Introduction:
Nootropics are substances that medical experts consider potentially capable of boosting cognitive functions and brain performance. The term 'nootropics' was initially coined by the famous psychologist and chemist C. G. Giurgea, who was also credited with developing the drug Piracetam, used as one of the finest cognition-enhancing drugs. The word 'nootropics' itself is derived from the Greek words 'nous’, which stands for 'mind’,' and 'trepien’, which stands for 'to bend'.
What Is the Rationale Behind Nootropics?
The substances known as nootropic medications or nootropics are colloquially referred to as ‘smart drug’. They may also be called memory-enhancing or cognitive-enhancing substances, which can boost brain functions commonly used for performance enhancement. Nootropics are important substances studied and researched in the field of nutritional psychiatry, which aims to improve an individual's mental functioning and various aspects of brain functions, such as thinking, memories, mood, creativity, and motivation.
While these substances or drugs are often prescribed by nutritionists or neurologists to improve neuroprotective activity in individuals, only some of them are Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved. For instance, stimulant nootropic medications may be prescribed to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Similarly, most medications used to treat the clinical symptoms of Alzheimer's disease are also considered nootropics.
What Are the Types of Nootropics?
Nootropics can be either synthetic or non-synthetic in nature and are available either by prescription or over the counter. There are three primary types of nootropics:
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Prescription medication nootropics.
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Synthetic compound nootropics.
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Nootropics obtained from dietary supplements.
Prescription Nootropics -
Prescription nootropics are medications used to treat various medical or mental health conditions, such as ADHD, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia. Some popularly prescribed prescription nootropics include:
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Adderall: An amphetamine drug used to manage the clinical symptoms of individuals suffering from ADHD.
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Memantine: A drug prescribed to reduce the clinical symptoms of Alzheimer's disease by blocking the NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptors.
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Provigil or Modafinil: A stimulant nootropic prescribed to treat various mental conditions like sleep-related apneas, sleep disorders, and narcolepsy (neurological disorder that affects brains ability to sleep and wake).
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Ritalin or Methylphenidate: It is also a commonly prescribed stimulant nootropic medication for people with ADHD.
Synthetic Nootropics -
Synthetic nootropics are drugs called racetams, which are a specific class of drugs with a definable yet similar chemical structure. Some commonly used racetams include:
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Aniracetam.
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Oxiracetam.
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Pramiracetam.
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Phenylpiracetam.
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Piracetam.
These drugs or medications are commonly available over the counter in the USA, and their aim is to modulate the actions of certain neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine and glutamate.
Supplements as Nootropics -
Certain nutritional supplements are also well-known and often used for their nootropic effects. Natural substances found in food or beverages can be another source of nootropics. For example, caffeine is the most widely and commonly consumed psychoactive substance in the world. Interestingly, caffeine is actually a nootropic that can improve attention and alertness, keeping individuals mentally sharp. However, excessive caffeine consumption of more than 800 mg (milligrams) per day can have a detrimental nootropic effect on the central nervous system and may lead to gastric issues.
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Creatine: This amino acid has gained popularity for its potential brain-boosting effects, specifically for boosting memory and reasoning abilities.
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Ginkgo Biloba: This herbal supplement is derived from trees native to China, Korea, and Japan. It has gained attention worldwide due to its well-researched ability to enhance cognition, fight brain fog, and improve clinical symptoms of dementia.
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L-Theanine: This amino acid is commonly found in commercial green or black tea dietary supplements, and can possibly boost alertness and overall cognitive performance.
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These are naturally occurring polyunsaturated fats found in fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, and cod, and can be obtained through fish oil supplements. They enhance the neuroprotective potential of the brain.
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Panax Ginseng: This shrub, derived from China and Siberia, has a long history of use for its brain-boosting medicinal purposes.
Why Should One Consult Their Healthcare Provider Before Taking a Nootropic?
Before taking any prescription medication or dietary supplement that is considered a nootropic, it is important to consult with a physician or nutritionist to understand its potential long-term impacts and appropriate duration of use. Some prescription nootropics may also interfere with existing medical conditions or medications, making it crucial to seek advice from healthcare providers. While nootropics may provide cognitive benefits, the use of prescription nootropics among healthy adults is generally not recommended for non-medical purposes as it can be associated with risky or impulsive behaviors in some individuals. Therefore, nootropics should only be taken under the guidance of a registered healthcare provider or nutritionist for personal benefit when necessary.
What Does the Mixed Research Say About Nootropics?
Mixed evidence regarding nootropics exists in both nutritional psychiatry studies and neuro research, making it unclear what their long-term effects may be. More research is needed to understand the exact mechanisms and potential benefits of nootropic medications. If a nutritionist or physician has prescribed a nootropic medication, it is important to ask them for relevant information about the drug and its intended purpose. Doctors can also inform about any potential warnings or interactions to be aware of if individuals are taking nootropic medication regularly.
Conclusion:
Fortunately, there are many ways to sustain the connection between a healthy diet and brain health. It is important to note that adequate brain-boosting nutrition can be gained through the daily diet by consuming neuroprotective foods such as colorful fruits, vegetables, nutrient-rich seeds, legumes, pulses, grains, fish, and eggs. These brain-boosting foods may be effective in sustaining brain health and protecting an individual's memory and mental skills. Given that the long-term effects of many nootropic medications are not well understood, it is advisable to take them only when prescribed by a registered nutritionist or physician. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy social life by expanding social connections, and following a brain-healthy or neuroprotective diet are the best ways to sustain brain health.
