From the Guidelines
Yes, modafinil tablets can be split, as they are designed with a score line down the middle, allowing for easy division into two equal parts if needed. Modafinil (commonly sold as Provigil) is typically available in 100mg and 200mg tablets, and splitting them can be useful for dose adjustments, such as when starting at a lower dose of 50mg or 100mg instead of the full 200mg, or when tapering off the medication 1. To split the tablet properly, use a pill cutter or a clean knife on a clean surface, and split along the score line. Store any unused portions in the original container or another suitable medication container to maintain potency. The split tablets should maintain their effectiveness as the active ingredient is generally distributed evenly throughout the tablet. However, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose, as they can provide guidance specific to your medical needs and circumstances 1.
Some key points to consider when splitting modafinil tablets include:
- Using a pill cutter or a clean knife on a clean surface to split the tablet
- Splitting the tablet along the score line to ensure equal division
- Storing unused portions in a suitable container to maintain potency
- Consulting with your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose
It's also important to note that modafinil has been studied for its use in treating cancer-related fatigue, and has shown promise in reducing fatigue in patients with breast cancer and other types of cancer 1. However, the primary consideration when splitting modafinil tablets should be the individual patient's medical needs and circumstances, rather than the specific condition being treated.
From the FDA Drug Label
Modafinil Tablets, USP 200 mg – White to off white round shaped uncoated tablet scored on the one side with AC above and 133 below and plain on other side The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Modafinil Tablet Splitting
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that specifically addresses the splitting of modafinil tablets 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, a study on tablet splitting in general found that there is little evidence to support concerns regarding tablet splitting, except for sustained-release tablets and older adults who may struggle to split tablets 3.
- Modafinil is not a sustained-release medication, but rather an immediate-release tablet, which suggests that splitting may be possible without affecting the drug's release mechanism.
- It is essential to note that modafinil tablets should only be split if necessary and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as they may have specific instructions or recommendations for splitting the tablets.
Pharmacology and Safety of Modafinil
- Modafinil is a wake-promoting agent with a unique mechanism of action that is different from other stimulants 2, 4, 6.
- The drug has been shown to be effective in treating excessive daytime sleepiness in patients with narcolepsy, shift work sleep disorder, and obstructive sleep apnea 2, 4, 6.
- Modafinil has a relatively good safety profile, with common adverse events including insomnia, headache, nausea, nervousness, and hypertension 2, 4, 6.
- However, serious concerns have been raised about the potential for modafinil dependence, and further research is needed to characterize the long-term effects of the drug 6.