Modvigil is a brand of generic Modafinil manufactured by Hab Pharma in India. Modafinil is an oral drug that is used to improve wakefulness in patients with excessive sleepiness.
Modvigil is a blessing to those who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome, or with narcoleptic patients, and also those who suffer from shift work disorder. Some people use this “smart drug” to improve their alertness, mental energy, and even cognitive performance.
You can buy Modvigil for a much cheaper price than the original Provigil which is a brand name version of Modafinil manufactured by Cephalon.
Student and individuals with ADHD/ADD sometimes also use Modvigil to enhance their study habits. Users report extreme focus and concentration while using this drug.
It is also noted for having a mood-brightening effect and may have a positive effect on individuals suffering from anxiety or depression.
Modvigil is structurally different from other types of central nervous system stimulants. It also does not have the number of withdrawal symptoms that come with some of the other stimulants. Side effects are also much less severe and typically described as fairly mild.



- Stimulates wakefulness in the brain
- Promotes mental acuity & processing
- Enhances focus, motivation & energy
How Modafinil Works
Related Topics
- What is Modafinil? (Provigil)
- How Does Provigil Work?
- Effects and Benefits
- User Reviews
- Typical Experiences
- Recommended Dosages
- How to Take
- Provigil Uses
- Use for ADHD
- Effects on Weight Loss
- Negative Side Effects
- Abuse Warnings & Dangers
- Comparison to Adrafinil
- Comparison to Armodafinil
- Comparison to Adderall
- Where to Buy
- Generic Modafinil Brands
- Is Modafinil Legal?
- How to Get Modafinil
- Review of Online Sources
Adrafinil is a benzhydryl sulfinyl compound that was first developed in 1974. Testing on this compound led to the discovery of Modafinil.
Modafinil and Adrafinil are very similar compounds on a molecular level, with the only difference in structure being that Modafinil lacks a hydroxyl group the Adrafinil has on its terminal amide. The reason for this high level of similarity is that Adrafinil is in fact the prodrug of Modafinil.
In the body, Adrafinil is metabolized in the liver into modafinilic acid and Modafinil. During testing to determine Adrafinil’s mechanism of action in the body, it was determined that Modafinil is the primary active component of Adrafinil.
Both Adrafinil and Modafinil are classified as eugeroic compounds, meaning they have wakefulness promoting effects. They have stimulating effects, but are not related to traditional amphetamine based stimulants, as they have different mechanisms of action in the body.
Modafinil’s precise mechanism of action is still unknown, however extensive research has shown that it has effects on a variety of neurotransmitters, their neurons, and their transporters. Modafinil has been observed to affect Dopamine, Serotonin, Epinephrine (Adrenaline), Norepinephrine (Noradrenaline), Histamine, and Orexin (Hypocretin).
It has been suggested that while it may have some effect on these other neurotransmitters, that many of Modafinil’s effects are tied to the effects it has on Orexin and Histamine. Both Orexin, a neuropeptide, and Histamine, a neurotransmitter, regulate various bodily systems and responses, including sleep and wakefulness, appetite control, and arousal.
Modafinil has been observed to strongly activate Orexin neurons and induces Orexin-secreting neurons in the hypothalamus. This release of Orexin in turn stimulates the release of Histamine.
Approved On-Label Uses of Modvigil
Because of the wakefulness promoting effects observed in Adrafinil, and the stimulating effects seen in initial animal trials, Modafinil was first tested in humans as a treatment for the sleep disorder narcolepsy.
This neurological sleep disorder causes excessive sleepiness and sufferers typically fall asleep randomly multiple times per day. In many different double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trials, Modafinil was seen to significantly improve wakefulness and decrease excessive sleepiness in narcoleptics.
Modafinil has been used as a prescription drug for the treatment of narcolepsy in the US since its approval for this use by the FDA in 1998. Since that time, the FDA has approved Modafinil as a treatment for two other sleep disorders.
Shift-work sleep disorder (SWSD) is a potentially serious circadian rhythm disorder. Some people must be awake during the night to work late night or overnight work shifts at their jobs, which can cause this sleep disorder to occur. Most people experience excessive sleepiness when awake and working at night, and sometimes insomnia when trying to sleep during the day.
Obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is a medical condition where the upper airway become either partially or completely blocked while sleeping, leading to shallow breathing, known as hypopnea, or the temporary stopping of breathing, known as apnea.
Because these breathing episodes can occur up to multiple times per hour at while sleeping, people with this condition often have poor quality and quantity of sleep. This leads to excessive daytime sleepiness. Typical treatment for OSAHS is using a CPAP machine at night to keep the airway clear, however some individuals still experience residual sleepiness even with this treatment.
The root cause is different in these two conditions, but the symptom of excessive sleepiness is common between them. As observed in patients with narcolepsy, Modafinil is able to reduce excessive sleepiness in people with SWSD and OSAHS.

