What Are Nootropics? Boost Your Brain Power With These Smart Drugs

Nootropics, or smart drugs, are popular medications or supplements to enhance mental function, focus, and memory. They have been used for decades, especially by those within the tech world, to help boost their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. 

The term for these drugs was coined in the 1970s by Romanian doctor Corneliu Giurgea and comes from the Greek words “noos” and “tropein,” meaning “mind” and “toward.” (1) While these brain enhancers are best known for improving cognitive functions, they offer a range of benefits, depending on the type of nootropic you use.

Let’s take a more in-depth look at nootropics, the various types that are available, the risks and benefits, and how they can impact your overall wellness journey. 

What Is a Nootropic?

Nootropics, which are often referred to as “smart drugs” or “cognitive enhancers,” are substances that aim to improve brain functions like mood, focus, memory, attention span, and even intelligence levels. (2)

They’ve also been used to help treat conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, stroke, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and age-related cognitive decline. (3) 

Piracetam was actually deemed the first “nootropic” after clinical trials found a correlation between this chemical compound and short-term memory enhancement. Many other prescription drugs and nootropic supplements have been developed and evaluated within randomized controlled trials and clinical trials over the years.

Types of Nootropics

Scientifically, nootropics are classified into about 18 different categories, all based on their impacts on the brain. For example:

• Some target receptors (proteins on nerve cells).
• Others affect enzymes, ion channels, or nerve growth (specifically the molecules that help your nerves grow and repair).
• Several aid re-uptake transporters (which control the recycling of neurotransmitters).
• Some can even act as antioxidants or metal chelators (which help to bind and remove metals from your body).

However, in the mainstream realm, there are 2 main category types nootropics are categorized into to keep things simple: Prescription nootropics and nootropic supplements.

Category #1: Prescription Nootropics

On one end of the nootropic spectrum, there are synthetic (made in the lab) compounds prescribed by doctors. Prescription nootropics are all FDA-approved for specific uses, although they may be prescribed off-label (e.g., to treat certain cognitive deficits even though they’re labeled FDA approval is for ADHD).

This category of nootropic drugs includes piracetam, aniracetam, oxiracetam, pramiracetam, and phenylpiracetam, which all come from the racetam family – meaning they all share a similar chemical structure. They’ve been studied for their broad range of uses, from improvements in general cognition and slowing or stopping cognitive impairment to protection against the breakdown of neurons in the brain. (4)

Here are some of the most common prescription nootropics:

• Piracetam: Known for its proven neuroprotection and mild side effects, piracetam is often used for memory and attention span improvement, to lower depression and anxiety, and even to treat cognitive disorders that are a result of cerebrovascular and traumatic conditions. (5)
• Adderall (amphetamine): This stimulant is prescribed to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). (6) It’s also known to be misused by college students and workers to boost their focus and energy so they can stay up longer, get better grades, and get more tasks done.
• Ritalin: This is also a smart drug prescribed to treat ADHD and, in less common cases, narcolepsy. (7) Some say it can become as addictive as Adderall when over-consumed.
• Modafinil: This “energy” drug is prescribed to treat sleep disorders like narcolepsy and hypersomnia. When taken for enhancement purposes, it’s used to suppress the pesky symptoms of sleep deprivation and retain mental energy and clarity. (8) It’s known to be less addictive than Adderall and Ritalin.
• Memantine: Prescribed to slow the neurotoxicity that’s involved in Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases, the drug blocks a specific glutamate receptor (NMDAR), which prevents excessive glutamate activity. (9) This helps regulate brain function and may reduce the brain damage seen in Alzheimer’s disease.

Only take and use prescription nootropics as your doctor prescribes, as they’re often associated with more side effects than OTC or supplement nootropics. These drugs may also interfere with other medications you’re taking and may cause unexpected health impacts, even in healthy people.

