In 2018, the “smart drug” market was valued at roughly $1.96 billion. This is due to the increasing demand for brain boosters in today’s highly competitive world. Impressively, armodafinil brands such as ArmodaXL and Waklert have become the preferred “smart drugs” for most nootropic enthusiasts. Both meds are extremely effective, but which one is better for you? They are designed with the same active compound but have a few distinctive features that significantly set them apart.
This comprehensive guide compares ArmodaXL vs. Waklert and covers their dosage, benefits, & side effects, as well as where you can buy them affordably.
What Is Waklert?
Waklert is an armodafinil-based nootropic made by Sun Pharmaceuticals, an Indian-based firm that is listed among the top generic pharma companies in the world [1]. Like any armodafinil brand, it’s used to manage extreme daytime drowsiness due to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), narcolepsy, & shift work sleep disorder (SWSD). The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved it for this use in 2007.
Besides, it’s frequently prescribed off-label for many health issues including fatigue caused by cancer & multiple sclerosis and memory decline caused by Alzheimer’s disease. It’s also used to treat jet lag, depression, post-anesthesia grogginess, Parkinson’s disease, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), & others.
Furthermore, healthy individuals use Waklert for its ability to boost brain function and improve productivity. It works by heightening concentrations of histamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, glutamate, dopamine, & orexin in the brain. Increased levels of these chemicals cause improvements in most cognitive functions.
Armodafinil-based meds, including Waklert, have a longer half-life than modafinil. In general, armodafinil’s peak effects are felt within 1 to 2 hours after ingestion, & they gradually disappear over the following 14 to 15 hours. It’s generally safe and well-tolerated if used properly. However, do well to consult a doctor before starting treatment with it.
What Is ArmodaXL?
Like Waklert, ArmodaXL contains armodafinil as its active component & has similar treatment indications & off-label uses. Its manufacturer, HOF Pharmaceuticals Ltd., is a leading Indian plant endorsed by the World Health Organization & Good Manufacturing Practice.
Healthy populations also use it as a super potent cognitive augmenter & productivity booster. In comparison with Waklert and other armodafinil brands, ArmodaXL offers 5% better absorption and thus a faster onset of effects. In addition, it has 30% higher peak effects than similar meds, making it a bit more potent.
By augmenting levels of certain neurotransmitters, ArmodaXL intensifies the sleep-wake cycle and ameliorates brain function with rewards such as boosted focus, enhanced energy, improved attention & decision-making, and increased alertness. Although it’s generally safe, it’s advisable to consult a doctor before using this medicine.
Compare Waklert vs. ArmodaXL
Although both drugs have the same active component and thus share a lot in common, some distinctive features are still there. Here’s a table that gives a clear view of the similarities & differences between Waklert & ArmodaXL:
Brand Name | Waklert | ArmodaXL |
What is the active ingredient? | armodafinil | armodafinil |
What is it used for? | treat symptoms of OSA, SWSD, and narcolepsy; improve cognitive function and productivity | treat symptoms of OSA, SWSD, and narcolepsy; improve cognitive function and productivity |
What is the dose strength of the med? | 150 mg | 150 mg |
What is the half-life of the med? | up to 15 hours | up to 15 hours |
Is this a controlled substance? | yes | yes |
Is there a risk of withdrawal with this med? | extremely low | extremely low |
Does it have the potential for misuse? | yes | yes |
What is the typical length of therapy? | long-term | long-term |
Besides being made by different manufacturers, one major difference between ArmodaXL & Waklert is that ArmodaXL features higher potency than its counterpart. As mentioned earlier, it has 30% higher peak effects, which means it’s a bit stronger than other similar brands including Waklert. Also, as ArmodaXL is a slightly improved generic version of armodafinil, its effects kick in faster compared to Waklert. However, they both are high-quality meds that give excellent results.
Where to Buy Armodafinil Generics OTC?
Because it’s quite complicated to order health products directly from their manufacturers, you may turn to the following nootropic e-drugstores that source their armodafinil-based meds straight from their makers. The given vendors operate legally and have a proven track record of providing excellent customer service. Most countries worldwide permit the use of armodafinil products only with a prescription. However, mentioned e-pharmacies ship “smart drugs” to numerous locations regardless of whether you have a prescription or not.
ModafinilXL.com, BuyArmodafinil.com, BuyModafinilOnline.com, Afinil.com, and FreeModafinil.org are trusted vendors you can rely on. They sell nootropic products at the manufacturing cost. By the way, their main similarity is the same “smart drug” pricing. More info about these vendors is given in the following table:
ModafinilXL | BuyArmodafinil | BuyModafinilOnline | Afinil | FreeModafinil | |
Is the e-pharmacy legit? | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
Does it source its meds from FDA-approved drugmakers? | yes, it cooperates with Sun Pharma, HAB Pharma, Centurion Laboratories, HOF Pharmaceuticals Ltd., etc. | yes, it collaborates with Sun Pharma, HAB Pharma, Centurion Laboratories, HOF Pharmaceuticals Ltd., etc. | yes, it cooperates with Sun Pharma, HAB Pharma, Centurion Laboratories, HOF Pharmaceuticals Ltd., etc. | yes, it cooperates with Sun Pharma, HAB Pharma, Centurion Laboratories, HOF Pharmaceuticals Ltd., etc. | yes, it works with Sun Pharma, HAB Pharma, Centurion Laboratories, HOF Pharmaceuticals Ltd., etc. |
Does it offer free trial tablets? | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
Which payment options does the vendor accept? | Bitcoin (a 20% discount), Poli, PayPal, major credit/debit cards, e-Check | major credit/debit cards, PayPal, Poli, Bill Pay, & SEPA bank transfer, Bitcoin (a 21% discount) | PayPal, major credit/debit cards, Bitcoin (a 23% discount) | e-Check, major credit/debit cards, PayPal, Bitcoin (a 24% discount) | PayPal, major credit/debit cards, Poli, Bill Pay, Bitcoin (a 22% discount) |
Is free shipping available? | yes, free express shipping on $180+ orders and free standard shipping on $80+ orders | yes, free express shipping on $180+ orders and free standard shipping on $130+ orders | yes, free express shipping on $180+ orders and free standard shipping on $130+ orders | yes, free express shipping on $180+ orders and free standard shipping on $130+ orders | yes, free express shipping on $180+ orders and free standard shipping on $130+ orders |
Does it offer discounts, coupons, & profitable deals? | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
Does it offer a full refund or free reshipment in case of any failed delivery? | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
The mentioned e-pharmacies have similar shipping times. Please check each vendor’s other shipping methods & the delivery time + all benefits they come with on their websites.
