List of the Best Supplements to Take with Modafinil

For the majority of people, modafinil alone sufficiently increases alertness, boosts memory, improves focus, and ultimately provides peak productivity. However, a select few find that they need to take it alongside some other supplements to achieve sufficient cognitive enhancement. If you are having a hard time staying awake and getting things done during work time and are looking for supplements you can take alongside modafinil for even better effects, this guide is for you.

You will also find the best online pharmacies where you can get high-quality modafinil from. Let’s dive in.

Modafinil Features

Modafinil is a wakefulness-promoting medication originally developed to treat the symptoms of narcolepsy, shift work sleep disorder (SWSD), and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Although that is what the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved it for, it is more commonly used off-label by healthy individuals to enhance cognitive function [1]. People who use modafinil for this purpose report getting the following benefits:

• improved focus;
• increased mental alertness;
• higher energy levels;
• enhanced memory;
• faster mental processing speed.

Today, some doctors typically prescribe the drug off-label to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) because of its mood-enhancing effects. It may also be used to manage several other health conditions including multiple sclerosis fatigue, Parkinson’s disease, major depressive syndrome, etc.

Modafinil comes in 100 mg and 200 mg dose strengths. It was initially only marketed under the brand name Provigil, but it is now available in a generic form under multiple trade names. Some of the most popular ones include ModaXL, Modavinil, Modalert, and Modvigil. These generics provide the same benefits as their brand-name counterpart, but they cost up to 5X less.

Modafinil is safe and well-tolerated, but it remains important to consult a doctor before starting treatment with it, as it is a prescription medication. Note that it may not be safe for certain individuals including breastfeeding mothers, pregnant women, and those with some underlying medical conditions.

Why Use Modafinil with Other Supplements?

Modafinil alone works for the majority of people who use it. However, some find that they only derive a sufficient cognitive boost from it when they combine it with other supplements; that is the sole reason why they mix it.

Using modafinil concomitantly with other medications or supplements to achieve a higher level of effectiveness is called stacking. Although stacking drugs can be counterproductive and even risky, some supplements have demonstrated a net positive effect when combined with wakefulness-promoting medications like modafinil.

However, before reading any further, it is worth noting that drugs in general and nootropic stacks work differently for different people. This simply means that a stack (a modafinil-supplement combination) that works for Mr. A might not work for Mr. B.

Top 7 Supplements You Can Take with Modafinil

Safety and bioavailability (how fast and how well a drug can be absorbed and used by the body) are important factors to watch out for when determining a supplement to use. Even if a nootropic supplement is effective but has low bioavailability, it will not work as expected. Turmeric is an excellent example; although it is a powerful nootropic, its effects are rarely felt because some of its important compounds do not get absorbed properly.

Here are 7 supplements that you can take with modafinil without experiencing any serious side effects. Rest assured that their safety and bioavailability were taken into consideration during the selection process.

Choline

Choline is a powerful nootropic that is known to effectively boost memory, clear brain fog, and improve overall brain health. Its common sources include foods such as chicken breast, hard-boiled eggs, soybeans, and beef liver. Although it is not as popular as several other nootropics, many who use it have given it a thumbs up based on its effectiveness and a lack of negative interaction when combined with modafinil.

Choline is safe & well-tolerated, and several studies support that. One such study that involved over 2,000 participants between the ages of 70–74 revealed that those with high choline levels exhibited higher levels of cognitive abilities than those who had lower levels of the nutrient. Several other studies have demonstrated the nootropic’s ability to protect the brain against age-related mental decline when at high levels in the brain [2][3].

Bacopa

Bacopa is a relatively popular nootropic that many supplement companies include in their cognitive-enhancing products because of its features. It is believed to boost memory & learning, as well as increase mental processing speed, by raising the levels of serotonin, dopamine, and certain other neurotransmitters in the brain that influence cognition.

Bacopa monnieri is actually a creeping plant native to North & South America, Asia, India, and Africa. The main cognitive-enhancing compounds are extracted from it and are often used to protect and treat the brain in cases of dementia and other age-related mental conditions [4]. This nootropic stacks well with modafinil, but it is important to watch out for interaction and seek medical attention if it arises.

