Homechevron_rightDrugschevron_rightModafinil (Provigil) Prices
infoSpecialty Drug
Generic Provigil
Used for Narcolepsy, Sleep Apnea, Fatigue
Used for Narcolepsy, Sleep Apnea, Fatigue
Modafinil (Provigil) is a prescription medication used to improve wakefulness in people who have extreme sleepiness due to narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, or shift work disorder. It's considered a controlled substance since this medication has a potential to cause misuse. You should avoid alcohol while taking modafinil (Provigil), as well as certain other medications to avoid any serious interactions and side effects. Common side effects of modafinil (Provigil), however, include headache and nausea.
Reviewed by:
Allison Gourley, PharmD
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on July 19, 2023
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warning
Modafinil (Provigil) is a controlled substance, which means that it's more likely to be misused or cause dependence. There are federal and state laws that limit the amount of medication that can be prescribed or dispensed within a certain period of time.
What is Modafinil (Provigil)?
What is Modafinil (Provigil) used for?
Excessive sleepiness due to narcolepsy, shift work disorder, or obstructive sleep apnea
How Modafinil (Provigil) works
Modafinil (Provigil) is a wake-promoting central nervous system (CNS) medication. Researchers don't know exactly how it works, but it appears to affect areas in the brain that control wakefulness and attention.
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When does Modafinil (Provigil) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect
Drug Facts
Common BrandsProvigil
Drug ClassWakefulness-promoting agent
Controlled Substance ClassificationSchedule IV
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Avg retail price
$749.08
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What are the risks and warnings for Modafinil (Provigil)?
Modafinil (Provigil) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Serious allergic reactions
Risk factors: Previous allergic reaction to modafinil (Provigil)
Though rare, modafinil (Provigil) can cause serious allergic reactions such as swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, or throat which can make it hard to breathe. Sometimes, allergic reactions also involve certain parts of the body such as the liver or blood cells. People who did experience these types of reaction typically reported them 2 weeks to a month after starting modafinil (Provigil). Symptoms include fever and rash, weakness, and yellowing of the skin or white part of the eyes. Get medical help right away if you notice any of these symptoms while taking modafinil (Provigil).
Serious skin reactions
In some rare cases, severe, and possibly fatal skin reactions can happen while taking modafinil (Provigil). Examples of such reactions include Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) syndrome. Stop taking modafinil (Provigil) and get medical help right away if you notice a new rash, sores, or blisters on your skin, lips, or inside your mouth, or peeling of your skin.
Driving impairment
Risk factors: Taking with alcohol | Taking other medications that make you less alert
See AlsoModafinil Reviews & Ratings - Drugs.comProvigil Reviews & Ratings - Drugs.comModafinil for Depression Reviews - Drugs.com
Modafinil (Provigil) can change the way you focus, think, and react. While the medication can improve wakefulness, some people with extreme sleepiness might still have a hard time staying awake while taking modafinil (Provigil). Be careful and avoid activities that require you to be alert, such as driving a car or operating machinery, until you know how this medication affects you.
Heart problems
Risk factors: History of heart problems
Modafinil (Provigil) can cause chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and shortness of breath in some people and isn't recommended in people with certain heart conditions. Your provider might recommend that you monitor your blood pressure and heart rate while taking modafinil (Provigil).
Mental health disorder symptoms
Risk factors: History of mental health conditions
Some people taking modafinil (Provigil) have reported symptoms associated with certain mental health conditions such as depression, hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren't there), mania (extremely elevated or excited mood), or suicidal thoughts. Watch for worsening depression or any unusual changes in mood or behavior while taking modafinil (Provigil).
What are the side effects of Modafinil (Provigil)?
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
Other Side Effects
Serious Side Effects
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
When do Modafinil (Provigil) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Headache
Nausea
If a line continues to the right, you'll likely keep experiencing this side effect once it starts.
