Quick facts

Active ingredient: Modafinil

Primary use: Wakefulness-promoting agent for excessive daytime sleepiness related to narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea (as an adjunct to primary therapy), and shift work sleep disorder.

Common strengths: 100 mg and 200 mg tablets

What is Provigil?

Provigil is the brand name for modafinil, a prescription medicine designed to help adults stay awake during the day when certain sleep disorders cause problematic sleepiness. It is not a substitute for getting adequate sleep, and it does not cure the underlying sleep disorder.

If you are exploring how it works, jump to How it works. For cost information in USD, see Prices in the USA. To compare with similar medications, go to Alternatives.

How does Provigil work?

While the exact mechanism is not fully defined, modafinil appears to influence several neurotransmitter systems in the brain, including dopamine, norepinephrine, glutamate, and histamine, in ways that promote wakefulness and alertness.

Unlike traditional stimulants, modafinil generally has a lower risk of jitteriness and has a different pharmacologic profile, though it still acts on the central nervous system and should be used carefully as directed by a clinician.

How should I take Provigil?

Always use Provigil exactly as prescribed by your health care professional. Do not change the dose or stop suddenly without medical advice.

  • Narcolepsy or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): Typical adult dose is 200 mg once each morning. In OSA, Provigil is used as an adjunct to primary therapies (for example, CPAP).
  • Shift work sleep disorder (SWSD): Often 200 mg taken about 1 hour before the work shift begins.
  • Hepatic impairment or sensitive patients: A lower starting dose, such as 100 mg daily, may be recommended by your prescriber.

You may take Provigil with or without food. Some individuals use it for extended periods when clinically appropriate; follow your prescriber's plan regarding duration and monitoring.

For guidance on missed doses or overdose, see Missed dose or overdose.

What should I tell my health care provider before starting?

Do not take Provigil if you have had an allergic reaction or serious rash to modafinil or armodafinil (Nuvigil).

Discuss your full medical history and medications. It is especially important to mention if you have or have had any of the following:

  • Uncontrolled high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, or other significant heart disease
  • Psychiatric conditions such as depression, mania, psychosis, anxiety, or bipolar disorder
  • Liver problems including cirrhosis, or kidney disease
  • History of substance use disorder (alcohol or drugs)
  • Chest pain (angina) or history of heart attack

Modafinil may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal birth control due to enzyme induction. Use a reliable non-hormonal backup method during treatment and for at least 1 month after the last dose. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, discuss risks and benefits with your clinician.

Serious skin reactions have been reported. If you develop a rash, hives, mouth sores, blistering, facial swelling, fever, or signs of liver problems such as dark urine or yellowing of the skin or eyes, stop the medicine and seek emergency help.

Missed dose and overdose

Missed dose: If you miss a dose and it is close to bedtime or you will not be awake for several hours, skip it. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose. If unsure, ask your prescriber or pharmacist.

Overdose: Seek emergency medical attention or call Poison Control in the USA at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking Provigil?

  • Avoid hazardous tasks until you know how Provigil affects you. It can impair judgment, thinking, or reactions in some people.
  • Do not combine with alcohol, which can unpredictably increase sedation or impair coordination.
  • Use caution with other stimulants and limit excess caffeine intake unless your clinician advises otherwise.

Possible side effects

Get emergency medical help for allergic reactions such as hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Serious reactions - stop the drug and seek care immediately if you notice:

  • Skin rash, hives, blistering, or peeling
  • Mouth sores, difficulty swallowing, or facial swelling
  • Shortness of breath, chest pain, or irregular heartbeats
  • Mood changes such as depression, anxiety, agitation, hallucinations, suicidal thoughts or behavior
  • Leg swelling, fever
  • Dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

Common effects that are usually mild:

  • Sleep problems or insomnia
  • Nausea, diarrhea, or upset stomach
  • Back pain
  • Stuffy or runny nose
  • Headache or dizziness
  • Feeling nervous or anxious

This is not a complete list. Report unexpected or persistent symptoms to your clinician.

Alternatives and similar medications

Several medicines may be used for excessive daytime sleepiness related to narcolepsy, OSA (adjunctive), or SWSD. Options differ in mechanism, duration, adverse effects, cost, and legal status. Discuss suitability with your clinician.

  • Armodafinil (Nuvigil): The R-enantiomer of modafinil, often taken 150-250 mg once daily. Similar benefits and precautions. Brand is usually more expensive than generic modafinil.
  • Solriamfetol (Sunosi): A dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor used for narcolepsy and OSA-related sleepiness. Dosed once daily; can raise blood pressure and heart rate.
  • Pitolisant (Wakix): A histamine-3 receptor inverse agonist; may help both sleepiness and cataplexy in narcolepsy. Titrated over several weeks. Not a controlled substance in the USA.
  • Methylphenidate (e.g., Ritalin, Concerta): Classic stimulant; immediate or extended-release forms are available. May have more pronounced stimulant effects for some users.
  • Mixed amphetamine salts (e.g., Adderall) and related amphetamines: Potent stimulants that can improve wakefulness but carry a higher misuse risk and cardiovascular cautions.

Non-drug strategies, such as consistent sleep schedules, optimizing CPAP for OSA, light exposure, and workplace accommodations for shift work, should also be part of a comprehensive plan.

Rough price comparisons in the USA (USD)

Cash prices can vary widely by pharmacy, dose, and use of discount programs. The ranges below are approximate retail prices for 30 tablets unless noted otherwise. Insurance copays may be lower.

  • Modafinil (generic) 200 mg: about $25 - $120
  • Provigil (brand) 200 mg: about $600 - $1,000
  • Armodafinil (generic) 150 - 250 mg: about $30 - $150
  • Nuvigil (brand) 150 - 250 mg: about $500 - $900
  • Solriamfetol (Sunosi): about $600 - $900 per month
  • Pitolisant (Wakix): about $700 - $1,200 per month
  • Methylphenidate (generic IR): about $10 - $35
  • Mixed amphetamine salts (generic IR): about $15 - $60

These figures are estimates and fluctuate over time. Check local pharmacies or discount tools, and verify coverage with your insurer.

Storage and other tips

  • Store at room temperature, away from moisture and excessive heat.
  • Keep out of reach of children and pets.
  • Do not share your medication. It is prescribed based on individual health needs.