L-theanine

L-theanine is a type of amino acid with powerful cognitive-enhancing effects found in black tea, green tea, and some mushrooms. It is often considered to be one of the most popular nootropic substances among “smart drug” enthusiasts, and for good reason: it is safe and effective.

It elevates mood, improves focus, increases alertness, and promotes a feeling of well-being by regulating the levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain [5][6]. This nootropic also produces a calming effect; this is why many consider it a natural solution for the treatment of ADHD. However, it is worth noting that many of these benefits are based on the accounts of users; there are currently few scientific papers to back up its effectiveness for that purpose.

Some studies conducted to ascertain the effectiveness and safety of L-theanine showed that it effectively reduces stress levels and boosts an overall cognitive state in healthy individuals [7]. The nootropic stacks well with modafinil; so far, we are yet to find any complaints of negative interaction between both nootropics.

Piracetam

Piracetam is a powerful nootropic widely known for its memory-enhancing effects and the ability to improve the mental state of individuals suffering from age-related cognitive decline. Many people have reported noticing improvements in their memory retention ability after taking this nootropic, but so far, there are only a few scientific pieces of evidence supporting its effectiveness. Also, some of the studies cannot be relied on, as they were not well-controlled [8][9].

Based on user reviews, no serious interactions have been found to result from the combination of piracetam and modafinil. However, it remains important to consult a doctor before starting treatment with it. Unlike modafinil, it can be purchased without a prescription from both local and online pharmacies.

Noopept

Noopept is a brand name for N-phenylacetyl-L-prolylglycine ethyl ester. It is a synthesized substance with cognitive-enhancing effects aimed at improving memory and increasing concentration & focus. It is believed to work by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain [11].

Many who use this nootropic have reported it to be safe and effective, even when stacked with modafinil. However, while considering testimonials from users, it is worth noting that only a handful of studies support its use for cognitive enhancement [12]. It may be best to consider trying out other supplements on this list before it – if you must stack modafinil.

Noopept is fast-acting, well-tolerated (as reported by users), inexpensive, and easy to buy.

Be sure to consult your doctor before starting treatment with it.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is a medicinal herb also known as winter cherry or Withania somnifera. It is native to parts of Africa, India, and the Middle East and has been used for many years to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase focus.

Several studies have recognized the cognitive enhancing effects of this compound, specifically in its ability to improve stress and overall cognitive function across many individuals. There are also studies that suggest that it may be effective in improving executive function, as well as boosting immediate and general memory in individuals with mild cognitive impairment [10].

Stacking modafinil with ashwagandha is not so common, but few people who have tried it have reported not experiencing any serious interaction. However, it remains advisable to consult a doctor before starting treatment with it.

Lion’s Mane

Lion’s mane is an edible mushroom native to Asia, North America, and Europe. It is widely known for its safety and effectiveness in reducing anxiety and producing a calming effect – if used properly. Its compounds are commonly extracted and infused into several supplements to provide the following benefits:

• improved mood;
• increased alertness;
• increased focus;
• enhanced memory.

Several studies have acknowledged its cognitive-enhancing effects. A few even suggest that it may have a positive effect on individuals with Alzheimer’s, protect the brain against age-related cognitive decline, and improve the overall mental state of people who use it [13][14]. However, more studies need to be conducted to understand its far-reaching benefits and learn more about its possible side effects. So far, people who stack Lion’s Mane with modafinil have reported getting remarkable results with no interaction. Consult with your doctor before taking any drugs or stacking them.

Again, it is worth noting that different people may respond differently to the supplements listed here. If you find that any supplement or drug is causing you side effects, stop using it and seek medical attention.

Where to Buy Nootropics Online?

The Internet is riddled with hundreds, if not thousands, of online pharmacies that claim to sell high-quality nootropics at the best possible price. But you probably know that only a handful of online vendors actually sell premium-quality products and offer excellent customer service. Unless you are 100% sure or confident in an e-pharmacy, do not try to buy anything from it, as you may not only be buying counterfeit medications but also exposing yourself to scammers who steal the personal information of unsuspecting buyers.