Read Next: Why Phosphatidylserine May Be The Answer to Stress, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety & Insomnia

Category #2: OTC & Dietary Supplement Nootropics

On the other side of the nootropic spectrum are over-the-counter (OTC) and dietary supplements. Depending on the compounds and company, OTC medications and supplements may be more herbally-sourced or consist of compounds created through specific lab processes.

Natural herbal compounds have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. Additionally, there’s a subset of natural nootropics called adaptogens, which are substances – like ashwagandha and ginseng – that excel at increasing your body’s resistance to biological stress.

The best herbal nootropics have been shown to improve cognition, reduce stress, combat fatigue, enhance memory, and provide overall brain protection. 

OTC nootropics have also been studied for different health-enhancing functions, such as treating insomnia and depression, preventing cell death, and cognitive enhancement.

Here are some of the most common OTC and dietary supplement nootropics:

• Lion’s mane mushroom: This medicinal mushroom is traditionally used to improve cognitive function, prevent cognitive decline, and lower anxiety. (10)
• Ashwagandha: This adaptogen herb from the nightshade family is used to lower stress and anxiety and boost memory. (11)
• Ginseng: Panax ginseng is a root popularly used to lower fatigue, enhance cognition, improve mood, and enhance immune function. (12)
• Rhodiola rosea: Also known as golden root, this flowering plant is used to reduce mental fatigue, enhance performance, and fight stress, anxiety, anger, and depression. (13)
• Ginkgo biloba: The leaves of the ginkgo biloba tree, native to China, are used to improve memory and attention. (14)
• Cordyceps: This medicinal fungus is used to improve physical performance, lower fatigue, and prevent disease. (15)
• Eleuthero: Also known as Siberian ginseng, this adaptogen herb helps fight stress, boost energy, and prevent depression and anxiety. (16)
• Guduchi: This heart-leaved moonseed, is native to Southeast Asia and aids in improving cognition, reducing stress, and preventing disease. (17)
• Butterfly pea: A flowering plant from Thailand and Malaysia, it’s used as a memory enhancer and to improve mental health. (18, 19)
• Bacopa Monnieri: Also known as water hyssop, this herb is used to improve memory formation and provides antioxidant neuroprotection. (20)
• DHA: This omega-3 fatty acid has been shown to improve memory and learning function, as well as support cognitive function related to aging. (21)
• Caffeine: This compound is what gives coffee its magical powers, allowing coffee drinkers to have increased short-term focus. (22)
• 5-HTP: 5-Hydroxytryptophan is a by-product of the amino acid L-tryptophan. It’s a direct precursor of serotonin — a mood-stabilizing neurotransmitter. It’s used to lower depression and anxiety, as well as improve sleep quality. (23)
• Huperzine-A: This compound helps to accelerate learning, as it increases the learning neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. (24)
• Alpha GPC: This compound is rich in choline, which is extracted from either eggs or soy lecithin. It crosses the brain barrier and later turns into acetylcholine, an important brain neurotransmitter. It helps with cognitive function and athletic performance. (25)
• L-Tyrosine: This non-essential amino acid is synthesized from an organic acid called phenol. It’s a precursor for the hormones dopamine and adrenaline and is used to fight fatigue, reduce symptoms of stress, and improve cognition during stressful situations. (26)
• L-Theanine: This amino acid can be found in the leaves of black and green tea. It’s used to reduce anxiety and stress and improve focus – especially when paired with caffeine.
• GABA: This sedative neurotransmitter is created from the fermentation and biosynthesis of microorganisms in a lab, but it’s also produced naturally by your body. It’s used to promote faster and deeper sleep. (27)

These herbal types of nootropics come from existing plants and are commonly sold as tinctures (liquid extracts), teas, or compressed into pill or capsule form. They’re available without a prescription because they are associated with fewer to no side effects when compared with prescription meds.

If you want to start using Nootropics but don’t know where to start, try Keto Nootropics. Our doctor-developed blend of brain-boosting ingredients helps increase your focus, attention, and mental clarity so you can do more, for longer (whether you’re on keto or not!).

