{"id":4155,"date":"2019-05-23T11:53:52","date_gmt":"2019-05-23T15:53:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=4155"},"modified":"2022-05-10T10:30:48","modified_gmt":"2022-05-10T14:30:48","slug":"nuvigil-vs-adderall","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/nuvigil-vs-adderall\/","title":{"rendered":"Nuvigil vs. Adderall: Differences, similarities, and which is better for you"},"content":{"rendered":"

Drug overview & main differences<\/a> | Conditions treated<\/a> | Efficacy<\/a> | Insurance coverage and cost comparison<\/a> | Side effects<\/a> | Drug interactions<\/a> | Warnings<\/a> | FAQ<\/a><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re living with a <\/span>sleep disorder<\/span> like <\/span>narcolepsy<\/span><\/a>, you may need to take certain medications to help you stay awake. <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> (<\/span>armodafinil<\/span>) and <\/span>Adderall<\/span> (amphetamine and <\/span>dextroamphetamine<\/span>) are <\/span>prescription drugs<\/span> that can help reduce <\/span>excessive daytime sleepiness<\/span> caused by <\/span>narcolepsy<\/span>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Both drugs work as <\/span>central nervous system<\/span> (CNS) <\/span>stimulants<\/span><\/a> that can help improve <\/span>wakefulness<\/span> and increase alertness. The exact way in which they work is not entirely known. However, these <\/span>stimulants<\/span> are believed to indirectly increase the levels of certain <\/span>neurotransmitters<\/span>, such as <\/span>dopamine<\/span> and <\/span>norepinephrine<\/span>, in the brain.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Although they have similar effects and work in similar ways, <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> and <\/span>Adderall<\/span> are dosed differently and have different formulations. They also differ in potential <\/span>side effects<\/span> and <\/span>drug interactions<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Continue reading to learn more about how <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> and <\/span>Adderall<\/span> are different and similar.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What are the main differences between Nuvigil vs. Adderall<\/h2>\n

They contain different active ingredients<\/span><\/h3>\n

Nuvigil<\/span><\/a> contains <\/span>armodafinil<\/span>, the R-<\/span>enantiomer<\/span> of <\/span>modafinil<\/span> (known by the <\/span>brand name<\/span> Provigil<\/span><\/a>). <\/span>Armodafinil<\/span> and <\/span>modafinil<\/span><\/a> are <\/span>enantiomers<\/span> or a pair of molecules that are mirror images of one another.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adderall<\/span><\/a> contains a combination of <\/span>dextroamphetamine<\/span> and <\/span>amphetamine salts<\/span>. Specifically, <\/span>Adderall<\/span> contains <\/span>dextroamphetamine<\/span> saccharate, <\/span>dextroamphetamine<\/span> sulfate, amphetamine aspartate, and amphetamine sulfate.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

They have different formulations<\/span><\/h3>\n

Nuvigil<\/span> is currently available as an oral tablet in strengths of 50 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, and 250 mg. <\/span>Adderall<\/span> is available as an oral tablet in strengths of 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg. <\/span>Adderall<\/span> also comes as an extended-release capsule called <\/span>Adderall XR<\/span>, which is available in strengths of 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, and 30 mg.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

They have different risks of abuse<\/span><\/h3>\n

Nuvigil<\/span> is classified as a <\/span>Schedule IV<\/span> controlled substance<\/span><\/a> by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). <\/span>Adderall<\/span> is classified as a Schedule II <\/span>controlled substance<\/span>. In other words, <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> carries a lower risk of abuse than <\/span>Adderall<\/span>. Those who abuse these drugs may develop physical or psychological dependence, especially if the drugs are not taken as prescribed.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

