Table of contents

ADHD

13 min read

Modafinil vs. Adderall: Which One Should I Take?

Modafinil vs. Adderall: Which One Should I Take?

Written by Klarity Editorial Team

Published: Feb 14, 2022

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Zoe Russell

Share
Table of contents

Looking for a suitable medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be difficult, as there are many options that won’t always fit your specific needs. 

Modafinil and Adderall are frequently prescribed to treat ADHD, as each can help improve symptoms like difficulty focusing or impulsivity. However, these medications don’t always work for everyone. 

In this article, we’ll discuss each medication so that you can have a clear understanding of how Modafinil and Adderall work so that you can have an informed discussion with your healthcare provider. 

While we can often have a clear understanding of our own symptoms, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional instead of self-diagnosing. If you have ADHD and want to explore Modafinil or Adderall, speak to a medical professional through Klarity today to determine what medication, if any, is right for you. 

Klarity connects patients with ADHD specialists for fast, affordable, and personalized online ADHD treatment, so you can get the help you need right at home. Take the first step toward ADHD symptom relief by taking Klarity’s schedule an appointment today. 

This article discusses suicide, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or is in crisis, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline immediately at 800-273-8255.

ModafinilAdderall
Drug ClassSchedule IV stimulantSchedule II stimulant
Brand / Generic StatusGeneric medication

Brand name: Provigil
Brand name for amphetamine salts
Form(s) of the DrugWhite, scored immediate-release tabletsImmediate-release tablets
Standard Dosage100mg and 200mg tablets5mg to 30mg tablets
Conditions TreatedFDA-approved uses:
• Narcolepsy
• Sleepiness related to sleep apnea
• Shift work sleep disorder

Off-label uses:
• ADHD
FDA-approved uses:
• ADHD
• Narcolepsy (sleep disorder)

Off-label uses:
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Bipolar disorder
CostBrand-name (Provigil):
• $294.79 for 30-day supply

Generic form (modafinil):
• $15 for 30-day supply
Brand-name Adderall:
• $8 per 5mg tablet
• $237 for a 30-day supply

Generic form (amphetamine salts):
• $13 for 30 days of 5mg tablets
• $85 for 30 extended-release pills
Side-EffectsCommon side effects:
• Headache
• Nausea
• Nervousness
• Dizziness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Dry mouth
• Heartburn
• Muscle stiffness
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea

Serious side effects:
• Irregular heartbeat
• Changes in mood
• Confusion
• Depression
• Hallucinations
• Suicidal thoughts
• Allergic reaction
Common side-effects:
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Headache
• Fever
• Trouble sleeping

Serious side effects:
• Signs of blood flow problems
• Behavior changes
• Uncontrolled movements
• Shortness of breath
Irregular heartbeat
• Seizures
• Trouble speaking
Warnings For UseContraindications:
• Heart conditions
• Blood pressure conditions
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding

May be habit-forming
Contraindicated conditions:
• Substance abuse

Warnings:
• May be habit-forming
• Effectiveness may decrease over time

Drug interactions:
• MAOIs
• SSRIs

How Modafinil and Adderall Work

Modafinil and Adderall both work as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants that affect neurotransmitters in the brain. They can increase your level of alertness or focus, and help you maintain a general feeling of wakefulness. 

Both Modafinil and Adderall have stimulant qualities. The neurotransmitters that are targeted by these medications are also unique, as Modafinil targets dopamine and Adderall targets serotonin and norepinephrine.

People with high blood pressure or other heart conditions need to exercise caution when taking any kind of stimulant, including Modafinil and Adderall. Both medications can raise blood pressure and be potentially harmful if you have such ailments. 

If you experience a severe headache, chest pain, uneven heartbeat, or shortness of breath after taking either of these drugs, stop taking them and contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Modafinil

Modafinil is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), which means it can be habit-forming. You should always take this medication exactly as prescribed in order to avoid adverse reactions and side effects. 

Forms and Dosages

Modafinil is available in 100mg and 200mg oral tablets. Still, the dosing will vary depending on your health history, current symptoms, and the recommendation of your healthcare provider. 

Indications and Conditions Treated

Modafinil is primarily used to treat narcolepsy, excessive sleepiness caused by obstructive sleep apnea, or shift work sleep disorder. However, it can be used off-label to treat ADHD. Off-label use occurs when a healthcare provider prescribes Modafinil because it benefits people with ADHD symptoms, even though it’s not FDA-approved to treat ADHD. 

Costs

The cost of the most common form of Modafinil ranges from as low as $15 for 30 days of the 100mg tablets with discount coupons to the average retail price of $294.79. Most insurances cover generic Modafinil–contact your provider for your exact cost. Your medical provider may be able to help you find coupons or discounts as well. 

