Sunosi vs. Armodafinil: What Is the Difference Between the Drugs?

In a world where maintaining peak productivity is vital, meds like Sunosi and armodafinil offer distinct advantages, whether for work, study, or simply staying awake during demanding times. But which med is better than the other? Indeed, the choice between the two meds depends on various factors, including their effects, dosages, and interactions with other substances.

This guide provides a thorough comparison of Sunosi vs armodafinil, detailing everything from their mechanism of action to where they can be purchased online.

What Is Sunosi?

Sunosi (solriamfetol) is a relatively new medication designed to treat outrageous daytime drowsiness in adults with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or narcolepsy. Endorsed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on March 20, 2019, and classified as a Schedule IV drug by the USA Drug Enforcement Agency in June 2019, it has quickly become recognized for its effectiveness. Manufactured by Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Sunosi works by inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters that regulate wakefulness [1][2].

While it helps improve wakefulness over several hours without causing the “crash” linked to other stimulants, it’s crucial to note that Sunosi does not cure the underlying causes of OSA. Patients are strongly advised to continue using other therapies, like CPAP, alongside this medication.

What Is Armodafinil?

Armodafinil, available under the brand name Nuvigil by Cephalon, is a well-regarded eugeroic medication widely prescribed for conditions like narcolepsy, OSA, and shift work sleep disorder (SWSD). Approved by the FDA in 2007, armodafinil is an enantiopure form of modafinil, containing only the R-enantiomer, which provides longer-lasting effects [3]. Often dubbed the “smart tab,” it promotes wakefulness without the overstimulation that traditional stimulants can cause, making it less likely to lead to jitteriness or dependence.

Armodafinil works by modulating brain chemicals such as dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, orexin, and histamine—key neurotransmitters involved in regulating wakefulness and boosting cognition. Dopamine plays a central role in pleasure, motivation, and cognitive tasks like planning and memory, while histamine supports learning, motivation, and memory. Serotonin regulates mood, sleep, digestion, and cognitive functions. When serotonin levels are balanced, you tend to feel focused, emotionally stable, happier, & calmer. Conversely, low serotonin levels are linked to depression and other mood disorders.

Orexin also plays a role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle, ensuring balanced wakefulness. By increasing levels of these neurotransmitters, armodafinil enhances several dimensions of cognitive functions, including memory, attention, reasoning, problem-solving, language comprehension, perception, and planning/decision-making.

While primarily used to treat sleep disturbances, armodafinil is also taken off-label to manage conditions like depression, somnolence, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar depression augmentation, Parkinson’s disease, myotonic muscular dystrophy, and chronic fatigue [4]. It’s frequently used by healthy individuals seeking a cognitive edge, particularly for extended periods of brainpower effects and heightened productivity, often making it a popular “smart tab” for academic or professional purposes.

Compare Sunosi and Armodafinil

When comparing Sunosi and armodafinil, it’s clear that both meds are effective at promoting wakefulness, but they work differently in the brain. Both meds combat excessive daytime sleepiness, but their mechanisms of action differ, which leads to varied effects on patients. Let’s compare the difference between both drugs in the table below:

Drug	Armodafinil	Sunosi (Solriamfetol)
Dose strength	oral tab (150 mg, 250 mg)	oral tab (75 mg, 150 mg)
Drug class	although it’s a eugeroic, it’s classed as a stimulant, often referred to as a eugeroic med	dopamine & norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (DNRI). It’s not a stimulant but a wake-fostering agent
How to take	once daily, typically in the morning, for treating sleep disorders conditions; administered as needed for productivity & cognitive-heightening effects (approx. 45 minutes to an hour for a scheduled task); avoid taking late to prevent insomnia.	take it once daily, immediately after waking up; avoid taking it within 9 hours of your intended bedtime, as it can make falling asleep more difficult if taken too late; dosage is determined by your medical condition and how you respond to treatment.
What is the med used for?	narcolepsy, OSA, SWSD, & several other health conditions; as a cognitive augmenter.	narcolepsy, OSA
What is it also known as?	armodafinil (Nuvigil®) & generics	solriamfetol. No generic availability
What is it good for?	memory; motivation; alertness; mental focus; mental acuity; energy; learning; agility; planning & decision-making; cognition.	heightens brain function, quality of life, and work productivity in those suffering from OSA and excessive daytime sleepiness [5].
With what does it stack well?	Phenylpiracetam; Noopept; fish oil; Choline; Piracetam; Phenibut; Bacopa monnieri; ashwagandha; L-Theanine, etc.	no known stacking combinations
What’s its half-life?	15 hours	7.1 hours
Is this a controlled substance?	yes. Schedule IV controlled med. Can be a target for abuse	yes. Schedule IV med
Is it efficacious?	excellent	good
Does this drug have misuse potential?	yes. It’s prohibited by WADA	less abuse potential & physical dependence potential [6]
What instructions should you follow?	take with or without food; mixing it with a fat meal may result in a little longer time to start functioning; most suitable to avoid alcohol.	take with or without food; should not be taken within nine hours of planned bedtime.
Is there a risk of withdrawal with this med?	none	very low risk
What is the typical length of remedy?	long-term remedy	long-term treatment
What is the pregnancy category of this med?	Category C. Risk can’t be ruled out	summary unavailable
Which drugs interact with this med	interact with a total of 496 known drugs	interact with a total of 81 known meds
What diseases interact with this med?	psychiatric disorders cardiovascular dysfunction liver dysfunction alcoholism psychiatric complications	cardiovascular toxicities psychiatric effects renal dysfunction

