Adderall and Modafinil are two well-known drugs that have gotten a lot of attention for these uses. But before you think about using them, it’s important to know how they work, what the law says about them, and why doctors might suggest one over the other.
What is Adderall ?
Adderall is a brand name for a drug that is a mix of two drugs: dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), this mix of drugs can be used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, a sleep disease in which people may have sleep attacks during the day and while doing activities like driving. Both of the main ingredients in Adderall are drugs that stimulate the central nervous system.
There are two types of Adderall:
- That works right away (Adderall IR) and when the drug is taken immediately, it works for 4 to 6 hours
- That lasts longer (Adderall XR) and when it is taken over time, it works for 12 hours.
What is Modafinil ?
Modafinil, which is sold under the brand name Provigil, is another drug that speeds up the brain and nerves. Modafinil is often called a eugeroic drug, which means it causes you to be more awake and aware. The FDA has approved modafinil to help people who experience daytime sleepiness and who suffer from a variety of conditions, including
- Narcolepsy
- Shift work disorder is a real disorder that effects people who can’t sleep normally when they work nights.
- Sleepiness that comes with other health problems, like obstructive sleep apnea
Legal Formalities for Adderall & Modafinil in USA, UK, Canada, Europe & Australia
United States:
Both Adderall and Modafinil are controlled drugs in the United States. They are both on Schedule II. In other words, they are very likely to be abused and become dependent. Legally, you can only get them with a prescription from a qualified doctor or nurse.
United Kingdom, Canada, Europe, and Australia:
In the same way, Adderall and Modafinil are both controlled substances in the UK, Canada, Europe, and Australia that can only be obtained with a prescription and are subject to tight rules because they are stimulants that could be abused.
How does a Modafinil tablet work?
It is thought that modafinil works by raising the amount of dopamine in the brain. It keeps nerve cells from reabsorbing dopamine, which increases dopamine activity and makes you more awake and aware. This mechanism, along with possible effects on other neurotransmitters like histamine and norepinephrine, helps Modafinil improve brain performance and fight excessive daytime sleepiness.
How does Adderall work?
Neurotransmitters, especially dopamine and norepinephrine, are made more available in the brain when you take Adderall. As a mix of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, it increases the release of these chemicals while also stopping their reuptake. This makes you more alert, helps you focus, and improves your brain function. This system helps people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) handle their hyperactivity, impulses, and attention.
Modafinil 200mg Dosages vs Adderall dosage
Modafinil is usually taken once a day in the morning at a dose of 200 mg to help people stay awake. How much Adderall a person needs and can handle varies, but it’s normally between 5 mg and 30 mg taken once or twice a day.
Why Doctors Suggests Modafinil in place of Adderall
Doctors may recommend Modafinil over Adderall for several reasons, including:
- Lower Risk of Abuse
Modafinil has a lower potential for abuse and dependence compared to Adderall, making it a safer option for long-term use.
- Fewer Side Effects
There are fewer side effects with modafinil compared to Adderall. The side effects are usually minor, and there is a lower risk of heart problems.
- Non-Stimulant Alternative
Modafinil is a non-stimulant option that can help people stay awake and think better who can’t handle stimulants or have a history of drug abuse.
Both Adderall and Modafinil can improve cognitive function and wakefulness, but they work in different ways. They both are not allowed in all states, and may have different side effects. It is important to talk to a medical professional to figure out which choice is best for you based on your needs and medical history. It is also important to use these medicines carefully and in line with the law so that the risk of side effects is kept to a minimum.