Description

What is Modafinil??

Modafinil is one of the most popular drugs in the group of nootropics, that is taken, to improve cognitive functions and increase brain performance. It has among people, whose work involves mental tasks or requires increased concentration, gained significantly in popularity. Especially with students, This drug is very popular among IT specialists and long-haul truck drivers.

Modafinil is a selective Alpha-1-Adrenergic agonist mainly central effect. It acts as psychostimulans and improves cognitive performance. Originally developed for the treatment of narcolepsy, Modafinil became the first medication in his class, The vigilance promotes, and became 1998 approved in the USA. During the studies, patients remained, The modafinil income, 28 Wake up for hours and were able to maintain their attention and vigilance. Media reports suggest, that the drug is actively used by the military of the United States and the United Kingdom, To increase performance, Especially with pilots. Modafinil reduces the need for sleep and can be used effectively, To increase attention and concentration.

After the generally accepted classification, Modafinil is both a nootropic and a eugeroic. Eugeroika are substances, that have a stimulating effect, Reduce the drowsiness and promote vigilance. A typical example of a euggeroic is caffeine. Modafinil belongs to the same group and activates neurotransmitter, who are responsible for vigilance. In addition, Modafinil improves cognitive functions and shows nootropic properties, What makes it useful, to improve memory and concentration. Due to its long half -life, it can offer surgical advantages, by increasing the tolerance towards the harmful effects of longer mental exertion.

Purpose of the application

The use of Modafinil serves various purposes, Both in medical institutions and beyond. Below is the most popular reasons for using Modafinil:

Medical application

Modafinil is used in medicine, To treat sleepiness in connection with narcolepsy. It is approved for the treatment of sleep disorders in connection with shift work and excessive daily fatigue. In addition, Modafinil is in some countries by the registration authorities to treat cases of idiopathic hypersomnia (Pathological daily fatigue with an unknown cause) approved.

Non -approved application in medicine

Modafinil is also used as a relatively safe psychostimulant outside of admission. For example, the treatment of lethargy and fatigue in connection with depression is, Fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, Myotonic dystrophy and sleepiness used by opioids. It improves the subjective mood and can be used to treat jet lag..

Modafinil can also be an effective and well -tolerable treatment for patients with seasonal affective disorder. Some doctors can also do it for people with the “Night owl”-Prescribe syndrome. There are indications of this, that modafinil, If it is used alone, is effective in certain subgroups of people with depersonalization derealization syndrome. The subgroups, who most often address on Modafinil, are people with attention deficits, Low nervous system activity and increased sleepiness.

Non -medical use to increase performance

By influencing brain cells, Improves modafinil cognitive functions, What to an increased work capacity, activity, alertness, Focus and concentration leads. As a result, many consider it to be a brain -constricting one “Smart Drug”. Experts, do the intellectual work, Like programmer, Players and students, Use modafinil, To increase productivity. It is widely used outside the approval, To suppress the need for sleep, While it also improves short -term memory after sleep deprivation.

Military use: The armed forces of several countries have shown interest in Modafinil as an alternative to amphetamines - medication, which are traditionally used in combat situations, in which soldiers are exposed to sleep deprivation, for example during extended missions. In the US military, Modafinil is approved for use in various air force surgery and is examined for other purposes. Studies have shown, that modafinil, When it is in divided doses of 100 MG is administered, The flight control accuracy in sleep-moved F-117 pilots, for example 27% the Baseline for up to 37 Hours without significant side effects can maintain.

Space missions: Astronauts on long missions on board the international space station have used Modafinafinil, To optimize performance during phases of fatigue. It helps with disorders of the circadian rhythm and poor sleep quality, Experience the astronauts. Similar to risky, Large and longer law enforcement operations in Maryland, USA, Field doctors 200 Spend MG Modafinil to law enforcement officers once a day, To get attention, To improve concentration and functionality under conditions of limited recovery.