Source:DailyMed
More on Modafinil (Provigil) side effects
The following side effects have also been reported
Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:
Less common
Black, tarry stools
blurred vision or other vision changes
chest pain
chills or fever
clumsiness or unsteadiness
confusion
dizziness or fainting
increased thirst and urination
mental depression
problems with memory
rapidly changing moods
shortness of breath
sore throat
trembling or shaking
trouble in urinating
uncontrolled movements of the face, mouth, or tongue
unusual bleeding or bruising
unusual tiredness or weakness
Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:
Symptoms of overdose
Agitation or excitement
fast or pounding heartbeat
increased blood pressure
trouble with sleeping
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
More common
Anxiety
headache
nausea
nervousness
Less common
Back pain
belching
decrease in appetite
diarrhea
difficulty having a bowel movement
dryness of the mouth
dryness of the skin
feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings
flushing or redness of the skin
heartburn
indigestion
muscle stiffness
sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth
sour stomach
stomach discomfort upset or pain
stuffy or runny nose
swelling
tingling, burning, or prickling sensations in the skin
vomiting
Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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Pros and cons of Modafinil (Provigil)
Pros
Convenient once-daily dosing
Can help you feel awake without feeling overstimulated
Available as a lower-cost generic
Doesn't usually interfere with falling asleep when taken as recommended
Can help with attention as well as fatigue
Cons
Interacts with many medications, including hormonal birth controls, warfarin (Coumadin), and omeprazole (Prilosec)
Older adults and people with severe liver problems might need a lower dose
Not known whether it's safe or works well for children
Generally not recommended if you're pregnant or breastfeeding
Pharmacist tips for Modafinil (Provigil)
Modafinil (Provigil) helps improve wakefulness if you have trouble sleeping due to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), but it doesn't treat the underlying problem. Continue using your other prescribed treatments, such as a breathing machine (continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP), while taking modafinil (Provigil).
You can take modafinil (Provigil) with or without food. Food doesn't change how well this medication works, but it might delay how quickly it starts to work.
If you're using modafinil (Provigil) for shift work disorder (working long or irregular work hours), then you only need to take this medication 1 hour before the start of your work shift and not on days that you don't work.
Modafinil (Provigil) can cause hormonal birth control, such as birth control pills, patches, shots, and vagin*l rings, to not work as well. Talk to your provider about your non-hormonal birth control options for when you're taking modafinil (Provigil) and for at least 1 month after stopping.
Modafinil (Provigil) can treat excessive sleepiness, but it isn't a replacement for sleep. Continue to practice good sleep habits while taking this medication.
Modafinil (Provigil) can cause you to feel jittery and so can coffee and other caffeinated drinks. Until you know how this medication affects you, try to avoid or limit the use of caffeine while taking modafinil (Provigil).
Frequently asked questions about Modafinil (Provigil)
Is modafinil (Provigil) a controlled substance?
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Modafinil (Provigil) is considered a controlled substance, because it has a risk of misuse and for dependence. Always take the medication as prescribed and make sure you store it in a safe place away from others.
How long does modafinil (Provigil) last?
expand_more
Modafinil (Provigil) is a medication that's typically taken once daily because its effects usually lasts for about a day. But research suggests that this medication can be detected in the urine for about 3 days after a dose.
Is modafinil (Provigil) bad for your heart?
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Though rare, there have been reports of people experiencing heart-related side effects, such as chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and heart rhythm problems after starting modafinil (Provigil). This medication isn't recommended for people with certain heart conditions, including heart valve problems. Your provider might recommend that you monitor your blood pressure and heart rate while taking modafinil (Provigil). If you've heart problems, let your provider know before you start modafinil (Provigil).
Does modafinil (Provigil) cause weight loss?
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Weight loss isn't a known side effect of modafinil (Provigil), but it can cause you to lose your appetite. If you're concerned about a change in your appetite or weight while taking this medication, contact your provider.
How long does modafinil (Provigil) take to work?
expand_more
Modafinil (Provigil) starts to work after about an hour. For this reason, if you're taking modafinil (Provigil) before long or irregular work hours, take your dose 1 hour before the start of your work shift. Modafinil (Provigil) reaches peak levels in your body around 2 to 4 hours after your dose.
Can modafinil (Provigil) be used to treat depression?
expand_more
Modafinil (Provigil) isn't FDA-approved for the treatment of depression. But small studies suggest that it might be helpful in easing symptoms of depression for people who didn't get better after taking antidepressants alone, though more research is needed in this area. Keep in mind that though rare, some people reported worsening depression and mood problems after starting modafinil (Provigil). If you're concerned about modafinil (Provigil) and depression, talk with your provider.
