Countless modafinil- and armodafinil-based βsmart drugsβ are available on the market, each with promises of great benefits. If youβre having a hard time deciding which one to choose, this article is for you. It compares them all, shedding light on their benefits, side effects, and unique properties so you can determine which one better fits your lifestyle.
After reading, you will also find out the best places you can get your chosen medication at the best possible price.
Table of Contents
Which Nootropic Should I Buy?
Today, millions of people around the world turn to nootropics to enhance cognition, boost motivation, increase creativity, or treat a sleep disorder. The sheer number of people who use these drugs has surged over the years and is on a steady rise because they really work. But many newbies who intend to start taking them usually have one big question in mind: which one should I buy?
ModaXL, Modvigil, Artvigil, and ArmodaXL are some of the most popular modafinil- and armodafinil-based generics, and they are worth considering when it comes to selecting a product. Letβs take a look at the individual drugs:
ModaXL
This is currently the bestselling modafinil-based nootropic in most online pharmacies. It is safe, well-tolerated, effective, and has a relatively low-risk potential for side effects. But what makes it stand out is the fact that it is more potent and has a faster onset of effects compared to most other generic modafinil brands.
Modvigil
Modvigil is a modafinil-based nootropic that offers great value for money. It is ideal for anyone looking to try modafinil for the first time without breaking the bank. It is equally safe and well-tolerated, and most people who use it find it effective.
ArmodaXL
Like its modafinil-based counterpart, ArmodaXL is one of the bestselling armodafinil-based nootropics in many online pharmacies. It is more potent than several other armodafinil generics and has a faster onset of effects. It is ideal for anyone whose job requires long hours of concentration. It is equally safe, well-tolerated, and has a low potential for side effects.
Artvigil
This is a low-cost armodafinil variant with slightly milder effects that makes it ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a good nightβs sleep even after using a nootropic to enhance cognition. It is safe and well-tolerated.
Compare Modafinil vs. Armodafinil
Modafinil belongs to a class of drugs called wakefulness-promoting medications. It is available in two dose strengths of 100 mg and 200 mg. It is safe, well-tolerated, and has an incredibly low potential for addiction. Because of its low risk of causing side effects and low potential for dependence, researchers at Oxford and Harvard Universities deem it the βworldβs first safe βsmart drug [1][2].ββ
Armodafinil also belongs to a class of drugs called wakefulness-promoting medications. It is available in 4 dose strengths of 50 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, and 250 mg. It is safe, well-tolerated, and equally has a low potential for addiction. However, it is more potent than modafinil. Studies suggest that it is 1.33 times stronger than racemic modafinil. To put this in perspective, its 150 mg dose provides the same effects as 200 mg modafinil [3][4]. But this in no way disparages modafinilβs use.
Both drugs are effective and appeal to different individuals. Since armodafinil provides a stronger effect, it will serve individuals whose jobs are mentally demanding and require long hours of concentration. On the other hand, modafinil is a great place for nootropic newbies to start since it produces a milder effect.
In a nutshell, if you plan on trying nootropics out, start with modafinil, and if it proves ineffective, you may go ahead to use armodafinil. But these medications are classified as Schedule IV controlled substances.
Consequently, it is advisable to consult your doctor before starting treatment with either of them.
What Is Modafinil?
Modafinil is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant with wakefulness-promoting properties. It was developed by French neurophysiologist, professor Michel Jouvet, and Lafon Laboratories, and used as an experimental treatment for narcolepsy in France in 1986.
Following its success in eliminating the symptoms with minimal risk of adverse effects and low potential for addiction, especially compared to other drugs like Adderall, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) adopted it as a treatment for narcolepsy in 1998. Later in 2003, it extended the approval to cover treatment for two other sleep disorders: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and shift work sleep disorder (SWSD) [5].
Although it wasnβt part of the plan during formulation, modafinil turned out with cognitive-enhancing benefits. The FDA doesnβt approve its use for this purpose, but healthy individuals continue to take it off-label to enhance cognition because it works. As a cognitive enhancer, it is believed to:
- increase alertness;
- increase focus;
- boost memory;
- increase mental processing speed.
Today, more people use the drug for its cognitive-enhancing purpose than to treat sleep disorders. College students, professors, computer programmers, celebrities, engineers, and other professionals from all walks of life are not left out.
