What does nootropic mean. New generation nootropics. Nootropics and their experience. Norm and pathology

You can improve memory and increase intelligence with the help of nootropic drugs that affect brain function and increase its performance.

They are used in various fields of medicine, which include pediatrics, neurology, narcology, psychiatry, obstetrics. Today, the pharmaceutical market offers a large list of drugs, and which ones are better to take - the attending doctor will tell you.

Indications for use

The therapeutic effect of nootropics is based on the following mechanisms:

increasing the rate of glucose utilization;
strengthening of proteins and synthesis of ribonucleic acid;
increased synthesis of adenosine triphosphoric acid.

Thus, medicines directly affect the metabolic processes of the central nervous system and bioenergetics, interacting with the parts of the brain.

Nootropics have the following effects on the human body:

psychostimulant;
antiasthenic;
adaptogenic;
antiepileptic;
antidepressant;
immunostimulating;
sedative;
energy.

Typically, these drugs are prescribed for the following ailments:

drug addiction;
epilepsy;
ischemic stroke;
cerebral palsy;
neuroinfection;
chronic;
cerebrovascular insufficiency of chronic form;
migraine;

Nootropics are used as part of the complex therapy of ophthalmic pathologies.

These drugs are also suitable for children with various disorders:

cerebral palsy;
CNS damage.

According to statistics, nootropics are prescribed to every third child.

List of latest generation drugs with prices

Important criteria for choosing a drug are efficacy, price, quality and safety. Below is a list of drugs by effectiveness:

(hopantenic acid). It is widely used for children with encephalitis, enuresis, residual brain damage. The main active ingredient is vitamin B15. The drug does not have a harmful effect on the human body. The effect occurs within a month of regular use. The course of treatment is up to six months. The drug costs about 240 rubles.
. Increases the body's resistance to stress and does not cause dependence.
Phenotropil does not contain psychotropic substances and has an antiamnestic effect. Price - approx. 450 rubles.
. It is often prescribed for the treatment of encephalopathy, cerebrosthenia, dizziness, and for the development of memory.
The full effect can be felt after 1-2 months. 60 tablets cost 61 ruble.
Vinpocetine. This is an inexpensive tool that is good for the brain and improves microcirculation in its vessels.
Vinpocetine lowers blood pressure and has an antioxidant effect. 30 tablets of 10 mg will cost about 75 rubles.
. It is prescribed for patients with dysfunction of the vestibular apparatus, asthenia, neuroses.
It has antiplatelet and psychostimulating effects. It is often prescribed to children with stuttering, sleep disturbance, to prevent motion sickness. For 50 tablets you will have to pay about 250 rubles.
. Designed for the treatment of vascular and metabolic pathologies.
Available in the form of tablets and solution for injection. Worth about 1500 rubles.
Cerebrolysin . A nootropic agent is used to eliminate neurological and mental diseases, including Alzheimer's disease.
Sold as a solution for injection. Price starts from 1000 rubles.
Biotredin. Acts as a regulator of tissue metabolism, increases brain performance, reduces emotional stress.
Price starts from 88 rubles.
Aminalon. Suitable for students and people whose activities involve memorizing large amounts of information.
The drug strengthens memory, improves sleep and begins to act almost immediately. Price - 165 rubles for 100 tablets.
. It is a nootropic that expands the vessels of the brain, is an analogue of Piracetam.
It has a tranquilizing effect, not recommended for children under 3 years of age. For 30 tablets you will have to pay approximately 75 rubles.

With a real pathology, nootropics with proven effectiveness can solve the problem and improve the patient's well-being, however, in case of an incorrect diagnosis, they will bring absolutely nothing but side effects.

Nootropic drugs that improve the nutrition and blood circulation of the brain belong to the category of drugs that improve the activity of the higher mental functions of the brain:

Another positive effect is the protection of the gray matter of the brain from overload and oxygen starvation. They are also used in the treatment of strokes and heart attacks.

Pharmacological group

Nootropics are assigned to a separate pharmacological group (ATX code: N06ВХ).

The first discovered nootropic is Piracetam (1963), which gave rise to a branch of "racetoms". He became the main competitor for psychostimulants, but at the same time did not have side effects (addictive, exhaustion, psychomotor agitation, intoxication), which the latter sinned. The new synthesized drug improved memory, attention, helped to concentrate better. At the dawn of its existence, the new drug was used to treat brain dysfunction in the elderly.

In 1972, a new designation was proposed - "nootropic". Piracetam is now known under the trade name Nootropil. However, its mechanism of action is still not fully understood.