They are dosed differently<\/span><\/h3>\n

Nuvigil<\/span> is usually taken once per day. <\/span>Adderall<\/span>, on the other hand, may need to be taken up to two or three times per day to remain effective.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Main differences between Nuvigil and Adderall<\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
<\/td>\nNuvigil<\/b><\/td>\nAdderall<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Drug class<\/b><\/td>\nStimulant<\/span>-like drug<\/span>
\nWakefulness<\/span> promoting agent<\/span><\/td>\n		Stimulant<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brand\/generic status<\/b><\/td>\nBrand and generic version available<\/span><\/td>\nBrand and generic version available<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What is the generic name?<\/b><\/td>\nArmodafinil<\/span><\/td>\nDextroamphetamine<\/span>\/levoamphetamine<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What form(s) does the drug come in?<\/b><\/td>\nOral tablet<\/span><\/td>\nOral tablet<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
What is the standard dosage?<\/b><\/td>\nFor <\/span>obstructive sleep apnea<\/span> or <\/span>narcolepsy<\/span>:\u00a0<\/span>
\n150 to 250 mg once per day in the morning<\/span>
\nFor shift work disorder:\u00a0<\/span>
\n150 mg once per day 1 hour before starting work shift<\/span><\/td>\n		For <\/span>ADHD<\/span>:<\/span>
\n5 mg once or twice daily. Dosage may be increased by 5 mg in weekly intervals<\/span>
\nFor <\/span>narcolepsy<\/span>:<\/span>
\n5 to 60 mg per day in divided doses<\/span>
\nDosage may vary depending on the age of the person<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
How long is the typical treatment?<\/b><\/td>\nLong term or as directed by a physician<\/span><\/td>\nLong term or as directed by a physician<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Who typically uses the medication?<\/b><\/td>\nAdults and young adults 17 years and older<\/span><\/td>\nAdults and children 3 years and older<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Conditions treated by Nuvigil and Adderall<\/h2>\n

Nuvigil<\/span> is primarily used as a <\/span>wakefulness<\/span>-promoting agent. It is approved by the <\/span>Food and Drug Administration<\/span> (<\/span>FDA<\/span>) for <\/span>sleep disorders<\/span>, such as <\/span>narcolepsy<\/span> and shift work disorder. <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> is also approved to treat <\/span>obstructive sleep apnea<\/span> (<\/span>OSA<\/span>)<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Like <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span>, <\/span>Adderall<\/span> is <\/span>FDA<\/span>-approved for <\/span>narcolepsy<\/span>. However, <\/span>Adderall<\/span> is primarily used to treat <\/span>attention deficit hyperactivity disorder<\/span> (<\/span>ADHD<\/span>)<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Condition<\/b><\/td>\nNuvigil<\/b><\/td>\nAdderall<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
ADHD<\/span><\/td>\nOff-label<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Narcolepsy<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Shift work sleep disorder<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nOff-label<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
OSA<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nOff-label<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Is Nuvigil or Adderall more effective?<\/h2>\n

Compared to <\/span>placebo<\/span>, <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> and <\/span>Adderall<\/span> are effective <\/span>prescription drugs<\/span> for <\/span>narcolepsy<\/span>. There are few head-to-head studies, if any, that compare the effectiveness of <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> and <\/span>Adderall<\/span>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

One study<\/span><\/a> discussed the use of the active ingredients of <\/span>Provigil<\/span>, <\/span>Adderall<\/span>, and <\/span>Ritalin<\/span> for <\/span>excessive daytime sleepiness<\/span>. <\/span>Stimulants<\/span>, especially <\/span>modafinil<\/span>, may help accelerate recovery and improve <\/span>sleepiness<\/span> in people who are critically ill. While <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> and <\/span>Adderall<\/span> are effective drugs, other alternatives are available and <\/span>being developed to help relieve <\/span>sleep disorders<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Nuvigil<\/span> has a longer <\/span>half-life<\/span> than <\/span>Adderall<\/span> (<\/span>15 hours<\/span><\/a> versus <\/span>10 to 14 hours<\/span><\/a>). Therefore, <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> stays in the body with effects that last longer than those of <\/span>Adderall<\/span>. <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> only needs to be taken as a single dose, while <\/span>Adderall<\/span> may have to be taken a few times throughout the day.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As with all drugs, it\u2019s important to seek advice from a <\/span>healthcare<\/span> provider before taking a drug like <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> or <\/span>Adderall<\/span>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Coverage and cost comparison of Nuvigil vs. Adderall<\/h2>\n

