Nootropics: These New 'Smart Drugs' Could Unlock The Brain's Full Potential

Nootropics - also known as cognitive enhancers and smart drugs - have been gaining traction in the United States due to their low toxicity and excellent results. Patients can buy nootropics as an individual chemical in powder form, or in stacks which may help with a combination of mood, mental clarity, memory, anxiety, energy, and sleep. Some parents have taken their children with ADHD off drugs like Ritalin and substituted with less harmful chemicals in the wake of these smart drugs. However, patients are still recommended to speak with their physician before stopping prescribed medications or beginning to take nootropics.

Where Do Nootropics Come From?

Nootropics is a compound word that was created in 1972 by two Greek words 'nous' which means mind, and 'tropos' which means to bend or turn. The first form of nootropic was designed as a sleep remedy. However, the drug did not aid in making the patient tired but instead increased cognitive abilities and helped alleviate symptoms of vertigo and motion sickness. For a drug or supplement to be categorized under the umbrella of nootropics, they need to have little to no adverse side effects and have positive cognitive effects such as enhancing memory and learning and improving muscle memory.

Now that you know a brief history of nootropics continue reading to discover the potential dangers, risks, and side effects.

Potential Dangers, Risks And Side Effects

The most common side effect of nootropics is headaches. The reason for the headaches is because the brain is not able to produce as much acetylcholine - a neurotransmitter in the brain - as it needs while working hard with the help of nootropics. Adding choline to a routine of nootropics can relieve headaches. Nootropics that are able to increase energy levels and improve alertness may also have negative side effects such as fatigue and insomnia. The timing of the dose may eliminate said side effects. For instance, patients can avoid insomnia by taking the nootropics early in the day. Other side effects may include anxiety, nervousness, depression, and other mood disorders.

Risks and side effects are usually associated with patients who take incredibly high doses. Those who follow the recommended dosages do not typically experience any adverse side effects.