Does Modafinil Really Have Cognitive Enhancing Effects?
While the trials are limited, several participants reported feeling more energetic, attentive and alert after taking Modafinil in a 2003 trial. Participants also reported improvement in brain activity while working in certain tasks that require memory power such as digit span and visual recognition. Plus, it also decreases the level of impulse decisions as the user feels more confident in working and less fatigue. Meanwhile, in a trial conducted in 2014, participants reported improvements in impulsive decision-making without any difference in performance.
In a 2017 study comparing effects of Modafinil, caffeine and methylphenidate in chess players, users taking Modafinil and methylphenidate witnessed more enhancement in performance. In 19 placebo-controlled trials, it was seen that Modvigil 200 Australia works best for populations who are sleep-deprived in terms of improved attention, memory, processing speed and executive functioning.
When used as a combination treatment for schizophrenia, it was found that Modafinil and Armodafinil both had a mild effect on reducing negative symptoms associated with Schizophrenia.
Does Modafinil aid in Decision Fatigue?
Decision Fatigue is best described as a state where the decision process of our brain starts to deteriorate the more we use them. It means the level of decision our brain had made an hour ago was better than the decision it makes when we use it repeatedly.
Therefore, judges are likely to give parole for cases heard later on in the day. The same pattern has been seen among shoppers as people shopping for hours often end up buying something they never planned. When our mental energy is drained, we tend to make impulsive decisions and act recklessly.
According to a collective study of Modafinil in healthy and non-sleep deprived individuals, researchers concluded that Modafinil helps people improve their attention span and learn complex thought processes. However, it does not impact their working memory or understanding different points of view, but improves decision-making and planning.
Is Modafinil a Performance Enhancing Drug?
Well, whether Modafinil is a performance enhancing drug is still not clear. However, it is prohibited by the world anti-doping agency (WADA) unless the athlete is diagnosed with narcolepsy and granted a TUE before the event. Consequently, WADA banned it completely in 2004.
This is because numerous athletes used it for improving their concentration, focus and recovery time. In 2003, American athlete Kelli White won both the 100m and 200m race at a rare sprint double achievement at the World Track and Field Championships. However, she was banned within a few hours when tested positive for modafinil. Although she says she was taking them for her narcolepsy, the USA track and field does not believe her.
Does Modafinil Enhance Combat Awareness?
Everyone needs 8 hours of sleep, but that seems far-fetched when you are in a war, space mission or flying a plane. Modafinil replaced Dexamphetamine in 2012 in the military as it helps in alertness, improved judgment, and increased risk perception which is essential for sleep-deprived pilots and soldiers.
The good thing about Modafinil is that it is available in both brand name and generic versions as well. The most popular version Modvigil is available in both 100 mg and 200 mg at a cost way cheaper than the branded version while comprising the same potency.
It’s a common misconception amongst patients that being above 18 years of age makes them eligible for Modafinil. However, that has no truth to it. Every drug comes with certain usage restrictions and so does Modafinil. Patients should abide by those restrictions for sure. In case you are not sure, ask your doctor before you start taking the medication. It will help you keep off from its negative side effects for sure.