- Increases energy, wakefulness and motivation
- Boosts mental performance and focus
- Supports memory and cognition
Popular Off-label Uses
Any use of a prescription drug that is not an approved on-label use is considered an off-label use. Many drugs are used for off-label uses, and Modafinil is no exception. It is estimated that as many as 90% of all prescriptions written for Modafinil are in fact used off-label.
Some off-label uses of Modafinil are directly related to its wakefulness promoting effects that make it a successful treatment for certain sleep disorders. Fatigue is an unfortunate side effect associated with many different conditions and diseases, including depression, Parkinson’s disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, and multiple sclerosis.
One of the most popular off-label uses of Modafinil relates to the stimulating effects it has. Modafinil is sometimes prescribed as an alternative treatment for the symptoms of attention-deficit disorder (ADD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
In multiple studies compared to a placebo, Modafinil has been seen to significantly improve scores on a variety of ADHD tests including the Teacher and Parent ADHD Rating Scale-IV, Conners Rating Scales, and the Clinical Global Impressions-Improvement scale.
In a study that compared Modafinil to a placebo and also a traditional ADHD medication, dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine), it was seen that both active medications significantly improved scores on the DSM-IV ADHD Behavior Checklist for Adults compared to scores seen with placebo. Modafinil improved scores in a similar fashion to the traditional stimulant treatment.
Another very popular off-label use of Modafinil is taking the drug for cognitive enhancement purposes. Users have reported that Modafinil improves concentration, focus, motivation, learning ability, and memory. Some people will take it before a university exam or a large presentation at work to help given them a boost.
A literature review done in 2007 of the compiled research saw general trends across studies suggesting that Modafinil may improve working and episodic memory. Another review said the body of evidence they examined suggests that Modafinil may increase executive functions (time management, problem solving, mental flexibility), when planning and completing complex and difficult tasks.
One research study had participants take either Modafinil or a placebo and then complete a series of tests of memory and attention. Significantly improved performance on tests of memory (digit span and visual pattern recognition), spatial planning, and stop-signal reaction time was seen in the Modafinil group compared to the placebo group.
In addition to these performance improvements, there was a reduction in impulsive responses, leading the researchers to suggest that Modafinil could have beneficial effects on people with ADHD.
How to Use Modvigil
First of all, like any other drug, you should make sure that it is safe for you to use before you take it. Ensure that you do not have any pre-existing conditions for which Modafinil is counter-indicated and that you are not allergic to it, or any of the ingredients that are in it.
Also if you’re taking any other medications make sure that they can safely interact with Modvigil. If you are unsure, it’s always good to contact a physician and double check regarding important precautions.
If you are taking other medicine, your doctor may use this information to recalculate your dosage to help avoid a possible unwanted reaction.
If you’re self-medicating with Modvigil and are using it without a prescription (strongly not recommended), then make sure you are not using any other medicine while you’re on the Modvigil cycle.
Also while using Modvigil make sure to be carefully on the lookout for any potential changes in your bodily condition. If you notice any side effects, immediately notify your doctor.
Modvigil Dosage Guide
Modvigil most often comes in a 200 mg tablet that is to be taken orally. It is most often taken once a day with or without food. Some people find that they only need 100 mg of Modafinil in order to see full benefits. In this case, you can split a single tablet into two pieces to achieve a smaller dose.
Those who are using this medicine to treat narcolepsy or obstructive sleep apnea should take one pill in the morning and the effects will last all day long due to the long half-life.
Those who are using it to combat with shift work disorder should take it one hour before the shift. (If your work shifts do not begin the same time each day, you should talk to your doctor about next steps.)
Modvigil may be habit forming; it is recommended to not exceed the recommended dosage, and to not take it more often than advised by your doctor.
Who should avoid using Modvigil?
To prevent side effects, you should avoid using Modvigil if you are in the habit of regularly consuming alcohol, or if you have an addiction to any street drugs.
You should also avoid using Modvigil if you have a past history of chest pains, irregular heartbeat, or any other cardio vascular problems. Modvigil is also only made for adults; children should not use this medication
Women that are pregnant, or are planning to be pregnant soon, should also stay clear of Modvigil or any other Modafinil brands, as the effects on a developing fetus are unknown.
If you have recently undergone any kind of surgery (including dental) or if you have previously suffered from any heart problems after taking a stimulant you should double check with your doctor before using Modvigil. The same goes for those with a history of heart attacks, elevated blood pressure, or any mental illness including anxiety and depression.
Even if you don’t think you fit into any of the categories described above, it is still a good idea to inform your doctor of any medical conditions that you may have and present him with your medical record.
With this information at hand you should discuss with your doctor the correct approach towards buying Modvigil online.
Remember that Modvigil, just like any other drug, may be dangerous if you are unsure about what you’re doing. If you notice any allergic reactions or any other side effects, immediately discontinue use and seek medical attention.
