Nootropic
Nootropics are so-called "smart drugs." The word derives from noos or mind and tropos to bend. Proponents claim that these substances enhance mental performance in a variety of ways, for example by enhancing cognition, memory, oxygen and glucose utilization or blood circulation in the brain.
Some classic examples of nootropics are:
- Piracetam (Nootropil)
- Aniracetam
- Oxiracetam
- Pramiracetam
- Pyritinol (Enerbol)
- Ergoloid mesylates (Hydergine)
- Galantamine
- Selegiline
- Centrophenoxine
- Desmopressin (DDAVP)
- Nicergoline
- Vinpocetine
- Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)
- Picamilon
Similar claims have been made for a variety of stimulants such as:
- Caffeine
- Nicotine
- Amphetamine (Adderall)
- Adrafinil (Olmifon)
- Modafinil (Provigil)
- DMAE - possible applications for ADD/ADHD sufferers, skepticism exists over whether this substance offers nootropic effects
- Phenibut
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and acetylcholine precursors - two class of drugs/supplements which have demonstrated nootropic effects at certain dosages:
- Alpha-GPC (L-alpha glycerylphosphorylcholine, Choline alfoscerate) - most effective choline precursor, readily crosses the blood-brain barrier
- Huperzine A - potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitor
- CDP-Choline (Cytidine Diphosphate Choline) - choline precursor, a more economical alternative to Alpha GPC
CAUTION: Excess acetylcholine can be potentially harmful.
Herbs that exhibit nootropic effects:
- Ginkgo biloba
- Withania Somnifera (Ashwagandha)
- Bacopa monnieri
- Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm)
- Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian ginseng)
External links
General pages on nootropics: