Fladrafinil (CRL-40-941)

Fladrafinil is a recently introduced wakefulness-promoting agent structurally similar to, as well as the prodrug, Modafinil. 

According to Wikipedia, a prodrug is a “compound that, after intake, is converted within the body…..prodrugs are often designed to improve bioavailability…this reduces adverse or unintended effects.” This means, in simplified language, that our bodies convert Fladrafinil into Modafinil after ingestion. 

It produces its effects by modulating the release of histamine, and increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. Research suggests it may be an effective treatment for narcolepsy and other sleep disorders.

Fladrafinil also supports treating shift work/night shift sleep disorder and improves subjective ratings of cognitive functioning and sleepiness in healthy adults. These studies suggest fladrafinil is an effective treatment for various conditions, making it a promising new compound and a decent replacement for Modafinil and Adrafinil.

Introduction

Fladrafinil (also called CRL-40,941) is a eugeroic or “wakefulness-promoting agent” and a prodrug to Modafinil. It was initially developed by Laboratoire L. Lafon in the 1980s and used to treat narcolepsy and other sleep disorders.

Fladrafinil has a similar structure to Adrafinil and Modafinil and is believed to work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. It is more potent than both Adrafinil and Modafinil, with a shorter half-life, which may be more effective for some people.

It is not yet FDA approved for any use, however, is legal to both buy and possess without a prescription or any sort of paper requirement.

Fladrafinil Benefits

There are many potential benefits of fladrafinil. It is thought to act as a cognitive enhancer, and may improve memory, focus, and motivation. It may also help to improve mood and reduce anxiety.

• Increases energy and productivity [1]
• Boosts focus, attention, and concentration [2]
• Improves subjective mental clarity [3]
• Increases motivation and creativity [4]
• Fast acting, non-addivtive, and safe [5]
• Improves cognitive function in ADHD individuals [6]

Increases energy and productivity

Anecdotal reports suggest Fladrafinilincreases energy levels and productivity. This is because it inhibits the reuptake of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. As a result, more neurotransmitters are available in the brain, leading to enhanced mood and cognitive function. Since fladrafinil does not cause amphetamine-like stimulation, it is less likely to result in adverse side effects like anxiety and jitteriness.

Boosts focus, attention, and concentration

Fladrafinil improves focus, attention, and concentration by stimulating the brain and keeping it proactive. This benefits people who have trouble staying focused on tasks for prolonged periods. It is also known to improve subjective mental clarity and reducing fatigue-like symptoms.

Improves subjective mental clarity

Fladrafinil is structurally similar to Adrafinil and Modafinil, both of which work by increasing hypocretin levels in the brain. It has therefore been showing an improvement in mental clarity and is often used as a cognitive enhancer.

Increases motivation and creativity

Fladrafinil has been found to increase motivation and creativity. It does so by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which leads to an increase in motivation and a flow-like state.

Fast acting, non-addivtive, and safe

Fladrafinil has a high bioavailability and therefore is fast-acting. This makes it popular for those about to embark on long, demanding tasks to kickstart and sustain their productivity, especially in longer working or studying sessions. Despite its fast-acting properties, fladrafinil is considered to be a safe and non-addictive drug.

Improves cognitive function in ADHD individuals

Fladrafinil is a suitable drug for both short and long-term use. It can effectively be used long-term for conditions such as ADHD, chronic fatigue syndrome, and in some cases, depression symptoms. It is known to improve cognitive function in people with ADHD. It is often used off-label as ADHD treatment.

How Fladrafinil Works

Fladrafinil is a prodrug of Modafinil, which means that it is not active but is converted into Modafinil in the body. It increases levels of histamine and glutamate in the brain. It is thought to work by blocking the action of histamine H1 receptors and glutamate NMDA receptors. This prevents the cells in the brain from becoming tired and promotes wakefulness.

Fladrafinil has a similar mechanism of action to other wakefulness-promoting agents such as methylphenidate. However, it is less likely to cause side effects such as anxiety and agitation.

Fladrafinil is thought to have a lower abuse potential than Modafinil and other wakefulness-promoting agents because it is not active and must be converted into Modafinil in the body before it can have any effect.

Fladrafinil Dosage

Fladrafinil is best taken orally with the minimum effective dose being 20mg. You can start there and increase up to 40mg as needed. Observe your reaction to the smaller dose and decide accordingly, but do not exceed 40mg in one dose.

It is water-soluble and recommended to be taken without food as it may reduce its absorption.

Fladrafinil Side Effects

The side effects of Fladrafinil are unknown since there haven’t been enough clinical trials on it. However, as it is a synthetic derivative of Modafinil, it is likely to share the same side effects.

These can, in rare cases, include headaches, nausea, diarrhea, and irritability.

If you are considering taking Fladrafinil, speak with your medical professional to ensure it is safe for you, especially if you are already taking other medications or have medical conditions.

Conclusion

Fladrafinil is a novel wakefulness-promoting agent that has recently hit the market. It’s designed to be an improved version of Modafinil, and effective in treating narcolepsy, shift work sleep disorder, and obstructive sleep apnea. Unlike stimulants such as caffeine or amphetamines, Fladrafinil does not appear to cause significant side effects or withdrawal symptoms.

Additionally, it does not seem to interfere with normal daily activities like working or studying. While more research is underway on its long-term safety and efficacy, it appears to be a promising new treatment for a number of conditions.

If you are struggling with excessive daytime sleepiness or insomnia, chronic fatigue, and constant low levels of energy, speak to your doctor about whether Fladrafinil may be the right nootropic for you.

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