Adrafinil: Review of Nootropic Benefits, Dosage, & Side Effects

Updated on July 24, 2023
 by — reviewed by Jason Williams, PhD (Contributor: George Collins / Editor: Yoko Hill)

In this Adrafinil review, we'll discuss the benefits and effects of this nootropic smart drug, as well as the recommended dosage and potential side effects. We'll also look at how Adrafinil compares to other similar nootropics.

Do you ever find it hard to focus at work or school?

Do you want to increase your productivity and stay alert longer?

If so, adrafinil may be the perfect solution for you.

In this review, we'll take a look at what adrafinil is, its potential benefits and side effects, and more!

Pros

  • Improves mood
  • Wakefulness without jitters
  • Facilitates healthy sleep habits
  • Improves cognition, attention, and focus

Cons

  • A higher dosage is needed compared to Modafinil
  • The conversion of Adrafinil to Modafinil puts more strain on the liver

What is Adrafinil?

structure C15H15NO3S

Adrafinil is a wakefulness-promoting medication that is a prodrug for modafinil. It was formerly used in France to improve alertness, concentration, and productivity. Adrafinil is a mild central nervous system stimulant drug used to relieve excessive sleepiness. It is also known as Olmifon, and its chemical name is 2-(diphenylmethyl)sulfinyl-N-hydroxyacetamide.

Adrafinil is an agonist of the noradrenergic postsynaptic (α1) receptors, and at doses that have alerting effects, it acts as a stimulant. It is available in both capsules and powder form, with purity levels of greater than 98%.

Adrafinil has been studied extensively and has been used to treat conditions such as narcolepsy, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleep disorders, fatigue, and other cognitive issues. It has also been used as a nootropic to improve focus and concentration(1).

adrafinil review

Adrafinil's formal names, as used in research, are:

  • 2-Benzhydrylsulfinylethanehydroxamic acid
  • 2-[(diphenylmethyl) sulfinyl]acetohydroxamic acid
  • CAS number is 63547-13-7

Understanding the Mechanism of Action of Adrafinil

Adrafinil (also known as Olmifon) is a prodrug for modafinil that is metabolized to the active compound, modafinil, in the body. Modafinil is classified as a stimulant that works by increasing alertness, wakefulness, and concentration. It does this by targeting dopamine(2) and norepinephrine receptors in the brain, causing an increase in these neurotransmitters.

Adrafinil is also an agonist at noradrenergic postsynaptic (α1) receptors, meaning it binds to these receptors and increases their activity. This can lead to increased alertness and improved focus, memory, and cognition. Additionally, adrafinil may also increase histamine levels, which can further boost alertness and wakefulness.

Research on Adrafinil's Effects and Benefits

Research has shown that adrafinil can have a positive effect on alertness, mental performance, and mood. It has also been studied for its potential to improve cognitive skills such as memory and learning(3)..

Adrafinil has been found to be effective for improving alertness and wakefulness in people suffering from excessive sleepiness associated with narcolepsy and shift work sleep disorder. In addition, it has been shown to improve performance on various cognitive tasks such as reaction time, attention span, and working memory. Furthermore, research suggests that adrafinil is an effective treatment for depression and anxiety.

Overall, research suggests that adrafinil is an effective wakefulness-promoting drug that can have a positive effect on alertness, mental performance, and mood. While more research is needed to confirm the long-term effects of adrafinil, its potential benefits make it an attractive option for those looking for ways to improve their alertness and cognitive performance.

The Pros and Cons of Adrafinil Usage

The most prominent benefit of adrafinil is its ability to improve alertness and wakefulness. It works by increasing levels of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter thought to play a role in arousal and vigilance. Studies have found that adrafinil can reduce fatigue and improve cognitive performance, making it an ideal supplement for people who need a boost in energy or focus(4).

However, there are some potential risks associated with adrafinil use. It can be hard on the liver due to its metabolism, and long-term use can lead to liver damage. Additionally, it can be habit-forming, so it is important to be aware of this before taking the supplement. It is also important to note that adrafinil is not regulated by the FDA, so it is important to purchase it from a trusted source.

Potential Side Effects of Using Adrafinil

Adrafinil is generally considered to be a safe and well-tolerated drug. However, like any medication, it can have potential side effects. The most commonly reported side effects include headache, nausea, difficulty sleeping, and anxiety.

It is also possible to have an allergic reaction to adrafinil, so it's important to speak with a doctor before taking it. Additionally, the long-term effects of adrafinil are not known and it should not be taken for extended periods of time without consulting a doctor.

Comparing the Different Forms of Adrafinil

Adrafinil is available in two main forms: capsules and powder. Both forms are equally effective, but they have different advantages. Capsules are more convenient, as they are easier to take and store, whereas powder is more potent and can be more cost-effective.

Capsules

Adrafinil capsules are generally sold in concentrations ranging from 100 mg to 300 mg. The most common dosage is 300 mg, as this is a safe starting point for most users. It’s important to note that adrafinil capsules should be taken with food, as this helps the body absorb the drug more efficiently. When taken on an empty stomach, the effects of adrafinil may not be felt until several hours later.