Cocaine dependency

Modafinil is examined as possible treatment for cocaine addiction, Due to several reasons, that are related to the biochemical mechanism, that affects both medication, and observations, that the clinical effect of Modafinil is sometimes opposite the symptoms of cocaine withdrawal. In a double -blind study with Modafinil for people, who are looking for a treatment for cocaine dependency, Significant improvements were found in some parameters, Like the maximum number of successive days without cocaine consumption, However, no statistically significant effect on the change rate in the percentage of the cocaine -free days was determined.

weight loss

Studies on Modafinil, also for people with normal weight, show, that it suppresses appetite and leads to weight loss. All Modafinil studies in the Medline database, that lasted longer than a month and reported changes in the weight, show, that Modafinil users lose weight compared to placebo. 2008 a small study of people with simulated shift work showed a reduction in calorie consumption 18% at 200 MG Modafinil per day and a reduction around 38% at 400 mg pro Tag.

Mode of action

Regardless of intensive research on the interaction of Modafinil with various neurotransmitters, the exact mechanism or the mechanism combination remains unclear. Scientists are still researching, How Modafinil influences the human body. It is known, that the drug influences various neurotransmitters in the brain, The for vigilance, Concentration and the focus are responsible. It is believed, that the drug influences several different ways in the brain, which creates a stimulating effect and cognitive functions are improved. Modafinil probably increases the release of monoamines, especially noradrenaline and dopamine, Synaptic columns, Similar to other stimulants.

Modafinil affects the brain, by activating different biochemical processes. It stimulates the production of dopamine and related neurotransmitters, Indirectly increases brain activity and improves cognitive functions (Executive functions). These changes enable the people, To cope with mental tasks more effectively, To make quick decisions and maintain the concentration over longer periods of time. Because of his ability, To increase the dopamine values ​​in the brain, becomes modafinil people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) prescribed, that have critically low dopamine values, Which leads to concentration problems and attention deficits.

During clinical studies, it was found, that Modafinil has neuroprotective and antioxidant properties. It helps, Increase the cortical creatine levels and reduce oxidative processes in the brain, Which also contributes to improved concentration. In addition, it suppresses the activity of connections, who are responsible for fatigue, and actively activates substances, that promote vigilance.

In addition, Modafinil increases the histamine level in the hypothalamus, What some researchers prompted, it more than “Alert” Because to consider a classic amphetamine -like stimulant.

Show studies, that modafinil one “Low potential for serious abuse” has and “does not cause addiction in the case of first users”. The combined effect of modafinil on both catecholamine- as well as histamine paths reduces his potential for abuse compared to traditional stimulants, While it at the same time maintains its effectiveness as a growth -promoting medication.

Numerous studies show an increase in monoamine values, Especially from dopamine in the striatum and nucleus accumbens, Noradrenaline in hypothalamus and ventrolateral preoptic nucleus and serotonin in the amygdala and frontal cortex. Modafinil activates the glutamater and inhibits the transmission of gabaergen nerve signals.

Bonds

• Improves memory
• Increases attention and cognitive function
• Reduces the need for sleep
• Improves mood and motivation
• Reduces the appetite and calorie consumption 18%
• Reduces daytime fatigue

Side effects

There is a risk of neurological, High- and allergic side effects, Although these side effects usually occur most frequently in the first two weeks of taking the drug. The side effects include back pain, Headache, nausea, anxiety, Nasal deflection, Diarrhea, dizziness, Digestive disorders, insomnia, Heavy allergic reactions, Hives, Formation of ulcers in the mouth, Formation of bubbles or peeling the skin, Swelling of face, Eyes, Lip, Tongue, Legs or throat, Sip- and breathing difficulties, Fever, Shortness of breath, Yellow coloring of the skin and eyes, Dark urine and increased blood pressure.

