Caffeine and Modafinil are two commonly used compounds known for their stimulating effects on the brain. Modafinil is a medication available under the brand names Modalert, Provigil, and Modvigil. It is used to promote wakefulness in people suffering from various sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea, shift work sleep disorder, and shift work sleep disorder. Caffeine, a common stimulant found in coffee and other beverages, is known for its ability to reduce fatigue and enhance alertness.

This blog explores how these two compounds can be combined safely, ensuring optimal efficiency while minimizing potential risks.

Can You Take Caffeine While Taking Modafinil?

Yes, you can take caffeine while taking Modafinil because it can have numerous benefits.  However, you have to be highly cautious as both these substances are very powerful on their own.

A study by Nancy Jo Wesensten et al. stated that caffeine and Modafinil are equally effective in sleep-deprived people for more than 48 hours [1].

If you are thinking of combining Modvigil tablets with caffeine, we recommend you start with a lower dose and gradually combine both substances.

Below, we have provided ways to take Modafinil with the most popular caffeinated beverage, coffee [2].

• 1 cup of coffee + Modafinil 50 mg
• 1 cup of coffee + Modafinil 100 mg
• 1 cup of coffee + Modafinil 200 mg
• 2 cups of coffee + Modafinil 200 mg

To avoid overstimulation while having Modafinil and coffee, drink your coffee slowly.

Is Taking Modalert And Caffeine Safe?

The interaction between Modafinil and caffeine is usually safe. However, improper consumption and dosage may increase the chances of causing side effects. Therefore, it’s important to be cautious while taking the two, as they are both powerful brain stimulants.

Modafinil And Caffeine Interaction – Benefits

A few benefits of combining Modafinil and caffeine are as follows –

Improve physiological consequences –

Sleep deprivation can impact the physiological functioning of an individual. A study on Modafinil and caffeine’s effect on sleep deprivation showed improved results in physiological functions [3].

Beats fatigue –

Both Modafinil and caffeine have been shown to effectively combat fatigue. In a study involving healthy adults deprived of sleep for 54.5 hours, it was stated that both substances significantly restored wakefulness, helping participants overcome fatigue [4].

Modafinil and caffeine for shift workers –

Shift work may be a common reason behind the disruption of the normal sleep cycle in people. A study assessed Caffeine and Modafinil’s effectiveness in continuous military operations with disrupted sleep cycles. The study stated that the interaction between Modafinil and caffeine effectively improves shift work performance.

Side Effects Of Mixing Provigil And Caffeine

Some of the side effects of combining Provigil and caffeine are –

Dehydration –

Both Modafinil and caffeine can cause dehydration because they are diuretics (substances that rid your body of water). Many individuals who combine both these substances often experience dehydration in the form of dry eyes or dry mouth. Therefore, it is recommended that you drink enough water to avoid dehydration while using caffeine and Modafinil.

Headaches –

Modafinil is known to cause headaches in some people as a side effect. Coffee, on the other hand, is also well-known for causing headaches. Therefore, when combining the two, the chances of headaches occurring increases. To get rid of it, one should get proper rest.

Anxiety –

Caffeine and Modafinil intake simultaneously may increase the chances of jitteriness, anxiety, and stress. In such scenarios, reducing the doses of both substances may be beneficial.

Higher blood pressure –

Provigil and Modafinil use individually has the potential to elevate the blood pressure of the user. Thus,  their interaction can spike blood pressure even more.

Things To Remember While Mixing Caffeine And Modafinil

Some of the things that people should remember while mixing Modafinil and caffeine are –

• Do not take too much caffeine while taking Modafinil because it can make you feel anxious and jittery.
• Take caffeine 1-2 hours after taking Modafinil.
• Keep an eye on how your body reacts to caffeine and Modafinil. If you notice any adverse events after taking these substances together, consult a healthcare provider.

When Should We Avoid Mixing Modafinil And Caffeine Together?

If you have any cardiovascular disease or other conditions like Graved disease, Addison’s disease, or Hashimoto’s disease, it is recommended that you avoid the intake of Modafinil and caffeine completely.

And liver or kidney issues can significantly increase the risks associated with using Modafinil and caffeine [5].

Modafinil Drug Interactions

Avoid taking the following drugs while taking Modafinil [6].

• medicines called MAO Inhibitors like Nardil, Parnate, Marplan, Eldepryl
• amphetamine or dextroamphetamine
• pemoline
• dexmethylphenidate or methylphenidate
• procarbazine

Modafinil may also interact with –

• birth control pills or other hormone-containing birth control devices or implants
• antifungal medicines like itraconazole or ketoconazole
• medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
• triazolam
• propranolol
• warfarin.

Precautions And Warning

• The use of Modafinil may be unsafe during pregnancy. Consult a healthcare provider to assess the benefits and risks prior to use.
• If you experience any side effects, such as drowsiness or dizziness after taking the medication, avoid driving or operating any heavy machinery.
• Modafinil should be taken only after consulting a doctor if you have any kidney or liver disease.
• Breastfeeding women should avoid the intake of this medication as it may pass into the breast milk and harm the baby.
• Do not drink alcohol while taking Modafinil because it can increase the risks of side effects of Modafinil. Get detailed insights about the interaction between alcohol and Modafinil by clicking on our blog page Modafinil and alcohol interaction.

Conclusion

Modafinil and caffeine are potent choices among people for enhancing energy, focus, and productivity. When combined, these two substances can amplify the effects of each other. However, this combination can also cause side effects such as anxiety and jitteriness. Therefore, it is crucial to be cautious while mixing Modafinil and caffeine.