Concerta is a prescription medication used for the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and Modafinil is a prescription medication used to treat excessive tiredness caused by sleep apnea or narcolepsy. Both medications have a relatively low potential for abuse in comparison to other medications that serve similar functions, though they can both be habit-forming if abused for a prolonged period. Because Modafinil and Concerta have stimulant effects, some people might be inclined to take the two medications together to increase their efficacy. If they do not feel as alert as they would like to feel after taking Concerta, for example, they might take Modafinil to increase alertness or energy levels even further.
More About Concerta and Modafinil
However, it is important to note that taking any medication other than as prescribed by a medical professional does constitute drug abuse, and should never be attempted. Additionally, both of these medications can cause withdrawal symptoms if they are abused for any significant period. If you have been combining these two medications you are not only at risk of dependence – but also of experiencing severely unpleasant withdrawal symptoms if use is suddenly stopped. Even though these medications pose no serious risk of life-threatening interactions, you should avoid taking them together for these reasons.
Dangers of Mixing Concerta and Modafinil
Mixing two medications is never a good idea without the instruction of a medical professional. Mixing two medications is generally known as polydrug abuse especially when it comes to stimulants, and the associated side effects can be quite severe. If you have been mixing these two prescriptions or any others, it is a good idea to seek professional help before drug abuse evolves into physical and psychological dependence.
Mixing Stimulants Like Concerta and Modafinil
When it comes to prescription medications like Concerta or Modafinil, it is possible to develop a physical dependence even when you are taking the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor’s physician. Some common symptoms of physical dependence include a tolerance, meaning that a higher dose of the medication is required for the desired effect to be achieved, or experiencing withdrawal symptoms when the dosage is cut back or you stop taking the medication altogether. Individually, the withdrawal symptoms associated with these medications are generally not life-threatening. However, combining two medications that are not meant to be combined will undeniably result in more severe withdrawal symptoms that can result in life-threatening complications if left untreated. If you or someone close to you has been experimenting with prescription medications or combining medications that are meant to be combined, reach out to us today for more information on getting help. Taking Concerta and Modafinil together can result in the following side effects:
- An increased heart rate
- Heart palpitations
- Increased blood pressure
- Flushing of the skin
- A low-grade fever and slightly increased body temperature
- Trembling and uncontrollable shaking
- Severe and persistent headaches
- Insomnia and other sleep-related issues
- Loss of appetite, which can lead to noticeable weight loss over time
Evoke Wellness at Miramar and Prescription Drug Recovery
At Evoke Wellness at Miramar, we have extensive experience treating prescription drug abuse disorders of all types and severities, and we understand how devastating prescription drug addiction can be. Unfortunately, many individuals believe that because medications like Concerta and Modafinil were initially prescribed by a trusted medical professional, they cannot be harmful or addictive. The truth is that when any medication is taken other than as prescribed or intended, it can result in a wide range of serious consequences – including addiction. If you or someone you know has been combining these medications, it is important to seek professional help as quickly as possible. Simply give us a call today for more information on our treatment program or on what steps to take to overcome prescription drug addiction once and for all.