Modafinil sold without prescription across city

The drug, meant for treating sleep disorders, is being used by students and professionals to increase productivity levels

- Ankit Pandey

Modafinil, a prescription drug intended to treat sleep disorders like narcolepsy and sleep apnea, is readily available over the counter at medical shops near major hospitals in Ahmedabad. This "smart drug", as it is often called, is being misused by students and professionals to increase productivity and stay awake for extended periods.

During a Mirror investigation outside Asarwa Civil Hospital, chemists showed no concern for prescriptions, typically asking buyers only about the quantity needed. While tablets are not sold loose, buyers are required to purchase a full pack of 10 tablets. The price for 200-mg dosage is Rs 350, while 100 mg costs Rs 115.

A similar situation was found at medical shops near VS Hospital in Paldi, where chemists readily sell the drug without a prescription. When this reporter inquired about the 200-mg dosage, the chemist replied, "I don't have 200 mg, but I have 100 mg. Taking two pills at the same time will give the same effect as 200 mg."

What is modafinil?