Nuvigil<\/span> is not usually covered under health insurance plans as a <\/span>brand-name<\/span> drug. Instead, some plans may cover the generic version of the drug. Without insurance coverage, <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> can cost an average of\u00a0 $1,120 for 30, 250 mg tablets. Using a savings option like the <\/span>SingleCare discount card for <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span><\/a> may help bring the cost down to around $40.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adderall<\/span> is not usually covered as a <\/span>brand-name<\/span> drug since a generic version is available. Most Medicare and insurance plans will help cover the cost of the generic version. <\/span>Adderall<\/span> can cost an average retail price of $315 for 30, 20 mg tablets. Using a <\/span>Adderall SingleCare discount card<\/span><\/a> could lower the cost to around $15.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
<\/td>\nNuvigil<\/b><\/td>\nAdderall<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically covered by insurance?<\/b><\/td>\nYes, the generic<\/span><\/td>\nYes, the generic<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typically covered by Medicare Part D?<\/b><\/td>\nYes, the generic<\/span><\/td>\nYes, the generic<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Quantity<\/b><\/td>\n30, 250 mg tablets<\/span><\/td>\n30, 20 mg tablets<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Typical Medicare copay<\/b><\/td>\n$15\u2013$217<\/span><\/td>\n$7\u2013$78<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
SingleCare cost<\/b><\/td>\n$40+<\/span><\/td>\n$15+<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Common side effects of Nuvigil vs. Adderall<\/h2>\n

The most <\/span>common side effects<\/span> of <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> are headache, dizziness, nausea, and insomnia. The most <\/span>common side effects<\/span> of <\/span>Adderall<\/span> are stomach pain, decreased appetite, and anxiety.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Explore other <\/span>side effects<\/span> of <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> and <\/span>Adderall<\/span> in the table below.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
<\/td>\nNuvigil<\/b><\/td>\nAdderall<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Side Effect<\/b><\/td>\nApplicable?<\/b><\/td>\nFrequency<\/b><\/td>\nApplicable?<\/b><\/td>\nFrequency<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Headache<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n17%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n*<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Insomnia<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n5%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n*<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Stomach pain<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n2%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n*<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Decreased appetite<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n*<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nausea<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n7%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n*<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Anxiety<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n4%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n*<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Depression<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n2%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n*<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Palpitations<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n2%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n*<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Increased <\/span>heart rate<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n1%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n*<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Dizziness<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n5%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n*<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Dry mouth<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n4%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n*<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Diarrhea<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n4%<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n*<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Taste disturbances<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n–<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n*<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Frequency is not based on data from a head-to-head trial. This may not be a complete list of adverse effects that can occur. Please refer to your doctor or <\/span><\/i>healthcare<\/span><\/i> provider to learn more.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

*not reported<\/span><\/p>\n

Source: DailyMed (<\/span>Nuvigil<\/span><\/a>), DailyMed (<\/span>Adderall<\/span><\/a>)<\/span><\/p>\n