Powder

The powder form of adrafinil is usually the most cost-effective way to purchase the drug as it generally comes in larger quantities. The powder form also has the advantage of being more easily measured and weighed for accurate dosage. It is important to note, however, that if you are purchasing adrafinil in powder form it must be weighed accurately. Additionally, it is best to purchase a digital scale for maximum accuracy when weighing adrafinil powder. If the powder is not weighed correctly, it can lead to an incorrect dosage which can result in unpleasant side effects.

How to Choose the Right Dosage for Maximum Effectiveness

Adrafinil dosage is an important factor to consider when using this nootropic supplement. It is recommended to start with a low dose and increase it gradually until you find the desired effect. The most common dose range for adults is between 200-600mg per day. It is important to note that adrafinil should be taken in divided doses throughout the day.

Taking too much of this supplement can lead to side effects such as headaches, nausea, and anxiety. To maximize the effectiveness of adrafinil, it is best to take it with food or a small snack to reduce its absorption rate. Additionally, it is important to ensure that your body has adequate amounts of water and electrolytes to avoid dehydration.

Taking adrafinil with other nootropics may also help increase its effectiveness. For example, combining it with caffeine may help enhance alertness and focus, while combining it with L-theanine can reduce the chances of experiencing side effects such as anxiety or jitters.

Adrafinil Stacks: What Combinations Work Best?

Adrafinil works best when taken in the context of a “stack” – a combination of different nootropics that work together to produce a synergistic effect. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular and effective adrafinil stacks.

Stacking Adrafinil with Caffeine

One of the most popular combinations is Adrafinil and caffeine. This stack is designed to improve cognitive performance and alertness while also providing a boost of energy. Caffeine is a well-known stimulant that can increase focus, alertness, and energy levels. It works by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain, which causes increased levels of adrenaline and dopamine.

When combined with Adrafinil, this stack can provide a powerful cognitive boost with minimal side effects. However, it's important to start with a low dose of both Adrafinil and caffeine as too much of either can result in side effects such as jitteriness, anxiety, headaches, and insomnia.

Stacking Adrafinil with L-Theanine

Another popular combination is adrafinil and L-theanine. L-theanine is an amino acid found in tea leaves that is known for its calming effects. Studies have shown that the combination of L-theanine and adrafinil can be effective in improving cognitive performance and reducing anxiety. The combination works by increasing alertness while simultaneously reducing stress and anxiety. Users report feeling more focused and productive while taking this combination.

Where to Buy Adrafinil

Adrafinil is available in several forms, including capsules and powder. But before you buy Adrafinil, it's important to know where to get it from. That's why we recommend Science.bio as your go-to source for quality Adrafinil products.

Science.bio has a wide selection of Adrafinil products available for purchase, including powder and liquid. All of their products are made with the highest quality ingredients and are sourced directly from manufacturers. Additionally, they offer free shipping on orders over $100 and a satisfaction guarantee. So you can trust that Science.bio will provide you with a quality product and excellent customer service.

Their prices are also very competitive and they offer discount codes for new customers. So if you're looking for a reliable source of Adrafinil, then look no further than Science.bio!

Adrafinil Alternatives: Which Nootropics are Similar?

Adrafinil is a powerful and effective wakefulness-promoting agent, but it’s not the only nootropic with similar effects. Other cognitive enhancers that may offer similar benefits include modafinil, armodafinil, and caffeine.

  • Modafinil, sold under the brand name Provigil, is the active metabolite of adrafinil and has been used to treat narcolepsy and other sleep disorders.
  • Armodafinil (Nuvigil) is also an active metabolite of adrafinil and is used for the same purpose.
  • Caffeine is a widely used stimulant that has long been used for its alertness-promoting effects.

All of these substances are available online and may be combined with adrafinil or taken alone to improve focus and productivity.

Conclusion: The Potential Benefits and Risks Associated With Adrafinil

Clinical research suggests that Adrafinil may have numerous benefits, such as improved focus and concentration, enhanced productivity, and increased alertness. However, it also has some potential risks, including side effects such as nausea, headaches, and insomnia. It is important to understand the potential risks and benefits of Adrafinil before using it.

Various forms of Adrafinil are available, including capsules and powder, so it's important to choose the right form and dosage for maximum effectiveness. Additionally, Adrafinil can be stacked with other nootropics to increase its effectiveness, such as caffeine and L-Theanine. Finally, there are several alternative nootropics that may be beneficial without the risks associated with Adrafinil.

Ultimately, Adrafinil can be an effective tool for improving focus and productivity, but users should take the time to understand its potential benefits and risks before using it.

Adrafinil
Adrafinil: Review of Nootropic Benefits, Dosage, & Side Effects 1

Want to know more about Adrafinil and whether it's worth it? Check out our Adrafinil review to find out if this nootropic is worth your while.

Editor's Rating:
4.5
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