Modafinil is a prescription medicine used to improve wakefulness in adults with excessive sleepiness associated with narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, or shift work disorder. Do not take modafinil if you are allergic to modafinil or armodafinil.

Serious skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and serious allergic reactions have been reported with modafinil. Stop taking modafinil and contact your healthcare provider at the first sign of a rash unless the rash is clearly not drug-related. Get emergency medical help for symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing or swallowing.

Modafinil may cause or worsen psychiatric symptoms, including depression, anxiety, mania, hallucinations, or suicidal thoughts, and cardiovascular effects may occur. Tell your healthcare provider about any history of mental health or heart conditions, drug or alcohol misuse, liver problems, or pregnancy.

Modafinil may not completely resolve sleepiness. Use caution when driving or performing other potentially dangerous activities until you know how modafinil affects you.

Modafinil is a controlled substance (C-IV) and may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives during treatment and for one month after stopping treatment. Alternative or additional methods of contraception may be needed.

Modafinil is a controlled substance (C-IV) and may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives during treatment and for one month after stopping treatment. Alternative or additional methods of contraception may be needed.

Common side effects include headache, nausea, nervousness, anxiety, and trouble sleeping.