Moreover, solriamfetol is classified as a stimulant, albeit one with a low affinity for the norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin transporters in the human brain. It functions as a dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Armodafinil serves as a mild psychostimulant. Both meds exhibit comparable side effects, which can include anxiety, headaches, nausea, and insomnia. Similar to the “smart tab,” Sunosi begins to exert its effects within one hour of ingestion, making it a quick-acting option for promoting wakefulness.

Sunosi vs Armodafinil: Difference Between…

The distinctions between Sunosi and armodafinil have been detailed in the preceding table, highlighting both their similarities and differences. While both meds come with certain limitations, they also exhibit varying levels of potential for abuse. Unfortunately, without head-to-head studies, it’s challenging to draw direct comparisons regarding their effectiveness in promoting wakefulness. Armodafinil, however, is recognized for its robust safety profile and cognitive-enhancing properties. This has made it popular among individuals seeking to boost productivity and cognitive performance.

Let’s explore some essential differences concerning dosages, negative effects, and interactions with other substances.

Dosages

Armodafinil is available in doses of 150 mg & 250 mg tabs, whereas Sunosi is offered in 75 mg and 150 mg. It’s paramount to observe your physician’s directions, including those outlined in the med leaflet. Dosages may be adjusted by your physician based on your needs, and both meds can be taken with or without food.

For Sunosi, the dosage may be increased after three days, depending on how well your body tolerates it and its effectiveness. However, it’s generally recommended to maintain a daily intake of 75 mg to 150 mg, with 150 mg being the maximum limit. Sunosi is usually taken once in the morning after waking up. If a starting dose of 37.5 mg is prescribed, you’ll need to split a 75 mg tablet. Similarly, armodafinil users might also need to divide the 150 mg tablet based on their prescription.

For conditions like OSA or narcolepsy, a typical recommendation is to take a standard 150 mg dose of armodafinil once each morning. In the case of SWSD, cognitive augmentation, or productivity tasks, it should be taken about an hour before your shift starts or planned tasks. For other conditions, consult with a physician to determine the dosage and if it’s good for your health.

If you find that either Sunosi or armodafinil is not delivering the desired effects, it’s essential to consult your physician regarding possible dosing adjustments. Always keep track of any adverse effects.

Additionally, regular monitoring of blood pressure and heart rate is essential while on these meds. Both Sunosi and armodafinil carry a risk of dependence; misuse can lead to addiction, overdose, or even life-threatening situations. Always confer with your medic before making any modifications to your dosage or stopping the medication altogether. As a cognitive enhancer, adhere strictly to the prescribed regimen.

Side Effects and Dangers

Some of the side effects linked with armodafinil may last for varying lengths of time but often diminish with continued use. These side effects can typically be categorized into common, rare, or related to overdose or allergic reactions. Commonly reported negative effects include:

• nausea;
• insomnia;
• dizziness;
• headaches.

In rare instances, users might experience more serious reactions, such as:

• anxiety;
• depression;
• hallucinations.

This isn’t a comprehensive list [7]. Allergic reactions, which can manifest as severe rashes, are also a concern. Additionally, dizziness or blurred vision may occur, so it’s advisable to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after taking armodafinil.

Sunosi can lead to its own set of negative effects, with the most commonly reported being:

• headaches;
• nausea;
• decreased appetite;
• anxiety;
• sleep disturbances.

While these aren’t an exhaustive list, promptly discuss with your physician any adverse reactions. Serious negative effects can include increased blood pressure and heart rate, which can elevate the risk of cardiovascular events like heart attacks or strokes. Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential during Sunosi treatment, and adjustments may be required if high blood pressure persists.

Mental health symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, insomnia, and agitation may also develop [8].

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to notify your physician instantly.

Interaction with Food, Alcohol & Other Meds

Before starting treatment with Sunosi or armodafinil, disclose your entire medical history to your physician, especially concerning high blood pressure, kidney issues, heart problems (such as arrhythmias), and any mental health concerns, including a personal or family history of substance use disorders.

Certainly, Sunosi & armodafinil can interact with a wide array of meds, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Be transparent about all meds you are currently taking or have recently discontinued. At the time of writing this guide, research indicates that Sunosi interacts with 81 different meds, while armodafinil has interactions with 496 drugs. The nature of these interactions can range from minor to significant [9].

Armodafinil interactions can include those involving CYP3A4/5 and CYP2C19 substrates, MAO inhibitors, warfarin, birth control meds, and central nervous system stimulants [10]. It’s especially important to avoid MAO inhibitors when using Sunosi, as combining these can lead to severe and potentially fatal drug interactions [11]. Be cautious of mixing Sunosi with meds that may increase blood pressure or heart rate.

