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

Categories: Nootropics

Nootropic

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