Trustworthy and reputable pharmacies typically have tons of positive reviews or feedback from customers on trusted third-party review platforms such as Yotpo and Trustpilot. It’s important that the reviews are on trusted third-party platforms because unlike those on personal websites, they are hard to fake. These pharmacies have usually been in operation for at least 3 years and have a track record to prove just that. They have no problem providing a 100% money-back guarantee, and some even go a step further to offer free trial samples. If you find a pharmacy with all the above features, there is a very high chance that it is legit.

Here are some pharmacies we found that tick all the boxes:

• ModafinilXL.com;
• BuyModa.org;
• HighStreetPharma.com;
• BuyModafinilOnline.com.

We found that these vendors source their products directly from trusted manufacturers, so we can confirm that their nootropics are all high-quality. However, they only sell modafinil- and armodafinil-based “smart drugs” such as ModaXL, Modavinil, Modvigil, Waklert, Artvigil, etc. All the nootropics on our list of the best supplements to take with modafinil are available on Amazon.

The Verdict: Best Supplements to Take with Modafinil

Modafinil is effective, and it works for the majority of people who take it as a stand-alone medication. It is safe, well-tolerated, has few side effects, and has a low potential for addiction; however, not everyone finds it effective.

Whether you belong to the incredibly small group of people who find it ineffective or are just looking to experiment, the supplements we have listed in this guide are the best ones to mix with modafinil. We selected them based on their safety, effectiveness, bioavailability, low risks of side effects & interactions. However, as you proceed to mix any of them with modafinil, it is important to remember that the studies that support stacking them or the short- and long-term effects of doing so are limited.

If one brand of modafinil such as Modalert doesn’t work for you, it may be safer to try a more recent, more potent, and safer brand such as ModaXL than to stack it. If you do decide to go ahead with stacking, note that this guide does not contain information regarding the possible side effects that might result thereof.

Consequently, it is essential that you consult your doctor before taking any of the supplements or combining them with modafinil.

References

1. Modafinil. Retrieved: November 3, 2022. Wikipedia.org.
2. Plasma Free Choline, Betaine, and Cognitive Performance: The Hordaland Health Study. By Eha Nurk, Helga Refsum, Ingvar Bjelland, et al. Published: May 1, 2012. Retrieved: November 3, 2022. Cambridge.org.
3. The Relation of Dietary Choline to Cognitive Performance and White-Matter Hyperintensity in the Framingham Offspring Cohort. By Coreyann Poly, Joseph M. Massaro, et al. Retrieved: November 3, 2022. Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
4. BACOPA: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing, and Reviews. Retrieved: November 3, 2022. Webmd.com.
5. One Supplement You Should Start Taking Now. By Kristin Bundy. Retrieved: November 3, 2022. Mdlinx.com.
6. Caffeine and L-Theanine: Nootropics You Didn’t Know You Were Using. Retrieved: November 3, 2022. Meetaila.com.
7. Effects of L-Theanine Administration on Stress-Related Symptoms and Cognitive Functions in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial. By Shinsuke Hidese, Shintaro Ogawa, et al. Retrieved: November 3, 2022. Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
8. Piracetam-Induced Improvement of Mental Performance. a Controlled Study on Normally Aging Individuals. By P. Mindus, B. Cronholm, S. E. Levander, and D. Schalling. Retrieved: November 3, 2022. Pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
9. Increase in the Power of Human Memory in Normal Man Through the Use of Drugs. By S. J. Dimond and E. M. Brouwers. Retrieved: November 3, 2022. Pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
10. Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract on Cognitive Functions in Healthy, Stressed Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. By Kumarpillai Gopukumar, Shefali Thanawala, et al. Retrieved: November 3, 2022. Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
11. Noopept: Everything You Need to Know About This Nootropic. By Daniel Boyer, M.D. Retrieved: November 3, 2022. Farrinstitute.org.
12. Noopept-Cognitive-Vitality-For-Researchers. Retrieved: November 3, 2022. Alzdiscovery.org.
13. 9 Health Benefits of Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Plus Side Effects). By Erica Julson, MS, RDN, CLT. Retrieved: November 3, 2022. Healthline.com.
14. Lion’s Mane & Your Brain. Retrieved: November 3, 2022. Alzdiscovery.org.