Benefits for the Brain and Body

Nootropics work in several ways to support and impact overall wellness and brain function. Here are just a few nootropic benefits and why you should consider taking them: 

• Regulates neurotransmitters: Enhances mood-boosting chemicals (e.g. dopamine, serotonin) and reduces stress-related ones (e.g. cortisol, glutamate), improving mood, learning, relaxation, and sleep.
• Increases brain growth factors: Boosts BDNF and NGF for neuron growth and neuroplasticity, aiding in brain adaptability and cognition (e.g. lion’s mane mushroom).
• Improves blood flow: Increases circulation, oxygen delivery, and nutrient absorption, enhancing mental and physical performance (e.g. ginseng).
• Reduces inflammation: Lowers neuroinflammation, improving cognitive performance (e.g. Ginkgo Biloba).
• Increases neuroprotection: Protects against age-related neurodegeneration, improving memory and cognitive function (e.g. ashwagandha).
• Lowers anxiety and depression (e.g. L-Theanine, eleuthero, luobuma)
• Increases energy (e.g. rhodiola rosea, caffeine)
• Improves sleep (e.g. GABA)

Potential Risks and Side Effects

As with any medication or supplement, there are potential risks and side effects associated with nootropics. However, there’s a big difference between prescription nootropics and OTC and natural nootropics when it comes to this aspect. 

With prescription nootropics, you have a higher chance of getting severely reliant on them. You may also experience any of the following side effects:

• Anxiety attacks
• Insomnia
• Blurred vision
• Headache
• Digestive issues
• Fatigue
• Brain fog
• Psychomotor agitation
• Dizziness

Not to mention, you may experience a tough withdrawal if you are trying to come off of these prescription nootropics. It is important to note here, too, that out of all of the prescription options, Adderall is probably the most addictive; it’s ubiquitous in American colleges and plays a significant role in the growing substance abuse epidemic. (28)

As for the OTC and herbal nootropics, some less extreme side effects may occur. These side effects include:

• An increase in libido
• Development of a sleep disorder
• An increase in activity in the undesired direction
• Stomach-related issues (e.g. abdominal cramping, diarrhea, etc.)

To try and avoid these symptoms as much as possible by taking all medications and supplements as directed and consulting with a healthcare provider if you’re unsure if something is right for you. This is extremely important if you have any underlying health conditions, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of being sensitive to medications or supplements. 

However, we always say it’s better to start off small with dosage amounts and slowly increase to what works specifically for you and your body. 

Common Nootropic Stacks

To create your own nootropic stack, try these common combinations. Just remember, everyone is different, and it may take some time to find the right combination of nootropics that works for you. Be patient, and don’t feel like you have to rush the process.

#1: Relaxed Energy and Sharp Focus: Caffeine + L-Theanine

This common and simple nootropic stack is great for beginners looking to improve focus while remaining in a calm state. Caffeine will give you that mental energy boost, while L-theanine will take away the jitters and support your overall mood. 

Research finds that stacking L-theanine and caffeine can significantly improve attention during demanding cognitive tasks. (29, 30) One study found that combining 250 mg of L-theanine and 150 mg of caffeine: (31)

• Sped up reaction time
• Accelerated working memory reaction time
• Increased accuracy
• Boosted alertness
• Decreased headaches and fatigue

#2: Higher Productivity: Ginkgo Biloba + Ginseng

If you need to laser-focus on an important task or study for an exam, ginkgo and ginseng are great alternatives to caffeine. Human research comparing the cognitive effects of ginseng and ginkgo biloba in healthy young adults found that: (32)

• Ginseng alone increased speed in memory tasks and accuracy in tasks that required attention.
• Ginkgo alone significantly improved mood.
• Taken together, they improved working memory performance.

