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Modafinil

Generic Name
Modafinil
Brand Names
Provigil
Drug Type
Small Molecule
Chemical Formula
C15H15NO2S
CAS Number
68693-11-8
Unique Ingredient Identifier
R3UK8X3U3D

Overview

Modafinil is a stimulant drug marketed as a 'wakefulness promoting agent' and is one of the stimulants used in the treatment of narcolepsy. Narcolepsy is caused by dysfunction of a family of wakefulness-promoting and sleep-suppressing peptides, the orexins, whose neurons are activated by modafinil. The prexin neuron activation is associated with psychoactivation and euphoria. The exact mechanism of action is unclear, although in vitro studies have shown it to inhibit the reuptake of dopamine by binding to the dopamine reuptake pump, and lead to an increase in extracellular dopamine. Modafinil activates glutamatergic circuits while inhibiting GABA.

Indication

To improve wakefulness in patients with excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) associated with narcolepsy.

Associated Conditions

  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Fatigue
  • Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
  • Narcolepsy
  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
  • Shift-work related sleep disturbance

Research Report

Published: Jun 5, 2025

Modafinil: A Comprehensive Pharmacological and Clinical Review

1. Introduction and Background

1.1. Overview of Modafinil

Modafinil, identified by DrugBank ID DB00745 and CAS Number 68693-11-8, is a centrally acting stimulant classified as a wakefulness-promoting agent [User Query]. Chemically, it is 2-acetamide.[1] As a small molecule drug, it has garnered significant attention for its unique pharmacological profile and therapeutic applications.

1.2. Initial Summary of Use

Modafinil is primarily utilized to improve wakefulness in adult patients experiencing excessive sleepiness associated with narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and shift work disorder (SWD).[3] These conditions are characterized by a pronounced difficulty in maintaining wakefulness, significantly impacting daily functioning and quality of life.

1.3. Historical Context and Development

The development of modafinil traces back to the 1970s in France.[5] It received its first marketing authorization in Europe (France) in June 1992.[5] In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved modafinil for the treatment of narcolepsy in 1998, subsequently expanding its indications to include OSA and SWD in 2003.[6] Modafinil is marketed under various brand names, with Provigil being one of the most widely recognized.[9]

Continue reading the full research report

Clinical Trials

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FDA Drug Approvals

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Approved Product
Manufacturer
NDC Code
Route
Strength
Effective Date
Major Pharmaceuticals
0904-6423
ORAL
100 mg in 1 1
1/6/2019
Bryant Ranch Prepack
63629-4998
ORAL
200 mg in 1 1
2/11/2021
Cephalon, LLC
63459-101
ORAL
100 mg in 1 1
2/12/2024
Rebel Distributors Corp
21695-234
ORAL
100 mg in 1 1
1/14/2010
Apotex Corp.
60505-2527
ORAL
200 mg in 1 1
12/4/2023
Bionpharma Inc.
69452-343
ORAL
200 mg in 1 1
7/21/2023
NuCare Pharmaceuticals,Inc.
68071-5121
ORAL
100 mg in 1 1
2/22/2021
Major Pharmaceuticals
0904-6424
ORAL
200 mg in 1 1
1/6/2019
Rising Health, LLC
57237-155
ORAL
200 mg in 1 1
2/9/2021
Proficient Rx LP
71205-544
ORAL
200 mg in 1 1
6/1/2023

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