Armodafinil
R-enantiomer of Modafinil, longer half-life, smoother focus.
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Pharmacology
Contents
Related comparisons
Modafinil vs Armodafinil vs FlmodafinilWHAT IS ARMODAFINIL?
Detailed overview
Armodafinil is the purified R-(−)-enantiomer of Modafinil (PMID 18076219), developed by Cephalon (now Teva) and FDA-approved for narcolepsy, OSA and shift-work sleep disorder (SWSD) under the brand name Nuvigil. Its half-life is ~12-15 h (PMID 19663523) with a flatter plasma curve, a single dose typically gives 12-14 h of eugeroic action. Clinical trials also show efficacy for ADHD-like symptoms. Safe and effective for narcolepsy (PMID 16684437). Mechanism: DAT inhibition + indirect orexin/histamine pathway activation, glutamate-tone elevation, GABA-activity modulation. The "crash" sensation is milder than Modafinil`s, focus is more linear and sustained.
Mechanism
DAT inhibition + orexin/histamine
Half-life
~15 h
Legal status
FDA Schedule IV (Nuvigil)
Receptor profile
- WakefulnessStrong
- Dopamine transporter (DAT)Moderate
- Histamine / orexinModerate
Safety
Side effects, stop signs, contraindications
Side effects · 7
- Headache (the most common side effect, dose-dependent)
- Insomnia, sleep disturbance with poorly timed dosing (due to ~15h half-life)
- Anxiety, nervousness, irritability
- Appetite loss, dry mouth, nausea
- Palpitations, mild blood pressure increase
- Dizziness, emotional blunting
- Rare but serious skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, DRESS): stop immediately at any rash
Contraindications · 6
- Reduces effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives (CYP3A4 induction): use additional contraception during and for 1 month after
- Not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding (signs of intrauterine growth restriction)
- Caution with cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, prior myocardial infarction
- Avoid with anxiety disorder, psychosis or prior psychiatric history (mania, psychosis rarely triggered)
- Dose reduction required in severe hepatic or renal impairment
- Abuse and dependence potential (Schedule IV); avoid combining with alcohol and other stimulants
Related Nootropics
Same therapeutic category
FAQ
FAQ
Armodafinil is the active ingredient of an approved medication used to promote wakefulness and sustained focus, mainly in people with sleep disorders such as narcolepsy or shift-work related sleepiness. Compared to Modafinil it lasts longer in the body, giving a smoother, more even wakefulness effect over the day.
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Structure & chemistry
The information here is strictly for educational and scientific purposes. It does not replace medical advice or clinical consultation, and it does not encourage illegal substance or pharmaceutical use. Data is sourced. When in doubt, consult your doctor.