Modafinil induces wakefulness, but its dopamine-releasing action in the nucleus accumbens is weak and dose-dependent; no likelihood of euphoric response ('abuse potential').
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.