Adrafinil Overdose: How Possible Is It?

Adrafinil is a “smart drug,” or nootropic, often used to promote wakefulness, enhance cognitive function, and ultimately increase productivity. It is considered safe and effective when used exactly as recommended. However, as with any other drug, there is always a risk of overdose. This blog post covers the risks of adrafinil overdose, as well as safer alternatives with more benefits.

Whether you’re a seasoned “smart drug” enthusiast or a newbie just planning to explore the world of cognitive enhancers, this post is for you. It will provide you with valuable information that will help you maximize productivity. Let’s dive in.

What Is Adrafinil?

Adrafinil (brand name Olmifon) is a stimulant commonly used to increase alertness and promote wakefulness. It is considered a nootropic medication; this means that it is intended to improve cognitive function, boost memory, and ultimately bring about increased productivity. It was developed in 1974 by two scientists who were working for a French pharmaceutical company called Laboratoire L. Lafon. It was formerly used in France to elevate mood, improve attention, promote wakefulness, and increase alertness, mostly in seniors [1].

Adrafinil works by increasing the levels of serotonin, histamine, and some other neurotransmitters in the brain. It does this by blocking their respective transporters, which in turn prevents their reuptake. High levels of these chemicals are known to impact wakefulness, mood, and alertness.

At this point, it is worth noting that although adrafinil is said to provide several cognitive-enhancing benefits, there is limited evidence that supports some of its effects. The drug may not be safe for repeated or long-term use. It is not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Also, France’s FDA withdrew its marketing permission in 2011. If you decide to take it, be sure to first seek advice from your doctor or healthcare provider.

The Normal Nootropic Dose

Adrafinil dosage requirements may vary from individual to individual. Although it is mostly available in dose strengths of 150 mg and 300 mg, people consider anywhere between 600 mg to 1200 mg as typical. However, many have reported achieving the expected results with doses as low as 150 mg.

Note that 1,200 mg taken as 2 doses of 600 mg (one in the morning & another in the afternoon) is the highest acceptable dose. Avoid taking the drug too late in the day, as that can make sleeping at night a tad difficult.

For first-time users, it is advisable to start at the lowest dose of 150 mg and gradually increase it until they achieve the desired effect. Note that taking more than the required dose per day can increase the risk of side effects.

Consult your doctor before starting treatment with this drug or any other.

Side Effects of Adrafinil

Some side effects can result from adrafinil use. However, they rarely occur, and when they do, they tend to be mild. Here are some of the most common ones [2]:

• headache;
• diarrhea;
• dry mouth;
• insomnia;
• muscle pain;
• nausea.

It is worth noting that the lower the dose is taken, the lower the risk of side effects. Taking higher doses may even result in more serious side effects such as skin irritation, skin rashes, blurred vision, hypoglycemia, confusion, elevated liver enzymes, and even an increased risk of heart problems. Adrafinil’s side effects can become life-threatening if left untreated. Be sure to seek urgent medical attention if you notice any of these side effects.

Is Adrafinil Overdose Possible?

To understand a possible overdose of adrafinil and its resultant effects, it is important to first understand exactly what it is and how it works. Adrafinil is a prodrug; this means that it metabolizes to another substance once it enters the body, in this case, modafinil. The latter works by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as norepinephrine and dopamine, which play an important role in promoting wakefulness and increasing alertness.

Adrafinil is weaker than brand-name modafinil, and it takes longer for its effects to kick in because it takes longer to metabolize in the liver. In fact, the effects of modafinil 100 mg provide around the same results as adrafinil 300 mg. In an attempt to derive equivalent or more potent effects than modafinil, some adrafinil users overdose on it.

When taken in large quantities (an overdose), adrafinil can cause liver toxicity since it is metabolized by the liver. An overdose can also cause agitation, high blood pressure, anxiety, palpitations, and even seizures. At this point, it is worth noting that the effects of adrafinil overdose can vary from individual to individual depending on certain factors, including sex, weight, age, and overall health. It can also be influenced by an individual’s health condition or the medication they might be taking. For example, individuals who have liver problems may be more susceptible to toxicity related to adrafinil use.

Are There Safer Adrafinil Alternatives?

Adrafinil surely provides some cognitive-enhancing and wakefulness-promoting effects, but it may not be the best choice for treatment. The French marketing authorization committee withdrew its marketing permission for a reason, one of which is the fact that its side effects outweigh its benefits. Also, after reviewing the clinical studies, the committee also realized that its benefits were insubstantial.

There are much safer alternatives to adrafinil. Modafinil and armodafinil are some of the best ones approved by the FDA. They have been studied more extensively and found to be much safer for both short- and long-term use. They have a high success rate, are well-tolerated, have fewer side effects, and have a lower risk of addiction. Generally, they are more effective and have a higher safety profile. Alpha Brain is yet another nootropic commonly used to boost mental alertness. Unlike modafinil and armodafinil, that are prescription medications, it is a dietary supplement.

If you decide to get modafinil or armodafinil, be sure to source it from a reputable vendor such as ModafinilXL, BuyModafinilOnline, or HighStreetPharma. Alpha Brain is only available on Amazon and the brand’s official website.

The Verdict: Adrafinil Overdose

Adrafinil is a medication used to enhance cognitive function and promote wakefulness. Although it is considered effective when used correctly, it may not be entirely safe, especially for individuals with certain underlying health conditions. Adrafinil overdose is possible and can have serious health consequences, so it is important to be aware of the allowable intake limit and follow safe usage guidelines if you decide to use it.

Modafinil and armodafinil, as well as nootropic dietary supplements such as Alpha Brain, are safer alternatives. However, it is essential to be cautious when taking any “smart drug” because of the possible side effects. Consult your doctor before starting treatment with any medication.

References

1. Adrafinil. Retrieved: February 10, 2023. Wikipedia.org.
2. Adrafinil: Psychostimulant and Purported Nootropic? Danielle W. Lowe, M.D., Ph.D., Eric Dobson, M.D., et al. Retrieved: February 10, 2023. Ajp.psychiatryonline.org.