If you haven’t heard about nootropics yet, you may find this topic quite interesting! Consisting of many ancient herbal remedies as well as novel chemical compounds, nootropics are typically used to improve different aspects of cognitive function.
Topping the list of modern nootropics is a compound called adrafinil. This compound was developed in France about half a century ago, and it was originally used to treat sleepiness and fatigue in patients who suffer from a sleep disorder called narcolepsy.
Shortly after its discovery, researchers found that adrafinil is in fact a precursor for another compound called modafinil, and that modafinil was the primary active metabolite of adrafinil that possesses the observed pharmacological effects.
Modafinil became the preferred treatment option for narcolepsy, and it has been approved as a prescription-only medication in the United States and other Western countries. Adrafinil took a back seat and very few pharmaceutical companies were interested in making and marketing it. The last brand-name adrafinil product on the market was called Olmifon, which was discontinued in 2011.
With the recent popularity of nootropics, adrafinil resurfaced as one of the most effective stimulant substances. Since adrafinil is not regulated, it can be freely sold as a supplement, and many supplement makers started selling it as an energy and focus enhancer.
Mechanism of Action
Researchers have been baffled trying to determine a single mechanism of action for both adrafinil and its metabolite modafinil. To date, it remains unclear how these two compounds actually work inside the human body and brain, but what has been confirmed is that they boost the function of certain neurotransmitters associated with arousal, mood and motivation.
A few different hypotheses have been put forward and analyzed. One of the more accepted hypotheses suggests that adrafinil works by increasing hypocretin production. Hypocretin is a naturally occurring neurotransmitter in the brain that promotes wakefulness.
Main Benefits
Adrafinil has been shown to enhance cognitive functions, energy, motivation and memory. By taking the recommended dosage of 300mg, up to three times a day, users usually notice an improvement in their mental acuity that can last for several hours.
People who have taken adrafinil reported feeling more alert and focused, without the added anxiety and agitation that come with some other stimulant drugs used for the same benefits, such as any type of amphetamines.
The following are the main reported benefits of adrafinil:
- Increases wakefulness and energy.
- Increases attention span and ability to concentrate.
- Improves memory function.
- Improves mood and motivation.
- Boosts creativity and productivity.
Note: Adrafinil may have different results for each individual. Some users experience greater benefits than others, and some users may not experience any positive results whatsoever!
Side Effects and Precautions
One of the top reasons why many users prefer adrafinil over other stimulants is that it has much fewer side effects. When taken in moderate doses, adrafinil is not known to cause any remarkable adverse effects. However, in some cases certain minor side effects may be noticed, including the following:
- Mild headache
- Nausea
- Appetite reduction
- Insomnia
- Increase in liver enzymes
If you are adding adrafinil to your routine for the first time, it is advisable to consult a medical professional. If you are taking any prescription medications for any mental disorder then it is a must to talk to your doctor before taking any product that contains adrafinil.
This nootropic is not meant to be used on a daily basis, but rather for a temporary boost when needed for extreme situations, such as extended shifts or odd work hours. The best recommended practice is to take the capsule upon waking, as some users have reported trouble falling asleep when taken too late in their day.
As adrafinil is metabolized in the liver, it increases liver enzymes when used too often or over the recommended dosage, which may lead to further health issues. If you currently have problems with your liver, adding this supplement is discouraged as it can lead to additional problems or worsen current conditions.
It is important to note that since 2004 adrafinil is banned for use by athletes, so it should not be taken by professional athletes during competitions.
Places That Sell Adrafinil
There are plenty of online health shops that specialize in selling nootropic powders and capsules. You can find helpful tips and vendor recommendations here. Many consumers prefer the capsules over the powder because they are more convenient, and because the powder tastes unpleasantly bitter.
One last thing to remember before you rush to order adrafinil is that some countries do not allow the importation of unapproved health supplements from other countries. Consumers in the United States don’t have to worry about this since adrafinil is allowed to be imported for personal use with no restrictions, but if you live in another country then make sure whatever you order online is allowed to be imported by your country’s customs office.