Drug interactions of Nuvigil vs. Adderall<\/h2>\n

Nuvigil<\/span> and <\/span>Adderall<\/span> can interact with many of the same drugs. If <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> or <\/span>Adderall<\/span> is taken with a <\/span>monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)<\/span><\/a>, there is a risk of hypertensive crisis or extremely <\/span>high blood pressure<\/span> that can lead to a stroke. <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> and <\/span>Adderall<\/span> should be avoided with MAOIs or within 14 days of taking an MAOI.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Nuvigil<\/span> and <\/span>Adderall<\/span> can interact with <\/span>omeprazole<\/span><\/a>, a drug often used to treat acid reflux. Taking <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> and omeprazole can lead to increased levels of omeprazole in the blood, which may lead to increased <\/span>side effects<\/span> of omeprazole. Taking <\/span>Adderall<\/span> with omeprazole can lead to faster absorption of <\/span>Adderall<\/span> in the body, which may lead to increased <\/span>side effects<\/span> of <\/span>Adderall<\/span>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Nuvigil<\/span> may decrease the effectiveness of <\/span>hormonal contraceptives<\/span><\/a>. <\/span>Healthcare<\/span> providers may recommend using other methods of contraception while taking <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> and for one month after stopping <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span>. <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> may also decrease the blood levels and effectiveness of cyclosporine, an immunosuppressant used to prevent the rejection of a transplanted organ.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Taking amphetamines with serotonergic drugs like antidepressants can increase the risk of <\/span>serotonin syndrome<\/span><\/a>. Amphetamines can also decrease the effectiveness of <\/span>high blood pressure<\/span> medications. It is best to monitor the use of <\/span>Adderall<\/span> with serotonergic drugs and <\/span>high blood pressure<\/span> medications<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Drug<\/b><\/td>\nDrug Class<\/b><\/td>\nNuvigil<\/b><\/td>\nAdderall<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Isocarboxazid<\/span>
\nPhenelzine<\/span>
\nSelegiline<\/span><\/td>\n		Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Omeprazole<\/span><\/td>\nProton pump inhibitors (PPIs)<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Ethinyl estradiol<\/span>
\nNorethindrone<\/span><\/td>\n		Hormonal contraceptives<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cyclosporine<\/span><\/td>\nImmunosuppressants<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Sertraline<\/span>
\nFentanyl<\/span>
\nLithium<\/span>
\nNortriptyline<\/span>
\nSt. John\u2019s wort<\/span><\/td>\n		Serotonergic drugs<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Lisinopril<\/span>
\nBenazepril<\/span>
\nCandesartan<\/span>
\nLosartan<\/span><\/td>\n		Antihypertensives<\/span><\/td>\nNo<\/span><\/td>\nYes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

This may not be a complete list of all possible <\/span><\/i>drug interactions<\/span><\/i>. Consult a <\/span><\/i>healthcare<\/span><\/i> provider with all medications you may be taking.\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Warnings of Nuvigil and Adderall<\/h2>\n

People with known cardiovascular disease, heart disease, or <\/span>high blood pressure<\/span> should use caution while taking <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> or <\/span>Adderall<\/span>. Taking <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> or <\/span>Adderall<\/span> may increase the risk of <\/span>high blood pressure<\/span>, increased <\/span>heart rate<\/span>, stroke, and heart attacks in people with cardiovascular disease. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience <\/span>chest pain<\/span>, fainting, or shortness of breath.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The use of <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> or <\/span>Adderall<\/span> may increase the risk of psychiatric events, such as hallucinations, delusional thinking, mania, depression, and aggression. The risk of these events is higher in people with a history of <\/span>mental health<\/span> disorders, including <\/span>bipolar disorder<\/span><\/a> and depression.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In rare cases, <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> or <\/span>Adderall<\/span> can cause an <\/span>allergic reaction<\/span>. Serious skin rashes, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, have also been reported with the use of <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> and <\/span>Adderall<\/span>.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The use of <\/span>Adderall<\/span> carries a risk of other <\/span>serious side effects<\/span>, such as <\/span>serotonin syndrome<\/span><\/a>, growth suppression (in children), and visual disturbances.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Consult with a <\/span>healthcare<\/span> provider about other warnings and precautions associated with <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> and <\/span>Adderall<\/span>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Frequently asked questions about Nuvigil vs. Adderall<\/h2>\n

What is <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span>?<\/span><\/h3>\n

Nuvigil<\/span> is a <\/span>stimulant<\/span> drug that is used as a <\/span>wakefulness<\/span>-promoting agent. The generic name of <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> is <\/span>armodafinil<\/span>. The effects of <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> are similar to the <\/span>effects of modafinil<\/span>, but the effects of <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> last longer. <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> is manufactured by <\/span>Cephalon<\/span>. It is available as an oral tablet that is taken once daily for <\/span>sleep disorders<\/span>.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What is <\/span>Adderall<\/span>?<\/span><\/h3>\n

Adderall<\/span> is a <\/span>stimulant<\/span> drug that is primarily used to treat <\/span>ADHD<\/span>. It is also <\/span>FDA<\/span>-approved to treat <\/span>narcolepsy<\/span>. <\/span>Adderall<\/span> is a <\/span>brand-name<\/span> drug that contains a combination of <\/span>amphetamine salts<\/span>. It is manufactured by Teva, and it is available as an oral tablet that is taken up to a few times per day. An extended-release version of <\/span>Adderall<\/span> is available called <\/span>Adderall XR<\/span>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Are <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> and <\/span>Adderall<\/span> the same?<\/span><\/h3>\n

