Modafinil is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that’s used to treat narcolepsy, sleep apnea, and shift work disorder.
Also known by its brand name Provigil, modafinil reduces extreme sleepiness due to narcolepsy and other sleep disorders, such as periods of stopped breathing while sleeping. It’s also prescribed to people who have work schedules that keep them from having a normal sleep routine. If you take this medication, knowing how long modafinil stays in your system is important for avoiding any interactions with other medications.
How Long Does It Take for Modafinil to Work?
Although its mechanism of action is unclear, Provigil is believed to increase wakefulness and decrease sleepiness by stimulating certain neurotransmitters or chemicals in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin. Like other stimulants, modafinil increases alertness and energy by activating certain responses in the CNS.
Provigil or modafinil begins to work within 30 to 60 minutes after it’s taken and may take slightly longer to kick in if taken on a full stomach. Modafinil affects various areas of the brain to make the user feel more awake and energized, including regions like the hypothalamus, hippocampus, and amygdala.
Modafinil’s blood concentration usually peaks around 1 to 2 hours after it’s taken. However, effects can kick in as quickly as 30 minutes in some people.
In addition to improved sleep, like all drugs, modafinil can also produce some adverse side effects, such as:
- Anxiety
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Agitation and irritability
- Sweating
- Hoarseness
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Hallucinations
- Irregular heartbeat
- Rash
- Hives
- Suicidal thoughts
Some of these adverse side effects can be terrifying, so if you experience any of these, be sure to speak to your doctor. Additionally, a modafinil overdose can occur if it’s taken in larger doses than prescribed, leading to side effects like insomnia, restlessness, chest pain, nausea, and confusion.
If you suspect a Provigil overdose in yourself or someone else, call 9-1-1 immediately. If you’re taking this medication, be sure to take it as directed and avoid combining it with other substances.
How Long Does Modafinil Last in Your System?
Provigil’s half-life ranges between 10 and 12 hours for most patients but may last up to 15 hours in some. Like other drugs, modafinil is metabolized in the liver, and its inactive metabolites are excreted in the urine.
So how long does modafinil stay in your system? It usually takes multiple half-lives for a drug to be eliminated from the body. For a standard 100 to 200 mg dose, the modafinil half-life can last up to 15 hours, so how long Provigil lasts varies depending on the dose the person takes, the person’s age, their tolerance to the drug, their liver function, and more.
However, it’s believed that modafinil stays in your system for up to 30 hours or anywhere from 2 to 3 days. Keep in mind that while this drug may remain in your body for a few days, its side effects aren’t as long-lasting.
Does Modafinil Show Up on Drug Tests?
Although a typical drug screening an employer may ask a potential new hire to take does not test for modafinil, modafinil will show up on a drug test specifically designed to pick up traces of this drug.
Additionally, any Provigil drug tests will only detect traces of the drug in urine and blood samples. Modafinil may be detected in urine anywhere between 48 and 72 hours and in blood anywhere between 10 and 12 hours.
So, while you don’t have to worry about any false positives for other drugs or possibly to test positive for modafinil, for athletes, it’s a different story. For instance, sprinter Kelli White had her gold medal from the World Championships revoked because they found traces of modafinil in her system. Many governing bodies have banned Provigil, so it’s possible that an athlete who tests positive for it may face some serious consequences.
What activities should be avoided while taking modafinil?
While taking modafinil, it is important to avoid engaging in activities that may require a high level of alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery. Additionally, it is recommended to steer clear of other dangerous activities until the individual understands how modafinil impacts their wakefulness levels. It is advised to refrain from consuming alcohol while under the influence of modafinil.
Get Help for Drug Addiction Today
Stimulant abuse is a growing problem in the United States, especially among young adults and college students seeking to improve their performance at school or work. In the end, however, the misuse of stimulants for personal gain usually results in physical drug dependence and addiction.
If you or someone you know has developed a substance use disorder, don’t wait to get them help. Our drug rehab in South Florida offers various levels of care for treating addiction, including medically monitored detox to manage withdrawal symptoms and substance-specific rehab programs.
Our team offers safe and effective care in a clean and controlled environment where patients can fully recover from their drug and alcohol use and learn how to live sober lives. For more information about our Florida drug and alcohol treatment, call Banyan Treatment Centers Stuart today at 888-280-4763.
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