Modafinil is also compared to amphetamines (which are
often used either for recreation or to treat ADHD), since
its effect is somewhat similar. Generally, the comparison
states that amphetamines are bad for you and that
Modafinil is not as bad because it "works differently",
but there is probably more overlap than the proponents of
Modafinil would like you to think.
Modafinil is not addictive.
I have a prescription for Modafinil (required in the US) and have been taking it for over 5 years. Getting the prescription was fairly simple and required going to a sleep doctor and getting a "sleep study".
I would never have thought of myself as narcoleptic, although I remember frequently being unable to stay awake in high school math class. I think some would characterize me as "a sleepy guy" and I do have to be careful while driving late at night.
I don't take it on weekends, or vacations. Even for up to 3 weeks or a month, I'll go without Modafinil.
Taking Modafinil keeps me alert and excited about my code and my business.
Not taking Modafinil helps me relax and not think about the stress of running a business. I enjoy things like TV and Movies a whole lot more. Playing with my kids is also more fun when not on Modafinil.
But when I need to get back to work, within an hour of taking Modafinil, I am excited about the code in front of me and can work productively for 12 or more hours per day. When evening comes and you know you need rest, there is no temptation to take more Modafinil and work through the night - although that would be possible.
On more than one occasion, I have forgotten to take Modafinil before work in the morning. These days were much less productive, filled with self-promoted distractions and much less excitement about my work. But more importantly, there is no urge or need to take Modafinil; so much so, that I am able to forget about it completely.
These non-addictive characteristics are completely unlike amphetamines (which I have also unfortunately tried in my more distant history).
Addiction is not something that is just in the mind. Everybody who takes amphetamines or smokes cigarettes on a daily basis, will eventually become addicted. Some are able to overcome that addiction, others are not, but the physical addiction is a certainty.
No one who takes amphetamines on a daily basis will ever forget not to take them, nor will they enjoy a 2 week vacation without them. Same goes for the smoker without cigarettes.
Modifinil is quite easily forgotten for long periods of time. I think it is important to note this difference.