Is modafinil (Provigil) safe?
expand_more
Modafinil (Provigil) does have some safety risks, so you need to take this medication under the care and guidance of your provider. Because modafinil (Provigil) is a controlled substance, it carries a risk for addiction and dependence. In addition, it can cause some rare, but serious side effects, such as skin reactions, headache, and dizziness. Make sure to let your provider know about any side effects you're experiencing so they can tell you whether its safe to continue taking modafinil (Provigil). Also, let your provider know what other medical conditions you have and what other medications you're taking because these can also affect how safe modafinil (Provigil) is for you. If you have any safety concerns about modafinil (Provigil), talk with your provider.
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Modafinil (Provigil) dosage forms
The average cost for 30 tablets of 200mg of Modafinil (Provigil) is $25.99 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 96.53% off the average retail price of $749.08.
Tablet
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100mg | 30 tablets | $21.22 | $0.71 |
| 200mg | 30 tablets | $25.99 | $0.87 |
Typical dosing for Modafinil (Provigil)
Narcolepsy and obstructive sleep apnea: The recommended dose is 200 mg by mouth once daily in the morning.
Shift work disorder: The recommended dose is 200 mg by mouth once daily about 1 hour before the start of a work shift.
Your dose might differ if you have liver problems.
Interactions between Modafinil (Provigil) and other drugs
Modafinil (Provigil) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Modafinil (Provigil). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.
Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.
- Alfentanil
- Amiodarone
- Avapritinib
- Axitinib
- Benzhydrocodone
- Brigatinib
- Buprenorphine
- Capmatinib
- Citalopram
- Clarithromycin
- Clobazam
- Cobimetinib
- Codeine
- Daclatasvir
- Darunavir
- Deflazacort
- Desogestrel
- Dienogest
- Dihydrocodeine
- Doxorubicin
- Doxorubicin Hydrochloride Liposome
- Dronedarone
- Drospirenone
- Elbasvir
- Encorafenib
- Entrectinib
- Enzalutamide
- Erdafitinib
- Estradiol
- Ethinyl Estradiol
- Ethynodiol
- Etonogestrel
- Fedratinib
- Fentanyl
- Gestodene
- Glasdegib
- Grazoprevir
- Hemin
- Hydrocodone
- Ifosfamide
- Iobenguane I 131
- Lefamulin
- Lemborexant
- Levonorgestrel
- Lorlatinib
- Lumateperone
- Lurbinectedin
- Medroxyprogesterone
- Meperidine
- Mestranol
- Methadone
- Neratinib
- Nifedipine
- Nomegestrol
- Norelgestromin
- Norethindrone
- Norgestimate
- Norgestrel
- Olaparib
- Oxycodone
- Pemigatinib
- Pentazocine
- Perampanel
- Piperaquine
- Pretomanid
- Rimegepant
- Segesterone
- Selpercatinib
- Selumetinib
- Simeprevir
- Sonidegib
- Sufentanil
- Tacrolimus
- Tazemetostat
- Tolvaptan
- Tramadol
- Ubrogepant
- Ulipristal
- Velpatasvir
- Venetoclax
- Voclosporin
- Voxelotor
- Voxilaprevir
- Zanubrutinib
Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.
- Clomipramine
- Cyclosporine
- Ospemifene
- Triazolam
How much does Modafinil (Provigil) cost?
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Provigil (brand)
Modafinil (Provigil) (generic)
Modafinil (Provigil) contraindications
Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person shouldnot take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditionsor if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Modafinil (Provigil) will not be safe for you to take.
Allergic to armodafinil (Nuvigil)
What is the latest news about Modafinil (Provigil)?
Modafinil (Provigil) images
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References
starsBest studies we found
Cephalon, LLC. (2022). PROVIGIL- modafinil tablet [package insert]. DailyMed.
Dailey, M. W., et al. (2023). Mania. StatPearls.
Kim, D. (2012). Practical use and risk of Modafinil, a novel waking drug. Environmental health and Toxicology.
View All References (4)
expand_more
Menza, M. A., et al. (2000). Modafinil augmentation of antidepressant treatment in depression. The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry.
Roth, T., et al. (2007). Evaluation of the Safety of Modafinil for Treatment of Excessive Sleepiness. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.
Tseng, Y. L., et al. (2005). Detection of modafinil in human urine by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis.
Wickwire, E. M., et al. (2016). Shift work and shift work sleep disorder. Chest.
GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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