Research finds that ginkgo boosts performance and stabilizes mood in stressful tasks by decreasing blood pressure spiked by stress, which allows you to remain calm and think more clearly. (33)

The positive effects of ginseng on cognition can be partly explained by its ability to regulate neurotransmitters (choline and dopamine) in the central nervous system, improve vasodilation, and regulate glucose. (34, 35)

#3: Smart Genes: Eleuthero + Schisandra Berries + Rhodiola Rosea

Stacking the stress-fighting eleuthero, memory-enhancing schizandra berries, and brain-boosting Rhodiola Rosea can increase the expression of genes responsible for brain function. Research finds that this combination up-regulates the gene SERPINI1, which gives the instructions to make a protein called neuroserpin.

Neuroserpin is necessary for the transmission of nerve impulses, the development of synapses (the structure that lets a neuron communicate with other neurons), and synaptic plasticity — all factors that optimize memory and learning. 

Pilot studies have shown that this stack can increase attention, speed, and accuracy during stressful cognitive tasks compared to a placebo. (36)

#4: Sleep: Magnesium Glycinate + Ashwagandha + Gaba + 5-HTP + Valerian Root

This is one of many sleep stacks that are common among nootropic users and that you can find in supplement sleeping blends. These natural nootropics support relaxation, help you wind down after a long day, and promote restorative sleep. (37, 38, 39)

Additionally, you can also add in melatonin, luobuma, or L-theanine. In one study, stacking 100 mg of GABA and 50 mg of luobuma shortened the time it takes to fall asleep by 4.3 minutes and increased non-REM sleep time by 5%. (40)

Try This Nootropic-Based Recipe: Nootropic Berry Chocolate Protein Smoothie 

Nootropics and Keto are Better Together

The ketogenic diet in itself is a powerful tool to boost your brain power and optimize overall health and longevity. 

Ketones can provide up to 70% of the brain’s energy needs. (41) It can also lower inflammation and oxidative stress, which have been associated with overall decreased brain function. (42) Additionally, ketosis helps improve focus and reduce brain fog by balancing glutamate and GABA — two important neurotransmitters in the brain. (43, 44)

But if you want to take it up a notch, using certain nootropics to support your ketogenic journey can be helpful.

You can buy nootropics in supplement form or create your own using natural ingredients. These supplements can help improve your mood and sleep patterns, and treat anxiety and depression.

Read Next: How To Use The Ketogenic Diet for Productivity and Mental Performance

FAQ

What are the best nootropics for ADHD?

The best natural nootropics for ADHD include: (45)

• Bacopa monnieri (water hyssop): May aid in focus and attention spans, as well as stress and overstimulation. Could also help reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity.
• L-Theanine: Can help improve concentration and attention. (46)
• Ginkgo biloba: Helps increase attention spans.
• Ginseng: May help relieve some ADHD-related symptoms.
• L-Tyrosine: Can boost energy and focus levels.

Of course, for prescription nootropics, consult your doctor about what’s right for you and your specific circumstances.

Is it OK to take nootropics every day?

If your doctor prescribes you a nootropic for a chronic or long-term health condition, you’ll likely take the nootropic long-term or daily. Obviously, as long as you don’t experience any severe side effects, you should be fine to take it as prescribed. 

As for OTC and dietary supplement nootropics, they are generally safe to take every day, but you should double-check for the specific nootropic you are taking. All nootropics are a little different and affect different aspects of your brain function and overall health, so some may not be recommended to use long-term or every single day.

What is the controversy with nootropics?

The controversy with nootropics centers on conerns about their safety, lack of regulation, and potential for misuse. Some companies market nootropics with unproven claims, while prescriptions nootropics can become addictive or cause side effects. 

Ethical issues are also part of the controversy, as nootropics has become a competitive market area and some people questioning if cognitive enhancement should be readily available to all – at a price that the majority of people can afford. 

The long-term effects regarding the use of nootropics is also somewhat unknown, which just adds on to uncertainty. It’s important to do your own research, though, and know that herbal nootropics are generally legal and safe to use for healthy individuals. For synthetic nootropics, you must have a prescription from your doctor.