Combining the “smart drug” with alcohol is generally discouraged, as this combination can elevate the risk of dizziness, impaired judgment, and drowsiness. While the specific interactions between Sunosi and alcohol aren’t well understood, consuming alcohol can counteract the benefits of solriamfetol, the active ingredient in Sunosi, which is intended to alleviate sleepiness. If you’ve got a history of alcohol dependency or misuse, refrain from taking Sunosi.

There are no specific food interactions linked to Sunosi; however, consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking armodafinil may augment its effects or negative effects. Always consult your physician regarding any food interactions to ensure safe use.

Where to Buy These Pills Online?

If you’re on the hunt for a “smart tab” online, choose trustworthy e-pharmacies that deliver quality meds sourced from licensed manufacturers. Beware of unscrupulous sites that might offer counterfeit drugs or fail to deliver after taking your money.

When seeking armodafinil online, it’s wise to evaluate the credibility and quality of the meds available. Online reviews, particularly on platforms like Trustpilot and Yotpo, can provide valuable insight. Some of the top choices for reliable armodafinil include BuyModafinilOnline.com (BMO), ModafinilXL.com (MXL), ModafinilUSA.com, and HighStreetPharma.com (HSP).

BMO, ModafinilUSA, & MXL stand out by offering free trial samples of the “smart tab,” as well as a diverse range of generic armodafinil & modafinil products, making it easier to find exactly what you need. These vendors also offer their drugs at the manufacturing cost. HighStreetPharma is also another vendor offering “smart tab” and other health products, helping customers to get quality health products, including armodafinil.

These four vendors also provide free shipping options, depending on your order total, and promise a reshipment or full refund in case of delivery issues. Plus, their payment methods are flexible and user-friendly.

For those looking to save even more, using cryptocurrency is a smart choice. BMO offers a 23% discount, while ModafinilUSA and ModafinilXL offer a 20% discount. HSP offers 5% off and a whopping 30% extra tabs with ordering nootropics like armodafinil & paying by crypto. Additionally, BuyModafinilOnline, ModafinilUSA, and MXL frequently have promotional deals and coupons, so always check for potential savings.

These recommended e-pharmacies also boast quick shipping times for armodafinil, so be sure to review their shipping policies to confirm they can send your order to your address. Our suggested vendors excel in customer service, offer competitive prices on “smart tabs,” and present various payment options alongside attractive coupons and fast shipping with a satisfaction guarantee.

It’s worth mentioning that while these vendors specialize in armodafinil, they don’t carry Sunosi. If you need to obtain Sunosi, consider purchasing it via Amazon or from other pharmacies that stock it.

The Verdict: Sunosi vs Armodafinil

When comparing Sunosi vs armodafinil, both serve a crucial role in managing excessive daytime sleepiness, yet their applications differ in scope. Sunosi is excellent for addressing wakefulness in those suffering from OSA or narcolepsy, but its effects are primarily limited to treating these specific conditions. It promotes alertness for around 9 hours, making it ideal for short-term wakefulness without the added mental stimulation.

Besides, armodafinil offers far more than just keeping users awake. It’s a well-known “smart drug” with a longer duration of action—lasting up to 15 hours—and a reputation for boosting cognitive functions and productivity. This makes it particularly appealing for individuals seeking to enhance mental clarity alongside treating sleep disorders. Millions of people worldwide use the “smart drug” to manage conditions like narcolepsy but also for its cognitive-boosting benefits, whether in professional environments or academic settings. Sunosi is just a wake-fostering agent.

References

1. Jazz Pharmaceuticals Announces U.S. FDA Approval of Sunosi™ (solriamfetol) for Excessive Daytime Sleepiness Associated with Narcolepsy or Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Published: March 20, 2019. Investor.jazzpharma.com.
2. Drug Approval Package: Sunosi. Published: April 29, 2019. Accessdata.fda.gov.
3. Armodafinil. Retrieved: September 28, 2024. Wikipedia.org.
4. Armodafinil (docx). Retrieved: September 28, 2024. Pbm.va.gov.
5. Effects of Solriamfetol on Quality-of-Life Measures from a 12-Week Phase 3 Randomized Controlled Trial. By Terri E. Weaver, Christopher L. Drake, Heike Benes, et al. Published: April 30, 2020. Atsjournals.org.
6. Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (pdf). Retrieved: September 28, 2024. Assets.publishing.service.gov.uk.
7. Armodafinil Side Effects. Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Retrieved: September 28, 2024. Drugs.com.
8. How to Take SUNOSI. Retrieved: September 28, 2024. Sunosi.com.
9. Comparing Armodafinil vs Sunosi. Retrieved: September 28, 2024. Drugs.com.
10. Armodafinil- armodafinil tablet (pdf). Retrieved: September 28, 2024. Dailymed.nlm.nih.gov.
11. Sunosi (solriamfetol) – Uses, Side Effects, and More. Retrieved: September 28, 2024. Webmd.com.