But it's not like you have reduced mental capacity once you stop taking it (after you get some sleep) or I haven't seen any evidence of it. It's also not addictive. And available as a cheap generic drug. So what would be the problem ?

It's addictive as in you'll miss the effects and you'll continue taking it. Doesn't seem safe.

Did this happen to you ? Because frankly that hasn't been my experience at all. I've probably went through 40 pills in 5 years and it was always a great way to get through crunch time, prep for big days, wave off bad sleep days, etc. But I never felt the need to use it day-to-day - it would probably mess with my sleep and I would likely develop a tolerance.

For me - there is no effect other than not feeling tired and being able to focus really well. It's not even feeling rested because physical aspects of fatigue still kick in (eg. back pain from sitting long, eye strain, etc.)

Caffeine is probably worse because I get hard withdrawals symptoms after I get off (light migraines first couple of days and generally tired) - I don't really notice anything different after taking modafinil and getting proper rest.

> 40 pills in 5 years

But how would you do if you took one every day?

Sounds less addictive than caffeine.