Modafinil is being recognized for its positive effects on mood. Originally, it was developed to treat sleep disorders such as narcolepsy and shift work disorder. However, Modafinil is now being prescribed for other conditions, such as anxiety disorders and depression. These off-label uses, are becoming more and more popular.
Modafinil Background
Modafinil was first developed in the 1970’s in France. It has been used within a clinical setting since the mid 1980’s. This medication is currently regulated by the FDA and is available through a prescription.
This drug is commonly known as Provigil within the United States, as the company Cephalon, bought the original rights. Since 2012, there have also been a number of generic versions available. Although there are multiple benefits, many are focusing in on the positive effects associated with depression and anxiety symptoms.
The Effects of Modafinil
Although there have been multiple studies conducted, the mechanisms of action are still unclear. With that being said, it is known that Modafinil increases the level of hypothalamic histamine. This chemical helps boost mental vigilance and wakefulness. The best part about these effects, is that it does not lead to central nervous system stimulation.
Since Modafinil does not produce the side-effects like common amphetamines, it is the preferred choice. Due to the lack of side-effects in comparison to stimulants, it is now being used to treat conditions that are associated with low levels of energy.
It is also known that Modafinil affects the dopamine system within the brain. Modafinil inhibits dopamine transporter enzymes, which results in an increased levels of dopamine. Since dopamine has a positive effect on mood, Modafinil can improve how users feel.
Basically, it helps increase levels of dopamine in areas that control mood and feeling of well-being. Unlike Adderall, Modafinil does not cause a dopamine spike, then crash. It’s an all around safer, yet still effective option.
How Does Modafinil Reduce Feelings of Anxiety?
As mentioned, Modafinil has a direct effect on dopamine levels. When this occurs, it’s believed to aid in feelings of anxiety. In some cases, it’s believed that Modafinil can also increase serotonin levels. Both of these neurotransmitters play a large role in how we feel in terms of our mood and confidence levels.
Since Modafinil increase energy levels, you’d think that it would not be an ideal choice for stress and anxiety. However, reports from various users, have explained that Modafinil can eliminate anxiety for an entire day, while boosting one’s ability to focus and feel motivated. When users take Modafinil, it appears to decrease the number and severity of panic attacks. This is because Modafinil decreases our brain’s susceptibility to over-excitement.
In terms of anxiety, Modafinil has been especially beneficial when targeting symptoms of social anxiety. If you suffer from social anxiety, you know how crippling it can be. In numerous studies, Modafinil was shown to promote sociability.
Modafinil is also useful when trying to reduce anxiety associated with a test or performance levels. If you become very nervous before interviews for example, this may benefit you. Do not use Modafinil for the first time before an interview, but if you’re already comfortable with your dose, then this could be beneficial.
When taking this supplement, users experience an increased level of focus. They’ve reported that their brain was able to function without being interrupted by various thoughts. Professionals take Modafinil to help them feel more relaxed in their environment. This is because it helps you disable negative thoughts in your brain, so that you’re able to focus on the task at hand.
What Other Benefits Does Modafinil Offer?
If you’re using Modafinil for one sole purpose, you will notice various other positive effects. The main benefit is the ability to stay awake, which was what it was originally developed for. It helps promote wakefulness, without feeling tired (even if you’re sleep deprived or suffer from a sleep disorder).
Individuals who suffer from narcolepsy, which causes them to fall asleep randomly, find relief from this treatment. They’re able to live more normal, balanced lives. The same is true for individuals that work shift work. They need to stay awake during the night, as well as adjust to shift changes.
There are also noted benefits regarding weight-loss. Due to its effects on appetite, Modafinil is believed to help individuals maintain a healthy weight. It has been found that when individuals consumed 200 mg of Modafinil a day, they decreased their calorie intake by 18%. When the dose was increased to 400 mg, calorie intake decreased by 38%.
There is also interest in Modafinil regarding cocaine addiction. The way in which Modafinil works, is the opposite regarding cocaine withdrawal. It’s believed that taking this supplement, may help counteract the effects and symptoms associated with cocaine withdrawal. Other individuals use Modafinil for their ADD and ADHD, as it does not create side-effects like Ritalin or Adderall do.
Recommended Dosage
In order to produce the greatest effects regarding anxiety and mood, it is recommended that you take between 100 and 200 mg per day. This dose should generally be taken in the morning, with or without food. The benefits on anxiety and depression tend to last the entire day, even when users only take a single dose.
It is not recommended that you take Modafinil later in the day, as it can create difficulties when trying to sleep. If you do not get enough sleep, you could potentially worsen the symptoms associated with depression and anxiety. If you cannot find Modafinil, as it’s more tightly regulated, then Adrafinil is a great substitute. It is the legal, non-prescription alternative, which is converted to Modafinil in the liver.