Nuvigil<\/span> and <\/span>Adderall<\/span> have similar <\/span>stimulant<\/span> effects, but they are not the same. <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> is primarily used to treat <\/span>sleep disorders<\/span> like <\/span>narcolepsy<\/span> and shift work disorder. <\/span>Adderall<\/span> is primarily used to treat <\/span>ADHD<\/span>. Both drugs are available as oral tablets that are taken by mouth.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Is <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> or <\/span>Adderall<\/span> better?<\/span><\/h3>\n

Nuvigil<\/span> and <\/span>Adderall<\/span> are both effective drugs for <\/span>narcolepsy<\/span>. However, the effects of <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> last longer than those of <\/span>Adderall<\/span>. <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> can be taken once daily, while <\/span>Adderall<\/span> may need to be taken two to three times per day. <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> may be preferred for its once-daily dosing. It\u2019s best to consult with a <\/span>healthcare<\/span> provider to determine which drug would work best for you.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Can I use <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> or <\/span>Adderall<\/span> while pregnant?<\/span><\/h3>\n

Taking any <\/span>stimulant<\/span> drug may increase the risk of birth defects and other problems in an unborn baby. The effects of <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> during pregnancy are not widely known, but <\/span>animal studies<\/span><\/a> suggest the use of <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> can be harmful to an unborn baby. The use of <\/span>Adderall<\/span> during pregnancy may lead to <\/span>low birth weight<\/span><\/a> and other problems in an unborn baby. Consult with a <\/span>healthcare<\/span> provider before using a <\/span>stimulant<\/span> drug while pregnant or breastfeeding.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Can I use <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> or <\/span>Adderall<\/span> with alcohol?<\/span><\/h3>\n

Nuvigil<\/span> and <\/span>Adderall<\/span> are generally used to increase alertness and focus. Alcohol can cause CNS depressant effects, such as drowsiness and dizziness, that can alter the effectiveness of <\/span>stimulants<\/span>. Alcohol is also an addictive substance. Drinking alcohol should be avoided with <\/span>prescription drugs<\/span> that can be abused.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Can <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> be used for <\/span>ADHD<\/span>?<\/span><\/h3>\n

Nuvigil<\/span> has a similar <\/span>mechanism of action<\/span> to that of other drugs used for <\/span>ADHD<\/span>. Although it\u2019s not <\/span>FDA<\/span> approved to treat <\/span>ADHD<\/span>, some <\/span>healthcare<\/span> providers may prescribe it <\/span>off-label<\/span> as a cognitive <\/span>enhancer<\/span>. No definitive studies have assessed the use of <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> for <\/span>ADHD<\/span>. However, some <\/span>clinical trials<\/span> have shown that <\/span>modafinil<\/span>, a close cousin of <\/span>armodafinil<\/span>, is <\/span>similarly effective<\/span><\/a> to <\/span>dextroamphetamine<\/span> for treating <\/span>ADHD<\/span>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Is <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> a <\/span>stimulant<\/span>?<\/span><\/h3>\n

Yes, <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> is considered a CNS <\/span>stimulant<\/span>. However, <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> is also classified as a <\/span>wakefulness<\/span>-promoting agent. <\/span>Nuvigil<\/span> has a chemical makeup different from that of other <\/span>stimulants<\/span> used to treat <\/span>ADHD<\/span>.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Drug overview & main differences | Conditions treated | Efficacy | Insurance coverage and cost comparison | Side effects | Drug interactions | Warnings | FAQ If you\u2019re living with a sleep disorder like narcolepsy, you may need to take certain medications to help you stay awake. Nuvigil (armodafinil) and Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) are […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":11642,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[8313],"tags":[4350,816],"coauthors":[8669],"class_list":["post-4155","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drug-vs-drug","tag-prescription-savings","tag-sleep","wpautop"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nNuvigil vs. Adderall: Differences, similarities, and which is better for you<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Nuvigil and Adderall treat narcolepsy but work in different ways. 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