Half-life

The bioavailability of Modafinil is over 80%. The average maximum concentration is about 2-3 Hours after administration reached. The simultaneous administration of food slows down the intake, However, does not affect the total area under the pharmacokinetic curve (“Concentration time”). The half -life is usually between 10 and 15 Hours and can depending on the genotype of the cytochrome P450 enzymes and the liver- and kidney function vary.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to the medication
• Horse cycle diseases history, Especially during the application of other stimulants or in the case of cirrhosis of the liver
• Heart diseases, In particular, left ventricular hypertrophy or mitral valve prolapse

How to use it

People with lack of sleep receive this drug, To maintain vigilance during the day. Healthy people take it, To improve motivation and cognitive skills. This drug helps for people with hyperactivity, to focus more easily on complex tasks. In addition, Modafinil enables a person, To stay vigilant and concentrated over longer periods, What makes it easier to execute demanding tasks. This effect continues, As long as there is a sufficient concentration of modafinil in the body.

Dosages

A single dose of 200 MG recommended in the morning, Although there are clinical studies data, who indicate it, that the two -time administration (in the morning and noon) von 200 MG is more effective. A single dose of 400 MG does not significantly increase the effectiveness compared to the 200 mg dose.

For the treatment of drowsiness in connection with shift work, a single dose of 200 MG of the drug recommended one hour before the layer begins. Good effects can also be used with a single dose of 300 mg to be achieved. persons, which are particularly sensitive to the drug, can with a dosage of 100 Mg feel a significant effect.

In all cases, the daily dosage should 400 MG do not exceed. Taking the drug in the second half of the day is not recommended, Since Modafinil is slowly excreted from the body (Half-life 12-15 Hours) and can disturb the normal night sleep. In general, the dosage recommendations are sufficient for 100 bis 400 mg pro Tag, divided into 1-2 Lecturer.

The recommended initial dosage of the drug is 50-100 mg, which gradually 200 MG or more is increased, Until the desired effect can be felt.

Safe doses

Some people can already take daily intake of 50 MG of the active ingredient and achieve the desired effects, while others may need higher doses, To achieve a similar effect. Therefore it is impossible, to definitely determine, Which dosage is more appropriate, Since this depends on individual body features.

The standard initial dosage of the drug is 50 mg pro Tag. Then the dose can gradually be increased, Until the desired effect is achieved. In most cases, Modafinil is in a dosage of 200 Mg taken per day. The maximum permissible dosage is 400 mg pro Tag.

If you plan, Taking Modafinil daily over a longer period of time, it is better, to stick to the lower end of the dosage area. This reduces the risk of unwanted side effects. Dosages close to the maximum permissible limit are more suitable for single cans, If it is important, to achieve a strong effect immediately. In addition, higher doses from Modafinil may be required for people with accelerated metabolism.

Overdose

Symptoms of an overdose are only possible, When a person exceeds the maximum daily dose of the drug, d. h. more than 400 Mg Modafinil occupies. In the event of an excessive high dose of modafinil, symptoms can occur, which are similar to those of side effects. These can be afraid, restlessness, confusion,Sleep disorders, Diarrhea, Tachycardia, Hallucinations, nausea, Tremble, Breast pain and other symptoms include.

Lack of effects

Different people can experience the effects of Modafinil differently. Very rare, But it happens, that the drug has no effect at all. For example, some people can, especially those, who have just started taking the medication or who have been taking it for a long time and in high doses, Do not feel any desired effects.

Can be taken daily modafinil?

The daily intake of the drug is for the treatment of narcolepsy, Schlafapnoe, ADHD, Multiple sclerosis and some other chronic diseases indicate. Frequency and duration of modafinil intake depend directly on the desired goal. persons, whom this drug was prescribed by a doctor, must strictly adhere to the doses given by the doctor.

However, the optimal dosage planning to increase productivity is included 2-4 Income per week. For some people, taking Modafinil 1-2 Times a month as “Rescue” be sufficient, If you have to cope with urgent tasks.

If you take Modafinil daily, To increase productivity and improve concentration, is it important, to comply with certain rules. In particular, it should be understood, that the drug is never completely excreted from the body when used daily. Therefore it is necessary during this time, to forego alcohol and cigarettes. It is also important to know, that a withdrawal syndrome can occur after stopping the medication.

