MODAFINIL

Modafinil is FDA-approved for narcolepsy and sleep disorders and has been explored for off-label uses including ADHD, cognitive dysfunction, and substance use disorders. A randomized controlled trial in healthy individuals found no significant cognitive enhancement effect of modafinil across tested domains, while other studies in clinical populations suggest benefits for working memory and episodic memory. Systematic reviews of modafinil for post-stroke recovery and cocaine dependence show mixed or very low-quality evidence, with no clear superiority over placebo for most outcomes. Modafinil is generally well-tolerated with a low rate of adverse events and low abuse liability, though anxiety and dropout due to adverse events have been reported. Long-term effects remain insufficiently studied.