About Modafinil Generics
Generally, modafinil is marketed under the brand name Provigil. However, since the patent that protected it expired in 2001, it became available in generic versions [6]. Several pharmaceutical companies have come up with their own versions of the drug, but so far, ModaXL, Modvigil, and Modalert remain some of the most popular ones available. Let’s explore these drugs, their manufacturers, dosage, possible side effects, and interactions.
ModaXL Review
ModaXL is probably the most recent generic version of modafinil. It is produced by HOF Pharmaceuticals β an Indian-based pharmaceutical company known for producing high-quality generic and brand-name meds. Like its brand-name counterpart, it is available in 100 mg and 200 mg strength.
ModaXL is generally better than Modvigil, Modalert, and several other generics.
Its peak effect is up to 40% stronger, and its absorption rate is 5% higher; this translates to higher potency and a slightly faster onset of effects.
Whatβs more, it comes in special aluminum packaging that keeps the pills fresh for a long time. They have an expiration period of 3 years β longer than most other generics.
The drug is safe, well-tolerated, and has a low potential for addiction, but it is not without side effects β all drugs have side effects. However, they rarely occur, and when they do, they tend to go away without treatment. The common ones include:
- nausea;
- upset stomach;
- runny nose;
- insomnia;
- headache;
- dizziness;
- drowsiness.
It is worth noting that more serious adverse effects can also occur, especially if the drug is overdosed or misused in other ways. The possible adverse effects include ringing in one or both ears, hallucinations, depression, mood swings, and confusion. They can become life-threatening if left untreated. Be sure to seek urgent medical attention if you notice any of them.
While using modafinil or any modafinil-based medication such as ModaXL, Modvigil, etc., it is important to watch out for interactions. These substances can interact negatively with alcohol, food, herbs, or other substances in ways that can affect the efficacy of one or more of the drugs or increase the risk of side effects. ModaXL interacts with the following medications:
- clopidogrel;
- deflazacort;
- rifampin/Rifadin;
- bosutinib;
- antifungal medications like itraconazole/Sporanox or ketoconazole/Nizoral;
- sedatives like midazolam/Versed, triazolam/Halcion, or diazepam/Valium;
- poppers (street drugs) such as methamphetamine.
Alcohol can cause you to black out; do not take it shortly before or after taking the drug. Also, grapefruit and grapefruit juice is known to increase the concentration of the drug in the blood, which can increase the risk of severe side effects. Seek medical advice from your doctor or healthcare provider before starting treatment with any drug.
Modvigil Review
Modvigil is a popular modafinil generic brand that once stood as a bestseller in many online pharmacies; this was before ModaXL was produced. It is manufactured by Cephalon and is available in two strengths: 100 mg and 200 mg. It is equally an effective treatment option for OSA, SWSD, and narcolepsy, and it has impressive cognitive-enhancing benefits. It is cheaper than ModaXL probably because of its slightly slower onset of action and milder effect. Major Modvigil benefits include:
- 10+ hours of laser-sharp focus;
- enhanced memory;
- increased motivation;
- increased alertness;
- faster mental processing speed.
This drug is generally safe and unlikely to cause serious discomfort if used correctly. Because it shares the same active ingredient as ModaXL, its side effects and possible interactions are identical.
Modafinil drugs are contraindicated in pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers, as well as individuals below the age of 17.
What Is Armodafinil?
Armodafinil is a CNS stimulant with wakefulness-promoting and cognitive-enhancing effects. It was produced by Cephalon Inc. in 2007, and the FDA approved it to treat narcolepsy, SWSD, and OSA. It is very similar to modafinil in terms of benefits, side effects, and interactions, except that it produces a stronger effect.
Armodafinil is more commonly used off-label as a cognitive enhancer than it is for medical reasons. It is safe, well-tolerated, and effective, but it may not be safe for certain individuals. It is not to be used by pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, people with certain underlying health conditions, and those below the age of 17. Do well to seek advice from a doctor before starting treatment with this drug.
About Armodafinil Generics
Nuvigil is available in generic versions such as Artvigil, ArmodaXL, Armodavinil, etc., that cost considerably less but offer the same level of benefits [7]. Let’s take a look at two popular generics making waves on the market.
