Quick info
Modasomil®, Vigil®, Provigil®
The active ingredient modafinil belongs to the group of stimulants and has a wakefulness-promoting effect. In Switzerland, Modasomil®, which contains modafinil, is only approved for the treatment of narcolepsy (a neurological disorder that affects sleep-wake regulation). In addition, off-label use of modafinil (i.e., use outside the approved indications) is known, among others, for the treatment of ADHD or depression. Due to its wakefulness-regulating properties, modafinil is also used as a so-called "smart drug", as a doping substance or as a recreational drug.
The mechanism of action of modafinil is not yet fully understood. It is assumed that modafinil binds to the dopamine transporter and inhibits dopamine reuptake. Unlike other stimulants such as amphetamine or methylphenidate (Ritalin®, Concerta®), which in equivalent wakefulness-promoting doses increase neuronal activity throughout the brain, modafinil acts primarily on the brain regions responsible for controlling waking, sleep, wakefulness and vigilance (sustained attention).
Modafinil thus promotes alertness (physical and mental), increases attention and motor activity. Due to its stimulating, wakefulness-promoting properties, modafinil is consumed by healthy people as a so-called "smart drug" or "cognitive enhancer".
According to user reports, modafinil has a much more subtle effect than other stimulants and does not trigger comparable states of intoxication. Modafinil causes less physical restlessness and the sleep-wake rhythm is less disturbed.
A mood-lifting and euphoric effect is controversial. According to a publication of the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA), modafinil causes psychoactive and euphoric effects, whereas various studies point to the lack of a euphoric effect.
Onset of effect
after approx. 20-60 minutes.
Duration of action
approx. 5-10 hours. After effects are possible even longer
Appearances
In powder or tablet form. Modafinil is present as a racemate.
The recommended daily dose when prescribed by a doctor is 200 mg at the beginning. If there is an insufficient response to this dose, a maximum daily dose of 400 mg may be administered/taken.
The long-term effect of modafinil when taken regularly and over a longer period of time has not yet been studied. If taken over a longer period of time, regular monitoring by a medical specialist is therefore recommended.
Medicines containing modafinil and certain other medicines may influence each other's effect. The dose of the other medicines may have to be adjusted. This is especially important if the following medicines are taken in addition to modafinil:
Caution: The effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives may be impaired by the simultaneous use of modafinil!
Side effects such as blurred vision and dizziness could impair the ability to drive a vehicle or operate machinery.
Taking modafinil is not a substitute for sleep! Be sure to maintain good sleep hygiene.
If you are using modafinil for cognitive performance enhancement: Try to think of alternative strategies to increase your memory and recall. Sleep deprivation after taking modafinil in particular can impair cognitive performance.
Take longer breaks (at least several days) between consumption.
The effect of modafinil can last up to 10 hours. Therefore, pay attention to the time of intake.
Remember to drink enough water. This can be forgotten during the effect of Modafinil.
Medicines containing modafinil and certain other medicines may influence each other's effect. The dose of the other medicines may have to be adjusted. This is especially important if the following medicines are taken in addition to modafinil:
If you or someone else needs urgent help after taking drugs or alcohol, call an ambulance on 144. Tell the emergency responders everything you know.
It could save lives.
