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Compare Provigil vs. Ritalin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Provigil (modafinil) and Ritalin (methylphenidate) are both stimulant medications. Both medications are approved to treat extreme sleepiness from narcolepsy. Provigil is also approved to treat sleepiness from obstructive sleep apnea and shift work disorder. And Ritalin is approved to treat ADHD (attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder). Provigil is taken once a day for narcolepsy, while Ritalin is usually taken a few times a day. In general, Provigil is a first-choice medication for narcolepsy. While both medications are controlled substances, Provigil is considered less likely to cause dependence and misuse than Adderall.

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