ArmodaXL Review
ArmodaXL is probably the most recent armodafinil-based medication available on the market. It is produced by HOF Pharmaceuticals and is commonly available in 150 mg strength. It is generally better than Artvigil and several other armodafinil generics because of its new improvements. Just like its modafinil-based counterpart, ModaXL, it has stronger effects and a faster onset of action because its peak effect is stronger by up to 30% and its absorption rate is higher by 5%.
Although the drug has a very low risk of side effects, it might occur in certain situations. First-time users may experience mild ones such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, insomnia, and drowsiness. However, they disappear as the body acclimatizes to the drug, often without treatment. More serious adverse effects, such as depression, mood swings, and hallucinations, among others, may occur if it is used incorrectly. It is advisable to seek urgent medical attention if any of these adverse effects occur, as they can become life-threatening.
ArmodaXL interacts negatively with alcohol, grapefruit & grapefruit juice, and the following drugs [8]:
- clonazepam;
- omeprazole;
- gabapentin;
- Lexapro (escitalopram);
- Levothyroxine;
- Cymbalta (duloxetine).
Note that taking alcohol concomitantly with the drug can cause a blackout. On the other hand, grapefruit and grapefruit juice can increase the risk of adverse effects. Avoid such mixtures if you intend to get the best out of this drug.
Most people who take this drug have reported noticing increased focus, alertness, and ultimately increased productivity. It is very likely to work for you if you use it correctly.
Artvigil Review
Artvigil is yet another popular generic version of Nuvigil. It is manufactured by a reputable and trustworthy Indian-based pharmaceutical company called HAB Pharma. It contains 100% pure armodafinil as its active ingredient, thus it provides the same benefits and has similar side effects and interactions. Possible side effects may include:
- insomnia;
- nausea;
- runny nose;
- dizziness;
- drowsiness.
Using this drug incorrectly may lead to severe side effects such as mood swings, hallucination, poor or complete loss of vision in one or both eyes, ringing in one or both ears, etc. Seek urgent medical attention if you notice any of these adverse effects, as they can become life-threatening, especially if left unchecked.
Artvigil interacts with the same drugs and substances as ArmodaXL, as they contain the same active ingredient.
Where to Buy Generic Modafinil and Armodafinil Online?
Modafinil and armodafinil are legal in the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and several other parts of the world. However, they are classified as Schedule IV controlled substances, or prescription-only meds. Consequently, while it is legal to buy and take them for personal use, it can only be done with a prescription.
But doctors only prescribe these drugs for their medical use β to treat narcolepsy, OSA, or SWSD. The implication is that it will be impossible for healthy individuals looking to use it for cognitive enhancement to get one. To go around this challenge, βsmart drugβ enthusiasts typically buy the pills from online pharmacies that ship out of countries that have relaxed laws regarding modafinil and armodafinil use, sale, and purchase.
At this point, it is worth noting that buying drugs online is risky because many vendors sell counterfeit meds. Because you asked, we compiled a list of some e-pharmacies you can bank on to deliver high-quality modafinil- and armodafinil-based drugs to your doorstep. They include Afinil.com, ModafinilXL, BuyModa, BuyModafinilOnline, BuyArmodafinil, FreeModafinil, and HighStreetPharma.
Here is a table displaying the unique features each of these pharmacies possesses.
Online Pharmacies | Genuine Refund Policy | Flexible Payment Options (Credit Card & Bitcoin) | Customer Service | Free Samples for New Customers |
Afinil.com | βοΈ | MasterCard, Visa, AmEx, Zelle, e-Check, PayPal, Bitcoin, ETH, and several other cryptos | βοΈβοΈβοΈ | βοΈ |
ModafinilXL.com | βοΈ | Visa, MasterCard, PayPal, AmEx, e-Check, Bitcoin, and other cryptocurrencies | βοΈβοΈβοΈ | βοΈ |
BuyModa.org | βοΈ | MasterCard, Zelle, BPay (Australia), AmEx, SWIFT wire transfers, PayID (Australia), PP, and Bitcoin | βοΈβοΈ | β |
BuyModafinilOnline.com | βοΈ | E-Check, MasterCard, PayPal, AmEx, Zelle, Bitcoin, ETH, and other cryptocurrencies | βοΈβοΈβοΈ | βοΈ |
BuyArmodafinil.com | βοΈ | MasterCard, e-Check, PayPal, AmEx, Zelle, Bitcoin, ETH, and other cryptocurrencies | βοΈβοΈβοΈ | βοΈ |
FreeModafinil.org | βοΈ | MasterCard, AmEx, PayPal, Zelle, e-Check, ETH, Bitcoin, and other cryptocurrencies | βοΈβοΈβοΈ | βοΈ |
HighStreetPharma.com | βοΈ | PayPal, Credit/debit cards, crypto, e-Check, and gift cards | βοΈβοΈ | β |
These pharmacies all have a difference in their prices. It will be profitable for you to do a price comparison so you can determine the vendor that will give you the best bang for your buck.