Side Effects

Everyone experiences side effects differently and you should always consult your healthcare provider if they persist or worsen. Some of the side effects of taking Modafinil include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Nervousness
  • Dizziness
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Dry mouth
  • Heartburn
  • Muscle stiffness
  • Stomach pain
  • Diarrhea

More serious side effects include:

  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Changes in mood
  • Confusion
  • Depression
  • Hallucinations
  • Thoughts of suicide
  • Steven Johnson Syndrome

In cases of a severe allergic reaction, fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing may occur. If you experience these or other serious side effects contact your doctor immediately.

Warnings for Use

Dependency warning: Modafinil is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance in the United States. While Schedule IV substances have a lower potential for abuse compared to drugs in higher schedules, such as Schedule II or Schedule III, it still requires a prescription from a healthcare professional for legal use. 

Additionally, while the chances of becoming dependent on Modafinil are low, it’s important to use Modafinil only as prescribed by a healthcare professional and to follow their instructions to ensure safe and appropriate use of the medication. Side effects of Modafinil misuse include gastrointestinal issues, mood disturbances, disrupted sleep patterns, and—in rare cases—psychosis.

Modafinil should not be taken while pregnant, as it may harm an unborn baby, nor should it be taken with hormonal birth control as it could render such medication ineffective.This medication can also have adverse effects on those with any heart or blood pressure conditions, and should be taken with necessary caution. 

Licensed providers on Klarity provide personalized treatment. Find a provider that matches your needs and preferences.

Adderall

Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance, which means that there’s a high potential for misuse. Like any controlled substance, it should only be taken if prescribed by a healthcare provider to avoid negative side effects.

Forms and Dosages

Adderall can range from a 5 mg to a 30 mg tablet, and it is available in an immediate-release and extended-release form. The Adderall XR brand is the most common extended-release form of medication and only needs to be taken once a day.

Indications and Conditions Treated

Adderall is used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy but also has many other uses. It can also treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.

Costs

Because of its status as one of the primary medications for ADHD and narcolepsy, Adderall can be affordable with or without insurance. Without insurance, brand-name Adderall can cost about $8 per 5 mg tablet, with a 30-day supply costing as much as $237.

The generic form of Adderall can cost much less, with a 30-day supply of 5 mg tablets averaging, with a discount coupon, about $13. A maximum dose of the extended-release tablets can cost up to $85 for 30 days, as extended-release medications tend to cost more than immediate-release medications.

Many insurances cover Adderall—contact your provider to learn your exact cost. In addition, your medical provider may be able to help you find coupons to help alleviate your cost.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Adderall are the following:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Dry mouth
  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Fever
  • Nervousness
  • Trouble sleeping

This medication may raise blood pressure, and other serious side effects include: 

  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest/jaw/left arm pain
  • Fainting
  • Severe headache
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Swelling of the ankles or feet
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Trouble speaking
  • Confusion

If you experience any of these, seek medical care immediately.

Warnings for Use

As a Schedule II stimulant, Adderall carries a higher risk for dependence than Modafinil. Long-term misuse can result in side effects such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, insomnia, loss of appetite, dry mouth, anxiety, irritability, and in rare cases, psychiatric symptoms such as hallucinations or paranoia.

To avoid dependency on Adderall, it is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and duration. Regular communication with the prescribing healthcare professional helps monitor effectiveness and necessity. Awareness of signs of dependence, such as drug cravings, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms, is important, and seeking guidance from a healthcare professional for concerns about dependency or exploring alternative treatment options is advisable.

If Adderall stops working, your healthcare provider may recommend that the dosage be increased. Do not attempt to increase the dosage on your own—only take your Adderall as prescribed.

Which ADHD Medication Will Best Treat You?

It is important to speak to your healthcare provider about your medical history and any medications you take to avoid any severe side effects or drug interactions. If taken incorrectly, these prescription drugs can have intense side effects and withdrawal symptoms.  

While Modafinil and Adderall work similarly for individuals with ADHD, there are subtle differences that make them unique. It is critical to complete a full evaluation with a healthcare provider who specializes in ADHD treatment before taking either of these medications. 

Get ADHD Treatment Today Through Klarity

At Klarity, we understand the importance of accessible and efficient mental health care and proper treatment with the right medications when necessary. That’s why we’ve developed a process where you can be seen by a licensed healthcare provider online. No long wait times, no inconvenient commutes. 

Your mental health shouldn’t have to wait. Get the ADHD treatment you need by scheduling an appointment through Klarity today. 

Subscribe to our blog for the latest health insights and updates

Join our community of health-conscious individuals and gain access to valuable tips, expert advice, and the newest trends in healthcare.

Related posts

logo
All professional services are provided by independent private practices via the Klarity technology platform. Klarity Health, Inc. does not provide any medical services.
Fax:
(855) 975-3008

PO Box 5098 Redwood City, CA 94063

100 Broadway Street, Redwood City CA, 94063

If you’re having an emergency or in emotional distress, here are some resources for immediate help: Emergency: Call 911. National Suicide Prevention Hotline: Call 988. Crisis Text Line: Text Home to 741-741
© 2024 Klarity Health, Inc. All rights reserved.