Nootropics – ADF

How do they work?

The research is still inconclusive on exactly how the drugs work to stimulate the mind, but early research indicates they may act on a variety of different systems within the body simultaneously. One explanation is that they may increase blood flow to the brain, which allows the brain to use more oxygen.4

Some nootropics may raise the bodys adrenalin levels and produce effects similar to drinking large amounts of caffeine, which means people can stay awake for extended periods of time.

Some drugs increase the amount of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) such as dopamine, which are released in the part of the brain associated with dependence.

The drugs often used to enhance cognition can generally be divided into 3 groups: Eugaroics, ADHD medications and Nootropic Supplements.

Eugeroics are a class of drugs that promote wakefulness and alertness. The most commonly used Eugeroic drug that is used to improve cognition is Modafinil.

Brand names: Modavigil, Modafin, Nuvigil

The drug was introduced in the late 1990s to treat narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea and shift work sleep disorder. Modafinil promotes wakefulness and alertness and may have some value in treating stimulant withdrawal and could be effective in decreasing drug craving and dependence. However, further research is needed.5,6

There is no safe level of drug use. Taking any type of drug always carries some risk, so its important to be careful.

Modafinil affects everyone differently, but the most common side effects include:

Research into nootropics is still limited which means there is a lot of uncertainty about the side effects the drugs may cause if used on an ongoing basis. It is recommended that these drugs are used only with a prescription from a medical practitioner to avoid any potential harms.

Types of ADHD medications used as nootropics include:

Methylphenidate, Lisdexamphetamine, Dexamfetamine

Brand names: Ritalin, Ritalin la, Concerta, Ritalin 10, Dexamphetamine tablets, Vyvanse

Ritalin was introduced during the 1950s to treat chronic fatigue, depression, and psychosis associated with depression. It was used extensively in the 1990s to treat ADHD and is now the most common psychotropic medication prescribed to children in the United States and Australia to treat restlessness, impulsive behaviour and inattentiveness.7 New research has explored the potential side effects of using Ritalin by people without ADHDsuch as students using it as a study enhancer. This research showed changes in brain chemistry associated with risk-taking behaviour, sleep disruption and other undesirable effects such as weight loss.8

There is no safe level of drug use. Taking any type of drug always carries some risk, so its important to be careful.

Methylphenidate affects everyone differently, but the most common side effects may include:

Long-term side effects

Regular use may eventually cause:

Certain B vitamins, fish oil and herbal supplements (such as Gingko biloba and extracts of Bacopa monnieri) may offer a safer option to pharmaceutical drugs to enhance cognitive performance. The benefits may not be as immediate but the effects are reportedly much longer lasting.11 The most commonly used nootropic supplements are CILTEP and Alpha Brain. However, the American Medical Association has advised that a number of products being advertised as nootropic supplements have not been examined in terms of safety and efficacy.

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Nootropics - ADF