Safe Inexpensive Modafinil
Without beating around the bush, if youβre looking for a modafinil-based drug that is not only safe, well-tolerated, and effective but inexpensive as well, Modvigil should be your pick. Many people who use it find it effective, and there is a very high chance that you would too. However, it is worth noting that its effects kick in slower, and it is not as potent as ModaXL.
Be sure to consult your doctor before starting treatment with this drug.
Best Generic Modafinil for Beginners
If youβre completely new to the world of nootropics and are having a hard time deciding what product to start with, you can go for either ModaXL or Modvigil. Although the former has a slightly stronger effect, the fact that it is designed to pose fewer risks of side effects makes it ideal for beginners. You may pick ModaXL as your first choice since it is more recent and has an improved formula. However, if you are working on a strict budget, you should go for Modvigil.
Best Generic Modafinil for Power Users
Is your job mentally and physically demanding? Does it require you to stay awake, alert, focused, and physically active for several hours at a stretch? If your answer to these questions is yes, then ModaXL is definitely the modafinil brand for you. Its peak effect is higher than Modvigil, Modalert, and several other generic modafinil brands by up to 30%. It is common among forklift operators, truck drivers, security operatives, and computer programmers, as it greatly helps them. Remember to consult your doctor before starting treatment with it.
So, Which Nootropic Is Better?
ModaXL vs. Modvigil vs. ArmodaXL vs. Artvigil: which is better? Well, they are all excellent medications β high-quality products manufactured by reputable and trustworthy pharmaceutical companies. Whether youβre looking to treat symptoms of a sleep disorder or enhance cognitive function and ultimately gain a competitive edge, either of them is likely to work for you. However, your budget and the nature of your work will determine which one to go for. If youβre working on a budget, you may go for Modvigil or Artvigil; otherwise, the newer modafinil and armodafinil versions, ModaXL or ArmodaXL, may be a better choice. Also, the dissolution rate for both Modalert and Modvigil 200mg is less than ModaXL 200 mg which is a good achievement of ModaXL and a great advantage for our new bestseller.
At this point, it is worth reminding you that people respond to drugs differently. One individual might find one product better than the other, and vice versa. The best way to find out what works best for you, for sure, is to try them all. This is how most βsmart drugβ enthusiasts get to make a pick. While this should ordinarily cost an arm and a leg, online pharmacies such as ModafinilXL.com that offer Combo deals and/or free trial samples can help cut costs.
Remember to always consult a doctor before starting treatment with any medication.
References
- Provigil (modafinil) dosing, indications, interactions, adverse effects, and more. Retrieved: October 28, 2022. Reference.medscape.com.
- Narcolepsy medication modafinil is the world’s first safe ‘smart drug.’ Helen Thomson. Retrieved: October 28, 2022. Theguardian.com.
- Nuvigil (armodafinil) dosing, indications, interactions, adverse effects, and more. Retrieved: October 28, 2022. Reference.medscape.com.
- Armodafinil versus Modafinil in Patients of Excessive Sleepiness Associated with Shift Work Sleep Disorder: A Randomized Double-Blind Multicentric Clinical Trial. By D. V. Tembe, A. Dhavale, et al. Retrieved: October 28, 2022. Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
- Modafinil. Retrieved: October 28, 2022. Wikipedia.org.
- Complaint for Injunctive Relief. Retrieved: October 28, 2022. Ftc.gov.
- Armodafinil (Nuvigil): Basics, Side Effects & Reviews. Retrieved: October 28, 2022. Goodrx.com.
- Nuvigil Interactions Checker. Retrieved: October 28, 2022. Drugs.com.