Adrafinil Vs. Modafinil: A Comparative Analysis

The nootropics are significantly increasing their popularity because of the numerous health benefits. The nootropics are well-known and have been taken by many people for their cognitive stimulation.

They are related substances that produce similar stimulating effects, but also exhibit distinct differences in specific essential ways. This blog offers a detailed comparison of the two medications, enabling you to select the most suitable option for your specific needs.

What Is Adrafinil?

Adrafinil is a wakefulness-promoting agent that was earlier used in France to improve mood, attention, alertness, and wakefulness, particularly in the geriatric population. It was primarily used by night workers or others who needed to stay awake and alert for an extended period.

The drug is metabolized in the liver to Modafinil. The use of the drug was discontinued in 2011, and since then, it has been available as a nootropic without a prescription.

What Is Modafinil?

Modafinil is a central nervous system stimulant that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approves to treat excessive daytime sleepiness associated with conditions such as narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, and shift work sleep disorder.

It belongs to the Schedule IV controlled substance and was approved in 1998.

The medication is also used for off-label uses such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Acute unipolar and bipolar depressive episodes, cocaine dependence, cancer, and multiple sclerosis-related fatigue. It is also used as a cognitive enhancer.

Differences Between Adrafinil Vs. Modafinil

The main differences between Adrafinil and Modafinil are as follows:

Onset of Action:

The onset of action of Adrafinil is 45 to 60 minutes, whereas Modafinil starts to show its effect within 30 minutes after administration.

Dosage And Potency:

Modafinil is more potent than Adrafinil. Lower doses of Modafinil are sufficient to achieve the same level of effectiveness. For example, a typical dose of Modafinil ranges between 100-200 mg, while Adrafinil dosage ranges from 300 mg to 600 mg, although doses of up to 1200 mg are sometimes required.

Half-life of Modafinil and Adrafinil:

The half-life of Adrafinil is 1 hour, whereas the half-life of Modafinil is 12 to 15 hours.

Half-life is the duration that is taken by the active compound of a drug to reduce by half.

Cost:

Modafinil is comparatively more expensive than Adrafinil, but its potency and effectiveness make it a better choice. This offers greater value for money in achieving the intended outcome, making Modafinil a much preferred option.

Modafinil and Adrafinil Legality:

Both Modafinil and Adrafinil differ in their legal status. The World Anti-Doping Association has banned both drugs as performance-enhancing drugs.

Modafinil is listed as a Schedule IV controlled substance as it cannot be purchased without a valid prescription in most countries, such as Canada, the United States, and most European Nations. In contrast, Adrafinil is an unregulated medication and is available without a prescription in most countries.

Toxicity:

Adrafinil is first metabolized in the liver. The long-term use of Adrafinil in most cases can result in an elevated level of liver enzymes. The increase in liver enzymes is typically an indication of either liver cell damage or liver inflammation.

What Are The Similarities Between Adrafinil Vs. Modafinil

The notable similarities between Adrafinil and Modafinil are given below:

Helps in promoting wakefulness:

Adrafinil and Modafinil are exceptionally beneficial in promoting wakefulness.

Both Adrafinil and Modafinil are smart drugs:

Both Adrafinil and Modafinil are relatively safe, and most users experience minimal side effects while taking either of them. Another benefit of Modafinil and Adrafinil is that they are non-addictive. It is because they do not impact the neuronal pathways associated with addiction.

Benefits of Modafinil and Adrafinil

Both Modafinil and Adrafinil have similar benefits, as their effects are due to a single compound. The similar benefits of Modafinil and Adrafinil include:

Improved Cognitive Function:

Several studies have found that Modafinil improves cognitive function.

Two such studies are mentioned below:

Modafinil improves cognitive dysfunction in psychiatric conditions such as ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and schizophrenia, according to Muzaffer Kaser et al, published in the year 2017.

A study by Mehmet Yaman et al, published in 2015, found that one week of treatment with Modafinil improved alertness, cognitive function, and executive function in patients with idiopathic hyperinsomnia.

Side Effects of Adrafinil Vs. Modafinil

Side effects of Adrafinil are:

In rare circumstances, skin reactions such as rashes or itching might occur. The allergic reactions require immediate medical attention to prevent more severe complications.

Side Effects of Modafinil:

Some of the common side effects of Modafinil include:

Adrafinil Vs. Modafinil: Choose The Right Option For You

To conclude, Modafinil is more effective and potent than Adrafinil.

Although both medications offer the same effects, Modafinil is more effective and faster-acting. Whenever you get the final option, you can enjoy the benefits of this effective nootropic. One can easily obtain Modafinil from a reputable online pharmacy, such as HealthMatter, at affordable prices and discounts.