The effect of Adrafinil, unlike conventional stimulants, builds subtly over a period of days to months. This appears to be based on its ability to selectively stimulate adrenergic receptors in the brain. These receptors normally respond to norepinephrine
J Clin Psychiatry 2000 May;61(5):378-81 Modafinil augmentation of antidepressant treatment in depression. Menza MA, Kaufman KR, Castellanos A Department of Psychiatry, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical Sch
Unlike conventional stimulants, no anxiety, agitation and insomnia; selectively stimulates brain's adrenergic receptors for norepinephrine (noradrenaline), a neurotransmitter linked to alertness, learning, and memory.
Rapidly restores vigilance and alertness in older people and the physically and mentally tired. Has a powerful antidepressant action far superior to that of fluoxetine (Prozac) and clomipramine (Anafranil) and is without any serious side effects. Adrafin
Accounts of use for depression, ADD/ADHD, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue (off-label). Metabolic precursor to modafinil; takes 1 hr to kick in, hard on liver. Not "controlled" like modafinil/Provigil.