe Modafinil because, in many cases, it is the most effective approved medicine for treating a wide range of sleep disorders, problems with concentration, and disruptions to the body’s natural sleep/wake cycle. However, depending on the specific symptoms that need to be treated, some alternatives may be available.
For problems such as insomnia and sleep disturbances that can affect daytime concentration, the closest alternative to Modafinil is Etizolam. While Etizolam is more often used to help manage anxiety, it can generate a mild sedative effect that can promote sleep. Read more about Etizolam by checking out our Etizolam page.