The frequency and duration of modafinil intake depend directly on the desired goal. persons, whom this drug was prescribed by a doctor, must strictly adhere to the doses given by the doctor. persons, who decided independently, To take modafinil, To increase the activity, Should take into account the special features of your own body and pay attention to the reactions of your body to the medication. Some people take tablets every day, To get the necessary energy kick, while others may only take the medication in special situations, z. B. Before an exam or during preparation for particularly demanding projects.

The best advice in this case is it, to take the drug only then, If it is really necessary, to improve cognitive functions or maintain the concentration over a longer period of time.

Influence on sleep

When modafinil is taken into small doses, the night sleep is not impaired. After the phase of vigilance, a sleep duration of 7-8 hours on. However, it should be observed, that the half -life of this drug 12-15 Is hours and this value can vary depending on the metabolic rate of the individual. this means, that a certain amount of modafinil can remain in the blood at the end of the day. Therefore, Modafinil should be in doses of up to 400 mg can only be taken in the morning, In order not to disturb the regular daily routine and avoid insomnia.

How long can you stay awake with Modafinil?

If the dosage is calculated correctly, can vigilance taking modafinil for 22 Hours or longer are maintained. In some cases, the effect of this strong euggeroic can be up to 40 Stop for hours. This does it with people, whose work requires longer activity and concentration, extremely popular. For example, it can be for long -distance drivers, who have to remain attentive for many hours, be an advantage.

Modafinil and withdrawal syndrome

When Modafinil is taken over a longer period of time and in high doses, can occur after stopping symptoms of a withdrawal syndrome. The longer one person has taken the tablets, the more intensive these symptoms can be. To make the process of setting up Modafinil less painful, it recommends it, to gradually reduce the dosage of the drug. After aborting, problems with the concentration can, fatigue, Depression, sleepiness, Breath and weakness occur. These symptoms, in particular strong weakness, are most clearly noticeable in the first week after stopping the drug. persons, Take the modafinil in small doses, However, no withdrawal symptoms usually experience, If you stop taking it.

Dependency

Despite some biochemical similarities with addictive stimulants, Modafinil has significantly lower addiction properties. In other words, The risk of dependency on modafinil is minimal, What distinguishes from other stimulants such as amphetamines.

Combination with other medication

Below is some potential combinations of Modafinil with other medication. It is important to understand, that Modafinil is a ZNS stimulant. Even if there is no information about the combination of modafinil with other stimululants, can be potentiated their effects, Which can lead to different side effects.

Contraceptive

Modafinil can reduce the effectiveness of some contraceptives, What can lead to unplanned pregnancies.

Yohimbin

The combination of modafinil with Yohimbin can lead to a dangerous increase in heart rate and blood pressure.

Caffeine

If you decide, To take caffeine and modafinil at the same time, it is important to know, that both substances have a strong influence on the nerves- and have cardiovascular system. Therefore, the daily taking of Modafinil and caffeine in people with minor cardiovascular or nervous problems may be unsure.

Dopamine receptor antagonist

While the simultaneous administration of amphetamines with dopamine receptor antagonists reduces the stimulating effect of amphetamines, the combination of dopamine receptor antagonists and Modafinil does not completely reduce modafinil's alertness effects.

Modafinil and alcohol

The simultaneous use of modafinil and alcohol can be dangerous. This is because, that from a biochemical perspective, these substances cause opposing reactions in the brain. Alcohol increases the activity of gamma-amino acid (GABA) and reduces glutamativity. Modafinil, on the other hand, acts as a source for Gaba and accelerates the glutamsynthesis. In addition, alcohol inhibits many processes in the brain, While Modafinil stimulates brain activity. The result of this “Struggle” In the brain can be unpredictable.

Mao-inhibitor

Data on the drug interaction between Modafinil and Mao inhibitors are not available. Therefore, caution should be advised when the use of MAO inhibitors and Modafinil.

It is important, that a doctor is always consulted with other medication before combining modafinil, To discuss possible interactions and risks.