Modafinil is a prescription wakefulness-promoting medication approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for conditions such as narcolepsy, shift work sleep disorder, and obstructive sleep apnea–related sleepiness. Its cost around the world varies dramatically due to differences in healthcare systems, regulatory environments, manufacturing, and insurance coverage.
Why Prices Differ by Country
The price you might pay for modafinil in one country can be very different from another—sometimes by a factor of 10 or more. Several broad factors contribute to this:
- Healthcare pricing systems: In some countries (like many in Europe or Australia), governments negotiate or regulate drug prices; in others (especially the United States), prices are set by manufacturers and insurers with less centralized control.
- Patent and generic availability: Generic versions are typically much cheaper than brand-name Provigil because manufacturers don’t have to recoup original research costs.
- Local manufacturing and distribution: Countries that import generic drugs from low-cost producers (such as India) often benefit from lower prices.
Typical Cost of Modafinil Ranges by Region
Here are representative patterns of modafinil cost around the world. Note these figures are approximate and can vary by pharmacy, dosage, insurance status, and discounts.
United States
- Generic modafinil: ~$25–$120 per monthly supply at retail pharmacies.
- Brand-name Provigil: Prices can exceed $900+ per month without insurance.
- Prices with discount cards or coupons may be substantially lower.
Actual cash prices at U.S. retail pharmacies often range from ~$0.55 to $30+ per tablet depending on pharmacy location and coupon availability.
Europe
In many EU countries, generic modafinil may cost roughly €2–€5 per tablet, significantly lower than in the U.S. market due to regulated pricing and competitive generics.
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India
A major reason for the wide global variation in modafinil pricing is the availability of Indian-manufactured generics. India’s pharmaceutical sector is one of the world’s largest producers of off-patent medications, including multiple branded versions of modafinil used domestically and internationally.
These formulations contain the same active compound as originator modafinil but are sold at substantially lower prices due to local manufacturing, regulated pricing, and market competition.
Common Indian Modafinil Brands
Modalert
Modalert is one of the most widely recognized Indian generic modafinil brands. It is typically available in 100 mg and 200 mg strengths and is commonly prescribed in India for narcolepsy and other sleep-wake disorders. Because of its long presence on the market, it is often used as a reference point when discussing global modafinil pricing.
Modvigil
Modvigil is another Indian generic modafinil formulation, generally positioned as a cost-competitive alternative within the same therapeutic class. It is less internationally known than Modalert but remains part of the broader Indian generic ecosystem supplying modafinil at scale.
Modafil MD
Modafil MD is typically sold in 100 mg orally disintegrating tablet form. It is often among the lower-priced registered modafinil products in India, reflecting both formulation differences and manufacturer pricing strategies.
Typical Retail Cost of modafinil in India (Indicative)
| Brand | Typical Cost (per tablet) | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Modalert (200 mg) | Low single-digit USD equivalent | Widely stocked, benchmark generic |
| Modawake | Similar or slightly lower | Varies by manufacturer |
| Modafil MD (100 mg) | Often lower than 200 mg forms | Budget-oriented option |
Exact pricing varies by pharmacy, dosage strength, and regional tax structures, but overall costs are dramatically lower than those seen in North America or many European countries.
Global Pricing Impact
Because these generics are manufactured at scale, Indian pricing often influences international cost comparisons. However, availability outside India depends on local regulations, prescription requirements, and import controls. Listings comparing such products are often grouped within broader resources like the Eugeroic drug list.
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Brand vs. Generic
Modafinil has long been marketed under the brand name Provigil, but generics became widely available after patent expiry. Generics are required to meet strict bioequivalence standards, meaning they work the same but typically cost much less.
The price gap between branded and generic versions is often dramatic:
| Version | Approx. Cost (monthly) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Provigil | Often hundreds to thousands (USD) | Higher due to branding and original manufacturer pricing |
| Generic modafinil | Tens to low hundreds (USD/€) | Common and more affordable |
| Bulk & discount prices | < $1–$2 per pill | When available via programs or negotiating |
Insurance & Out-of-Pocket Costs
Where you live and your insurance situation matter a lot:
- In the U.S., insurance coverage can drastically reduce out-of-pocket costs, but many plans require prior authorization or place modafinil on higher copay tiers.
- In countries with nationally funded healthcare, prescription medications may be subsidized or capped, further reducing personal cost.
- Without insurance, retail prices can be significantly higher, especially for branded forms.
Global Pricing Context
International investigations into drug prices consistently find significant cross-country variation for prescription medicines. Reports such as those conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and partnering agencies show that global comparison of drug prices helps understand affordability and access.
What Influences Price Differences?
Several systemic and market forces shape modafinil cost:
- Regulatory burden: Costs to secure approval in each market differ, and where regulation is strict, prices can be higher.
- Competition: More generic entrants tend to push prices down; fewer competitors may keep prices elevated.
- Distribution systems: Pharmacy markups, supply chain costs, and negotiated reimbursements influence final patient cost.
Safety & Access Considerations
It’s crucial to distinguish between legally prescribed medications and unverified sources online. Some websites offer lower prices by bypassing legitimate prescription controls—but such practices carry safety and legal risks. Always obtain modafinil through licensed healthcare providers and pharmacies.
Takeaway
Modafinil’s price varies widely—from relatively low cost per tablet in many European or generic markets to high retail prices in the United States without insurance. Brand-name Provigil typically costs much more than generic equivalents, and individual out-of-pocket costs depend on local healthcare systems, insurance coverage, and pharmacy choice.
Understanding these regional dynamics helps patients and clinicians make informed decisions about access and budgeting for treatment.