The latest drug trend in the United States is nootropics (also known as smart drugs). These drugs can be synthetic or natural and are designed to improve mental performance in healthy people. Moreover, it’s proven to boost human’s cognitive. Read more about these drugs at https://www.daimanuel.com/2021/06/24/nootropics-101-a-comprehensive-guide-to-cognitive-enhancers/. Nootropics can be a good alternative in today’s competitive society to improve memory, concentration, creativity, and motivation. But at what cost? Let’s dive into nootropics and find out the answers.
Overview of Nootropics
Initially, the term “nootropics” referred to chemicals that met specific criteria. Today, the term is used for all-natural or artificial substances that positively affect mental abilities. Nootropics can be dietary supplements, prescription drugs, or synthetic compounds. There are two types of nootropics. These are synthetic nootropics and natural nootropics.
Natural nootropics are all-natural substances, such as herbs and plant extracts, which can improve cognitive performance or prevent cognitive decline. These substances are not regulated by the FDA and cannot make specific claims. Synthetic Nootropics, also known as “smart drugs,” are pharmaceutical agents that positively affect mental function. These drugs require a prescription and should only be taken under the supervision of a physician.
Prescription Nootropics
Some prescription nootropics are stimulants. These medications can be used to treat symptoms such as hyperactivity deficit disorder (ADHD), neurotic narcolepsy, or Alzheimer’s disease. Nootropics, which the FDA approves, can be used to treat certain medical conditions. They are usually stimulant medications, such as those used to treat ADHD and dementia. Modafinil (Provigil), used to treat the symptoms of ADHD and narcolepsy, and Adderall (used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy) and memantine (Axura), used to treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, are among the most commonly prescribed nootropics.
These medications are often very effective in treating these conditions. However, this is only true if a person truly needs a prescription. These nootropics come with risks, such as side effects and drug interactions. It is important to take them only under the guidance of a doctor.
Over-the-Counter Nootropics
Nootropics are synthetic or natural supplements intended for mental performance. They are a common alternative to medications. These supplements do not require a prescription and can be found in many dietary supplements. Over-the-counter nootropics include creatine, L-theanine, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Despite this, claims for nootropics remain understudied. Some supplements have FDA approval to back up specific claims. But not all. These supplements may be effective and improve cognitive function, but there is still much debate. Over-the-counter nootropics can improve concentration and brain performance. For example, you can use creatine or caffeine. These substances don’t cure disease, but they can improve memory and thinking.
Effectiveness of Nootropics
Some studies suggest that nootropics can affect the brain. There is not enough evidence from large-scale controlled studies to show that these supplements are safe and effective. Experts cannot say for sure, based on the limited information available, whether OTC nootropics improve thinking and brain function. Nor are they safe to use.
One report on cognitive enhancement concluded that there is little or no evidence that they are safe or effective for healthy people. However, there is evidence that omega-3 fatty acids can improve brain health and promote overall health. Some evidence shows that caffeine can improve short-term mental focus.
Safety of Nootropics
Side effects and interactions can occur with any dietary supplement or medication. A physician should be consulted before taking any new supplement. Even the most popular nootropics can cause side effects. These side effects can lead to more severe outcomes if you do not seek your doctor’s attention. Headaches, dizziness, restlessness, lightheadedness, vertigo, gastrointestinal upset, and insomnia are possible side effects.