Dopamine reuptake inhibitor:
An increase in dopamine production is known to improve cognition.
Hydrafinil plays a role as a dopamine reuptake inhibitor, increasing dopamine concentrations.
5-HT6 antagonist: Antagonism of 5-HT6 receptor can result to increase in norepinephrine and dopamine concentrations in the prefrontal cortex, as well as increasing the production of choline and glutamate in different parts of the brain. Makers of Hydrafinil theorize that it functions as a 5-HT6 receptor antagonist.
Increase Glutamate levels:
As mentioned earlier, antagonism of 5-HT6 receptors increases the production of glutamate in the brain. This could lead to enhanced memory and learning process. There is a great possibility that Hydrafinil's function as a 5-HT6 receptor antagonist could result in the improvement of cognitive performance.
Increase Norepinephrine levels:
Manufacturers of Hydrafinil(9 Fluorenol) claim that it increases norepinephrine levels specifically in the prefrontal cortex by antagonizing 5-HT6 receptor. Increase in concentrations of norepinephrine could result to improvement of cognition. However, there's no enough evidence to prove this theory.
Increase Histamine levels:
Hydrafinil(9 Fluorenol) is known to enhance histamine levels in the hypothalamus. Histamine plays an important role in normalizing our circadian rhythm and regulating sleep-wake cycles.