Modafinil vs Armodafinil

People who suffer from excessive sleepiness during the day often need medicines to keep themselves from falling asleep at odd hours. These medications are known as wakefulness-promoting agents. 

In this blog, we have compared two of the most popular wakefulness-promoting agents, namely Modafinil and Armodafinil. 

So, Modafinil vs.Armodafinil? Which of these two nootropics is better for you? Let’s find out. 

Modafinil Vs. Armodafinil – An Overview Of The Nootropics

Modafinil and Armodafinil are both central nervous system stimulants that are used to treat excessive daytime sleepiness. Armodafinil is the R-enantiomer of the racemic Modafinil, which means they have a slightly different arrangement of structure but have the same chemical structure.  

Working Mechanisms Of Modafinil And Armodafinil 

The effects of Modafinil and Armodafinil are mediated through various chemical messengers or neurotransmitters. They increase the levels of dopamine, serotonin, orexin, histamine, and glutamate, all of which cause increased alertness, whereas they decrease the levels of GABA (Gama-aminobutyric acid), which is responsible for causing sleepiness. 

Armodafinil Vs. Modafinil – Similarities 

Modafinil and Armodafinil have a vast number of similarities. However, some factors set them apart. 

Some of the similarities between Modafinil and Armodafinil are mentioned below – 

How Long Does They Take To Kick In?

It takes about 30 to 60 minutes for both Modafinil and Armodafinil to start working. 

What Class Of Drugs Are Modafinil And Armodafinil?

They are stimulant-like drugs with a eugeroic property that promotes wakefulness.

What Are Modafinil And Armodafinil Used For? 

The prescription use of Armodafinil and Modafinil includes improving Excessive daytime sleepiness associated with a sleep disorder such as Narcolepsy, Obstructive sleep apnea, and shift work sleep disorder. 

They are also properly used for off-label benefits, including-

Cognitive enhancement- Both Armodafinil and Modafinil help improve brain activity, thus helping achieve better memory, concentration, and attention span. It also enhances the thinking and decision-making ability of the user. 

Additionally, they are also effective as a second line of treatment for improving signs of Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Cancer, and multiple sclerosis-related fatigue. 

Drug Interactions

Some medications that should be taken with Modafinil and Armodafinil are Cyclosporine, diazepam, phenytoin, omeprazole, ethinyl estradiol, and norethindrone.

Side Effects 

Some of the common side effects of Modafinil and Armodafinil include nausea, headache, insomnia, diarrhea, dizziness, back pain, nasal congestion, dry mouth, indigestion, nervousness, anxiety, and decreased appetite.

Their long-term use is considered safe if administered correctly. However, improper prolonged use of these Nootropics can result in unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, fatigue, insomnia, and irritable mood, and can cause physical and psychological dependence.

What form does the medicine come in? 

Both these Nootropics are oral medications that must be swallowed with plain water. 

Drug Classification

Both Modafinil and Armodafinil, along with their brand drugs, are classified as Schedule IV prescription medications. They indicate a low potency for abuse and drug dependency. 

Differences Between Modafinil And Armodafinil

Chemical Structure 

Modafinil is the racemic mixture of R-(-)-Modafinil and S-(+)- Modafinil are what are known as enantiomers. Meaning they have the same 3D structure and the same number of atoms, but in the third dimension, they are mirror images of one another.

In simpler terms – your hands are enantiomers of each other. Even though both hands are identical to one another, one cannot have the same hand if you try to place the right hand on top of the left hand.

Armodafinil consists purely of the R-enantiomer of Modafinil, whereas Modafinil consists of both the enantiomers. That is why Armodafinil is called the enantiopure compound of Modafinil.

How Long Does Modafinil And Armodafinil Last?

Modafinil lasts for 12-15 hours in most individuals, whereas Armodafinil stays in the system for 15 hours [1]. 

There are various factors that influence how long Armodafinil and Modafinil stay in the system. These include –

• Liver problem,
• Age
• Dosage. 

The Half-Life Of Armodafinil And Modafinil

Armodafinil has a longer half-life than Modafinil, meaning it gives a longer-lasting effect and better wakefulness throughout the whole day, according to a 2010 study by M. Darwish et al. [2].

The half-life of Modafinil is 10-12 hours, whereas the half-life of Armodafinil is 12-15 hours. 

Armodafinil And Modafinil Brand Names 

The brand names of Armodafinil are Waklert and Artvigil, whereas the brand names of Modafinil are Modvigil and Modalert. 

Armodafinil And Modafinil Dosage

The standard dosage of Modafinil is 200 mg, whereas the standard dosage of Armodafinil is 150 mg [3] [4]. 

The dosages of both the nootropics may vary from patient to patient. 

Armodafinil and Modafinil – Cost Comparison

The cost of Armodafinil at Mymodalert online pharmacy is $1 per pill, whereas the price of Modafinil is $1.25 per pill. 

Precautions And Warnings During Modafinil And Armodafinil Use 

These drugs should not be used if –

• The Patient is allergic to any ingredient in Modafinil or Armodafinil. 
• The Patient has a history of developing a rash after taking the nootropics.
• The Patient had or has any heart problems or heart disease. 

Before taking these wakefulness-promoting agents, people should have prior consultation from a doctor if they are –

• Breastfeeding, planning to become pregnant, or pregnant.
• Taking any herbal medicines or vitamin supplements or taking any prescription or non-prescription medicines. 
• Allergic to certain foods, medicines, or other substances.
• Having kidney, heart, liver, or high blood pressure problems.
• Having a history of mental illness such as mania, depression, anxiety, psychosis, suicidal actions or thoughts, or substance abuse such as alcohol. 

Modafinil Or Armodafinil – Our Final Thoughts

There are a few distinctions between Modafinil and Armodafinil, as both work in a similar manner and produce similar effects. They are both classified as effective medications when it comes to treating different sleep disorders.

Armodafinil is a newer medicine compared to Modafinil, and in a study, it was stated that Armodafinil is 1.33 times more potent than the racemic Modafinil published in the year 2011 [5]. 

Below is a glimpse of the pros and cons of Armodafinil and Modafinil that will help you choose the right nootropic for you. 

Therefore, according to our findings, Armodafinil emerges as a better option for people who are looking for longer hours of effectiveness, whereas people who are on a budget can go with Modafinil.