How Does Modafinil Affect the Heart?

Medications that belong to the stimulant drug class are known to have an effect on the heart. Although modafinil is not a stimulant, it has stimulant-like effects. This means that it might be capable of affecting the heart, but it is not all set in stone.

Several studies have been conducted to determine the possibility, likelihood, and how modafinil and other stimulants or stimulant-like drugs can affect the heart. One of the studies indicates that the drugs can cause the heart to beat faster and ultimately raise the blood pressure (BP) above safe limits, which may then lead to complications [2]. While many of the studies attest to the possibility of the drug affecting heart rate, none of them sheds light on exactly how it occurs.

Can Modafinil Cause a Heart Attack?

Yes, modafinil can cause a heart attack. If you take a close look at the list of modafinil’s possible side effects, you will find the following symptoms [3]:

• arrhythmia, racing or irregular heartbeat;
• chest pain;
• agitation;
• shortness of breath.

Fortunately, not everyone who takes the drug is liable to experience a heart attack or any of the above negative after-effects. In most cases, it is individuals with left ventricular hypertrophy, severe coronary artery disease, hypertension, structural heart abnormalities, or those with a history of unstable angina who are likely to suffer a heart attack [4][5].

Furthermore, it is worth noting that misusing modafinil (for example, taking an overdose) or taking it alongside other drugs that increase blood pressure without regard for possible interaction can increase the risk of experiencing a heart attack. A study conducted in 2005 involving 12 healthy participants indicated that taking 400 mg of modafinil daily led to increased blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular challenges [6].