Modafinil, also known as Provigil, is a drug used to treat extreme sleepiness and is classified as a nootropic or cognitive enhancer. This condition could result from narcolepsy or other sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea (periods of stopped breathing during sleep). Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that alters the ability of a person to wake and sleep. Individuals diagnosed with narcolepsy commonly have excessive, uncontrollable daytime sleepiness, even amid an activity. For this purpose, Modafinil and other similar sleep medications are prescribed to ease the sleep disorder symptoms. The exact way Modafinil works in the body to treat sleep disorders is still being explored. However, it is generally assumed that the drug affects certain substances in the brain that control the sleep/wake cycle. Therefore, a note of warning is added concerning the usage of this drug as it may not work in similar ways for everyone. It is far more advisable to get proper sleep as this will always be the best remedy for any sleep disorder.
Can Modafinil Enhance Intelligence?
Modafinil can also be used off-label for individuals with multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and chronic fatigue syndrome to help them stay alert. Students and executives especially favor this function to combat sleep deprivation and purportedly promote unwavering focus and the ability to concentrate. There have even been allusions that Modafinil can enhance cognitive functioning. The truth is that only a few small trials have been held to investigate Modafinil’s effect on human cognition. The results were highly variable and mixed, with some reporting feeling more alert, attentive and energetic and others showing no difference in performance accuracy. The accepted conclusion is that Modafinil works best only on the sleep-deprived. Its effects are more limited to other people, particularly concerning improving attention, memory, or processing speed. Hence, people who consume the drug to become smart do so at high risk, especially with a probability of becoming chemically dependent. Even in general usage, people who take Modafinil are faced with side effects ranging from headache and nausea to dizziness and difficulty sleeping. If the drug is taken in larger doses than prescribed or too often, it may become habit-forming, and these signs may worsen. This risk becomes higher in addiction-prone individuals. A prominent dependency symptom is a psychological reliance on the drug, especially believing that one cannot keep awake without it.
Help for People Dependent on Modafinil
Nevertheless, it is possible to receive comprehensive and dedicated help to overcome this and other forms of dependency. At Evoke Wellness at Cohasset, our mission involves helping the chemically dependent by ensuring addicted individuals receive the best care with our continuous support. The goal is to see them heal fully and sustainably. These facilities employ evidence-based treatment models with state-of-the-art amenities to ensure clients’ rehabilitation and comfort. The Evoke Wellness at Cohasset team will also offer case management and other support services to make the recovery process simple, easy, and doable. To get started with us or for further inquiries, contact our advocates today.
