Modafinil induces wakefulness in part by its action in the anterior hypothalmus. Modafinil has central alpha 1 - adrenergic agonist effects i.e. it directly stimulates the receptors. More significant, perhaps, is its ability to increase excitatory glutamatergic transmission. Modafinil is proving clinically useful in the treatment of narcolepsy , a neurological disorder marked by uncontollable attacks of daytime sleepiness . Prudence , however, should be exercised in drastically curtailing one's sleep.
Prolonged sleeplessness weakens immune function.