Read Off Label rates the evidence for Modafinil as Strong and the benefit magnitude as med-high, producing an overall grade of B+ (7.4/10). Battleday & Brem 2015 reviewed ~24 studies; benefits most consistent on tasks requiring sustained attention and executive function.

Modafinil has a low-med risk profile in published human data. Legal status: Rx (Schedule IV US). This is not medical advice — see the disclaimer.

Modafinil

Cognitive · Wakefulness-promoting

Also known as: Provigil

Tier B+

Reviewed by Read Off Label · Last reviewed Jun 8, 2026 · How we grade

gabacontrolled-substanceprescription

7.4 / 10

Tier B+

Ev 8 Bn 6.5 Sf 7

Bottom line

Read Off Label grades Modafinil as B+ (7.4/10) based on strong evidence, med-high benefit magnitude, and a low-med-risk safety profile.

Battleday & Brem 2015 reviewed ~24 studies; benefits most consistent on tasks requiring sustained attention and executive function.

Typical use: 100-400 mg PO once daily morning — Rx.

What this is

Battleday & Brem 2015 reviewed ~24 studies; benefits most consistent on tasks requiring sustained attention and executive function. Minor US Schedule IV scheduling. Popular off-label cognitive enhancer among knowledge workers and military. Reduces sleep pressure markers.

Mechanism

Weak DAT inhibitor; complex orexinergic, histaminergic, glutamatergic, and GABAergic effects; promotes wakefulness with lower abuse potential than amphetamines

Dose & route

100-400 mg PO once daily morning

Citations

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Common questions

Does Modafinil work?: Read Off Label rates the evidence for Modafinil as Strong and the benefit magnitude as med-high, producing an overall grade of B+ (7.4/10). Battleday & Brem 2015 reviewed ~24 studies; benefits most consistent on tasks requiring sustained attention and executive function.
Is Modafinil safe?: Modafinil has a low-med risk profile in published human data. Legal status: Rx (Schedule IV US). This is not medical advice — see the disclaimer.
What is the typical dose for Modafinil?: 100-400 mg PO once daily morning
How does Modafinil work?: Weak DAT inhibitor; complex orexinergic, histaminergic, glutamatergic, and GABAergic effects; promotes wakefulness with lower abuse potential than amphetamines

This is an independent synthesis of published research by a non-clinician. Scores are opinions supported by citations, not prescriptions. See the full disclaimer and methodology for how this score was produced and what it does and doesn't mean.