Dosage Guide for ArmodaXL vs. Waklert
The doses of these nootropics are similar because they both are made using the same active ingredient. A 150 mg tab is the standard dose of armodafinil brands. For safe med’s administration, you need to consult a medical professional first to evaluate your health & determine the dosage that’s safe for you.
To treat narcolepsy & OSA, take an ArmodaXL or Waklert tab early in the morning. For SWSD, ingest the tablet one hour before the start of the shift. For other off-label uses of these “smart drugs,” take either of them as prescribed by your physician. Administer the med with a glass of water, with or without food – this depends on your preferences. However, don’t take more than a single dose per day to avoid negative reactions [2]. If you are diagnosed with geriatric or hepatic impairment, a doctor may prescribe you a lower armodafinil dose, i.e., 75 mg (cutting 150 mg in half).
Always follow the doctor’s advice & observe the drug package instructions.
What Are the Side Effects?
Both meds have the same negative effects. Based on how you stick to the prescription, your sex, weight, age, & response to the med, you may experience some mild or severe side effects. Most of the mild adverse reactions of armodafinil meds normally fade away after some time without any remedy.
Below are some common negative effects of ArmodaXL and Waklert [3]:
- dizziness;
- a stuffy/runny nose;
- nausea;
- head pain;
- indigestion;
- difficulty sleeping;
- backache;
- diarrhea.
Some rare but serious adverse reactions may occur. See your doctor instantly if you experience any of the following signs:
- suicidal thoughts;
- hives;
- chest pain;
- abnormal heartbeat;
- hyperactive behavior;
- skin rash;
- mental problems;
- trouble breathing.
ArmodaXL & Waklert may also induce other negative effects. It’s paramount to consult a doctor before using either of the “smart drugs.” A healthcare provider should assess your health (specifically liver/heart disease) before deciding to prescribe you any armodafinil medicine.
Are Waklert vs. ArmodaXL Interactions Different?
No, ArmodaXL vs. Waklert interactions are similar because they share the same active component, armodafinil. Both nootropics may interact with some meds in a way that can make one or more of the drugs coadministered ineffective or even increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Armodafinil-based meds interact with the following drug classes:
- anti-seizure meds;
- monoamine oxidase inhibitors;
- certain antibiotics;
- blood thinners;
- CYP2C19 & CYP3A4/5 substrates;
- street drugs;
- some antifungals;
- birth control tabs.
Besides, armodafinil negatively interacts with alcohol. Don’t mix both substances to avoid any complications. Most foods work well with both brands, but fatty foods can lessen the absorption rate of the active component & thus slow its onset of action. We advise not to ingest armodafinil meds if pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding. Patients with liver disease, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, bipolar disorder, renal dysfunction, and seizure disorders should consult a doctor before taking either of the armodafinil-based drugs.
Are These Nootropics Addictive?
Addiction is a chronic condition characterized by a pattern of med abuse & continued drug use despite its negative effects on health & well-being. As a stimulant-like med, armodafinil affects the brain in a way comparable to stimulants like cocaine, methamphetamine, & other prescription meds like Adderall & Ritalin. However, it’s generally thought to be less addictive & has a much lower potential for abuse [4].
Even so, armodafinil brands like Waklert & ArmodaXL can still be misused for their effects. Some individuals can become addicted to such meds when they use them in high doses. Abusing armodafinil can also lead to higher tolerance + med dependence. Tolerance happens when the body gets used to a med dose & is less influenced by it. This can require you to increase your dose to achieve the same effects. The armodafinil abuse disorder can cause physical & psychological signs regarded as withdrawal with any attempt to lower or quit the med.
ArmodaXL vs. Waklert: Which Is Better?
ArmodaXL is slightly more powerful than Waklert. As per the manufacturer, it has a stronger peak effect and a faster onset of action compared to other armodafinil-based meds including Waklert. However, this doesn’t mean Waklert is worse than its counterpart. Both drugs work the same way and produce the same results. You may try both meds and see how they affect your body.
Note that people are different, and they respond to medications differently. Always consult a doctor or a healthcare provider before starting treatment with either of the armodafinil brands.
References
- Sun Pharma. Retrieved: October 26, 2022. Wikipedia.org.
- Nuvigil (Armodafinil) – Side Effects, Interactions, Uses, Dosage, Warnings. Retrieved: October 26, 2022. Everydayhealth.com.
- Armodafinil: MedlinePlus Drug Information. Retrieved: October 26, 2022. Medlineplus.gov.
- Armodafinil – An Overview. Retrieved: October 26, 2022. Sciencedirect.com.