Does Modafinil Raise Blood Pressure

If you are planning to start with a Modafinil treatment regimen but are concerned about the the effects of blood pressure. This blog explores the effect of Modafinil on the heart and blood pressure with proper research

What Is Modafinil?

Modafinil is a prescription medication used to treat excessive somnolence associated with various sleep disorders like narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, and shift work sleep disorder.
Modafinil also has off-label uses including for ADHD, chronic fatigue syndrome, bipolar disorder, and cognitive enhancement. It is available under the brand names Modalert, Modvigil, Provigil, etc.[1]. 

Modafinil And Blood Pressure: Know The Basics

Blood pressure measures the flow of blood through the circulatory system and is categorized into two parts:

• Systolic blood pressure is the pressure created when the heart muscles contract.
• Diastolic blood pressure is the pressure created when the heart muscles relax.

Blood pressure is measured in mmHg. For eg- A reading of 120/80 mmHg indicating 120 as the systolic pressure and 80 is the diastolic pressure[2].  

But how is Modafinil related to blood pressure?

Studies indicating Modafinil’s impact on cardiovascular health are citted below-
 

According to a study by J. Heitman et al., consuming Modafinil for a short time showed cardiovascular effects during mental and physical load. Another study from 2005 found that Modafinil elevated blood pressure in people taking 400 mg of Modafinil per day.
Therefore, Modafinil is associated with causing hypertension, a condition characterized by high blood pressure (>130/80 mmHg).

How Does Modafinil Raise Blood Pressure?

Yes, a higher dosage of Modafinil can increase the blood pressure. The maximum dosage limit of Modafinil is 400 mg/day. Overdosing on Modafinil increases the chances of experiencing tachycardia, hypertension, and tremors.

Can You Take Modafinil For High Blood Pressure?

No, you cannot take Modafinil for high blood pressure, as it increases your blood pressure. Also, Modafinil is a brain stimulant and not approved for managing blood pressure.  

Is Modafinil Bad For Your Heart?

Yes, Modafinil is bad for your heart health. A study published in the 2014 Journal Research stated that Modafinil increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death. It forms blood clots or blockages that obstruct the blood flow to the heart, which leads to heart attack. Modafinil also generates specific heart attack symptoms like- chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, and vomiting.

Therefore, people suffering from particular pre-existing heart conditions should always consult their physicians before taking the medication [3].

Modafinil Side Effects Associated with Blood Pressure

Five important Modafinil Side Effects Associated with Blood Pressure are listed below-  

1. Chest Pain
2. Trouble in breathing,
3. Nausea 
4. Vomiting
5. Irregular heartbeat or fast-pounding heart

Modafinil can’t be used in patients with high blood pressure and heart problems. Thus, for people suffering from arrhythmia or moderate to severe hypertension, the use of Modafinil should be restricted.

If your blood pressure is 100 mmHg or more, Modafinil should not be prescribed. However, if any of the symptoms occur it is advised to visit a nearby hospital or consult your doctor.

Are Stimulants Harmful To Your Heart?

Dr. Peter Coehen, an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, stated that stimulants cause the heart to beat faster, with greater force, leading to a rise in blood pressure.
Many researchers noted that 40% of the patients taking Modafinil are more likely to end up in an emergency room or hospital with a severe heart complication within 30 days of starting the drug.
 

Difference Of Modafinil In Comparison To Other Stimulant Drugs
 

The three basic differences of Modafinil in comparison to other stimulant drugs are given below: 

• Modafinil, when compared to Adrafinil, has much milder and fewer side effects. It belongs to a schedule IV controlled substance with a low possibility of abuse. 
• It is a cost-efficient and effective solution for off-label uses like- ADHD, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Depression, Weight Loss, etc.
• You can purchase Modafinil Online with discreet packaging from mymodalert at affordable prices and discounts to avail yourself of both the clinical and off-label benefits.

Does Modafinil Raise Blood Pressure: Our Final Verdict  

Modafinil is a stimulant that raises the level of blood pressure if taken at a higher amount.It might also cause irregular heartbeat, chest pain, high blood pressure and even a heart attack. People with existing heart diseases or cardio vascular issues ( such as arrhythmia) are advised to consult their doctor before taking Modafinil.