Compare Focalin vs. Provigil
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.
Treats attention deficit disorder.
Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) effectively treats ADHD, and is usually recommended if first-line ADHD medications don't work for you.
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3.3/ 5 average rating with 141 reviewsforFocalin
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
- Effectively treats ADHD in children and adults.
- Extended release capsules can be opened and sprinkled in applesauce for people who don't like swallowing pills.
- The extended release pill is available in many strengths and allows for personalized dosing.
- Available as a generic, so it should be reasonably priced.
- 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
- Not carried by all pharmacies and may need to be special ordered for you.
- Decreased appetite in children may affect their growth.
- Requires a new prescription from your doctor every month so it may be a hassle for some people.
- Has the potential for abuse, misuse, and dependence.
- 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
- Extended release
- Pill
Price
Lowest price
$77.90
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$20.90
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Reviews
141 reviews so far
55%
saidit'sworth it
35%
saiditworked well
21%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)?
Leave a review28 reviews so far
82%
saidit'sworth it
71%
saiditworked well
4%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Provigil (modafinil)?
Leave a reviewSide effects
The Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
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
- Abuse and dependence
- History of substance abuse
- Serious or life-threatening cardiovascular events
- History of heart problems
- Aggressive behavior and psychosis
- History of psychotic episodes
- History of bipolar Disorder
- Long-term growth suppression
- Seizures
- History of seizures
- Blood circulation problems
- 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