Modafinil (Provigil) and armodafinil (Nuvigil) are two nootropics that have a similar function. They are advised for the treatment of excessive sleepiness (ES) caused by narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), or shift work sleep disorder (SWSD).
Also, these drugs are used off-label for boosting concentration, memory, focus, learning, attention, and motivation.
Structurally, armodafinil is slightly different from modafinil. In fact, armodafinil is the R-enantiomer of modafinil, meaning armodafinil is a mirror image of modafinil. So they are similar, but they are not exactly the same. They have the same function, but there are a few differences between them.
However, there is one genuine concern among people who want to use these smart drugs – which one is the most effective?
Studies have found that both armodafinil and modafinil are safe and effective in the treatment of excessive sleepiness. However, one study reported that armodafinil is a bit more potent than modafinil.
Despite having similar chemical structures and half-lives, the plasma concentrations after armodafinil administration are higher late in the day than those following modafinil administration, according to a study published in the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
“The different pharmacokinetic profile of armodafinil may result in improved wakefulness throughout the day in patients with ES compared with modafinil,” according to NIH.
Modafinil and armodafinil provide similar functions and are effective treatments for ES caused by narcolepsy, OSA, and SWSD. They are also considered effective cognitive performance enhancers.
The indications and benefits of both drugs are the same. There is a lot more research highlighting the benefits of modafinil than armodafinil.
Whether you decide to use modafinil or armodafinil, the effects are generally the same. However, studies suggest that armodafinil is slightly more effective than modafinil.
As far as cost is concerned, modafinil is cheaper than armodafinil. You can even buy these smart drugs online if you have a prescription. Nevertheless, scientifically, whether armodafinil is better than modafinil is inconclusive. And if your main concern is efficacy, you can check with your doctor or you may try both Armodafinil and Modafinil to see which one is suitable and works best for you.