Potential Modvigil Side Effects
Modvigil is generally well tolerated when taken at prescribed dosages. There have been some common side effects reported in clinical trials and user reviews, including headache, nausea, back pain, anxiety, nervousness, heartburn, indigestion, vomiting, diarrhea, dry skin/mouth, and insomnia.
Sometimes side effects are caused by too high of a dosage for personal sensitivities, and trying a lower dosage for a while may help. You may be able to slow increase your dosage back to a normal level if side effects do not return.
Insomnia is most commonly caused by taking Modvigil too late in the day. As mentioned previously, Modafinil has a long half-life (between 12-15 hours), and its stimulating effects last a long time. It is recommended to take Modafinil in the morning before noon, to avoid sleep disturbances that could occur if it is taken later in the day.
While rare, there is the possibility of developing some serious skin and mucous membrane conditions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms when taking Modvigil. There has been strong evidence to suggest that there is a genetic predisposition that some people have that makes them susceptible to developing these adverse reactions when they take certain medications such as Modafinil.
If you develop a fever, flu-like symptoms, and/or a red/purple rash that spreads and blisters, then stop taking Modvigil, and contact your doctor immediately or go to an emergency room.
Can you Buy Modafinil Online?
The most standard dosage of Modvigil is 200 milligrams. The cost of it will vary depending on the amount of pills you purchase. Unit price may range anywhere from $0.8 per pill to about $2 per pill.
This is a significant discount compared to the cost of Provigil which can exceed $10 per 200 mg pill. The most popular purchase is of about 90 units, which will cost you about $115, or roughly $1.28 per pill. This supply can last anywhere from three months to a full year depending on how frequently you take it.
Besides the amount of pills playing a role on unit cost, prices may also vary between the different distributors, so you should look around to find the best deal. It is also important to purchase from trusted Modvigil vendors to ensure that you are getting a legitimate product. Any legitimate online pharmacy will require a prescription to buy Modvigil, as it is a prescription-only drug in many countries around the world.
Modvigil is made by an Indian pharmaceutical company though, and may be sold by vendors in Indian without requiring a prescription. Modafinil is considered an over the counter drug in India, therefore making it legal for these online pharmacies to sell it without require proof of a prescription.
However, you may run in to some issues if you buy from an overseas pharmacy like this. First of all, it can be difficult to determine the legitimacy of an online pharmacy, and the quality of its products. Some vendors do not have strict quality assurance procedures in place, or buy from manufacturers, therefore the Modvigil you buy could be an impure, contaminated product, or not the strength you order.
Secondly, you may encounter issues when trying to import your Modvigil. Customs agents are aware of the market for buying and selling prescription medications on the gray market without a prescription. They are often looking for packages from countries like China, India, and Mexico that could contain prescription medications.
These packages may be seized, and you could be asked to provide proof of a doctor’s prescription for Modafinil. If you cannot provide one, then your order could be seized and you may face legal ramifications for buying and importing a prescription drug without a prescription.
Because of these risks, many people will instead consider using a legal Modafinil alternative like Adrafinil or one of the Racetams.
Non-prescription Modafinil Alternatives
Because many people cannot get a prescription for Modafinil, and do not want to take the risk of buying without a prescription from an overseas pharmacy, they turn to some legal non-prescription alternatives instead, such as Adrafinil or one of the Racetams.
As described previously, Adrafinil is the prodrug of Modafinil. It breaks down in the liver into the active Modafinil after about an hour. Because it is not a perfect conversion, a higher dosage of Adrafinil is needed to compare to a regular dosage of Modafinil, but the effects are said to be be nearly the same.
Because it is broken down in the liver, there is a potential for a build-up of hepatotoxic enzymes if Adrafinil is used on a regular basis. Therefore it is recommended that it only be used on an occasional basis for times when you are looking for an extra cognitive boost.
Another option that some people try is using one of the Racetam family of compounds. This group is all based of the original nootropic compound, Piracetam, that was developed for UCB Pharma in the 1960s.
Piracetam and the other Racetams have positive effects on the Acetylcholine neurotransmission system in the brain and central nervous system. Increased levels of Acetycholine are associated with improved learning ability, general cognition, and memory. Piracetam has also been seen to increase glucose and oxygen transport in the brain, as well as increase cell membrane permeability.
Since the development of Piracetam, there has been more research done, and more potent derivatives have been developed. Aniracetam and Oxiracetam for example are considered between 3-6 times more powerful than Piracetam, while Pramiracetam is considered 30 times more powerful than its predecessor.
These derivatives also have some enhanced effects over those of Piracetam. Aniracetam for example has been said to have anxiolytic effects, and acts as a better AMPA receptor agonist than Piracetam. Pramiractam is specifically known for increasing mental focus, alertness, and energy levels, making it a similar substitute for Modafinil.
Adrafinil and the Racetams are unscheduled, unregulated compounds in the United States, and many other countries around the world. It is possible to buy them without a prescription, making them ideal alternatives for Modafinil. They are available from a variety of specialized online nootropic stores.
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Article last updated on: April 11th, 2018 by Nootriment