Compare Concerta vs. Provigil
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.
Helps you focus and stay alert.
Concerta (methylphenidate extended-release) is a first-choice treatment for ADHD that works throughout the day, but can affect growth in children and teens.
Improves alertness.
Provigil (modafinil) is effective in improving alertness, but it interacts with some medicines and shouldn't be used long-term.
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4.2/ 5 average rating with 28 reviewsforProvigil
Upsides
- First-choice medication to treat ADHD. Some other forms of Concerta (methylphenidate extended-release) can also treat narcolepsy.
- The onset of effects will occur within an hour. The full effects can last 8 to 12 hours.
- Taken only once a day compared to the immediate-release form.
- Available in many different forms: extended-release and immediate-release tablets, chewable tablet, liquid, and skin patches.
- The capsule may be sprinkled on applesauce if you have a difficult time swallowing pills.
- Provigil (modafinil) is a nonstimulant medication that improves alertness.
- Provigil (modafinil) is available in a cheaper, generic version.
- Provigil (modafinil) is good at decreasing excessive sleepiness in shift work sleep disorder.
- If you need to sleep in the daytime, this medication won't effect you.
Downsides
- Avoid alcohol since it can cause worsen side effects.
- Concerta (methylphenidate extended-release) is a controlled medication that can be habit-forming and lead to physical dependence.
- Cannot stop taking this drug all of a sudden without calling your doctor. You may have a greater risk of mood changes.
- Provigil (modafinil) can be habit forming, so it shouldn't be used for long-term treatment.
- Provigil (modafinil) is not a good choice if you have liver problems.
- May not be a good option if you are taking hormonal contraception like birth control pills.
Used for
- Narcolepsy
- Sleep apnea
- Shift work sleep disorder
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Major depressive disorder
- Multiple sclerosis-related fatigue
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Chewable tablet
- Dissolving tablet
- Liquid
- Pill
Price
Lowest price
$42.05
Find instant savings near youLowest price
$26.60
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Reviews
Not enough review data.Leave a review
28 reviews so far
82%
saidit'sworth it
71%
saiditworked well
4%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Provigil (modafinil)?
Leave a reviewSide effects
30possible side effects
- Lowered appetite25%
- Headache22%
- Dry mouth14%
- Nausea13%
- Loss of sleep12%
- Anxiety8%
- Weight loss7%
- Dizziness7%
- Irritability6%
- Fast heart rate5%
- Excessive sweating5%
- Initial insomnia4%
- Depressed mood4%
- Palpitations3%
- Tremor3%
- Nervousness3%
- Restlessness3%
- Vertigo2%
- Blurred vision2%
- Indigestion2%
- Vomiting2%
- Upper respiratory tract infection2%
- Inability to eat2%
- Muscle tightness2%
- Agitation2%
- Aggression2%
- Teeth grinding2%
- Depression2%
- Low sex drive2%
- Mouth and throat pain2%
25possible side effects
- Headache34%
- Nausea11%
- Nervousness7%
- Stuffy nose7%
- Back pain6%
- Diarrhea6%
- Indigestion5%
- Difficulty sleeping5%
- Anxiety5%
- Dizziness5%
- Flu symptoms4%
- Dry mouth4%
- Loss of appetite4%
- Throat inflammation4%
- Chest pain3%
- High blood pressure3%
- Fast heart beat2%
- Palpitation2%
- Dilation of blood vessels2%
- Constipation2%
- Abnormal liver function2%
- Depression2%
- Burning/tingling sensation2%
- Drowsiness2%
- Lung disorder2%
Risks and risk factors
- Serious or life-threatening heart problems
- History of heart problems
- Abuse and dependence
- History of drug abuse
- Alcoholism
- Aggressive behavior and psychiatric symptoms
- History of psychotic episodes
- History of bipolar disorder
- History of Tourette's syndrome
- Long-term growth suppression
- Children
- Seizures
- History of seizures
- Circulation problems in the hands and feet
- Serious allergic reactions
- Allergy to Provigil (modafinil)
- Heart problems
- History of heart problems
- Increased side effects
- Current kidney problems
- Current liver problems
- Driving impairment
- Taking with alcohol or drugs