What is the therapeutic effect of drugs of the group

It ensures the work of the following mechanisms, due to which a positive effect is achieved from taking nootropics:

supports the energy structure of the neuron;
improves the main and conductive functions of the central nervous system;
activates the plastic function of the central nervous system;
improves metabolic processes (utilization of glucose);
stabilizes cell membranes;
reduces the neuron's need for oxygen;
has a neuroprotective effect.

Pharmacological properties and mechanism of action

The active substances of nootropics penetrate well through the myelin barrier of nerve fibers. In the neuron, there is an increase in metabolism, bioenergetic and bioelectrical processes, and neurotransmitter exchanges are accelerated.

In the nerve cell, the concentration of adenylate cyclase, norepinephrine increases; ATP is more actively produced (even in conditions of lack of oxygen), GABA, dopamine. The work and release of the serotonin mediator is faster, glucose is more efficiently utilized.

Due to these processes, the body receives a stimulating effect in relation to cognitive functions, for which nootropics received the additional name "cognition stimulants". In addition to positive changes in the nerve cell, neurostimulators improve microcirculation and blood flow in the brain.

Result of action and expected effect

Nootropic action leads to the following effects:

the mental function is activated;
memory improves;
consciousness is cleared;
increased physical strength;
there is an antidepressant effect;
there is a sedative effect;
fat burning occurs;
immunity is strengthened;
operational readiness is activated.

Classification of modern nootropics

There are a huge number of developed nootropic drugs around the world (the full list includes up to 132 items). In pharmacology, the following groups of drugs have been synthesized, which are subdivided according to their chemical composition:

Group of the pyrrolidine series ("racetams"): Etiracetam; Oxiracetam; Pramiracetam.
Group derived from dimethylaminoethanol: Phenotropil; Deanol aceglumate; Meclofenoxate.
GABAergic: Aminalon; Picamilon; Phenibut.
Pyridoxine derivative group: Pyritinol; Biotredin.
Neuropeptides: Noopept; Semax; Selank.
Polypeptides: Cortexin; Cerebrolysin; Cerebramin.
Amino acids: Glycine; Biotredin.
A group derived from 2-mercantobenzimidazole: ethylthiobenzimidazole hydrobromide (Bemitil).
Vitamin: Idebenone.

Drugs of the old and new generation

Nootropics are also divided into old and new generation groups. The nootropics of the old generation include drugs discovered at the dawn of the synthesis of neurostimulants. This is the so-called. derivatives of the first open nootropic - Piracetam ("racetams"). These include:

Oxiracetam;
Aniracetam;
Etiracetam;
Pramiracetam;
Dupracetam;
Rolziracetam;
Cebracetam;
Nefiracetam;
Isacetam;
Detiracetam.

With the advent of the 90s of the 20th century. opens a new page in the history of the development of nootropics. Modern drugs have a more flexible selective action and fewer side effects. Here is a list of the most popular new generation nootropics:

Phezam (improvement of cerebral circulation, protein and energy metabolism, has a vasodilating effect);
Phenylpiracetam (stroke recovery, improvement of attention, concentration, memory, improves the transfer of information between the hemispheres, anticonvulsant effect);
Noopept (restoration of memory and other lost cognitive functions, relief of anxiety, treatment of headaches);
Selank (relieves anxiety and stress, increased mental capacity, uplifting mood).

What is good for a Russian is death for a German

In the post-Soviet space, nootropics are associated with drugs that enhance "brain metabolism". However, in addition to the nootropic, these drugs also have a number of other therapeutic effects. Therefore, brain stimulants are also used as medicines for diseases of the brain.

Group drugs can be prescribed for the following disorders:

Basically, such treatment is experimental in nature and often leads to side effects and increased symptoms of certain diseases.

Consider the indications and contraindications for use for the most popular drugs in this group.

Piracetam

It is structurally similar to GABA. It has a neuroprotective and vascular effect. Indications for the use of piracetam:

Despite the fact that in Western medicine this remedy is not medicinal, in Russia piracetam began to be used for therapeutic purposes in a number of diseases:

Contraindications to the use of the drug:

Phenotropil

New generation nootropic, which belongs to the group of so-called. "racetams". Stimulates motor reactions (similar to doping). It has an anticonvulsant and antiasthenic effect. Indications for use:

Contraindications for use: individual intolerance.

Semax

Domestic development belonging to the group of neuropeptide nootropics. Applies to the following cases:

increased adaptive capacity under stress;
prevention of psycho-emotional overload;
deterioration in concentration;
memory impairment;
recovery after craniocerebral operations;
migraine.

There are the following contraindications:

hypersensitivity to nootropic components;
acute mental illness;
anxiety;
convulsions.

Side effects

Nootropics are a double-edged sword when it comes to brain function. Their reception in compliance with all instructions will have a beneficial effect. However, if you deviate even a step from the prescriptions of doctors, this can lead to an increase in the symptoms of the disease for which the drug is prescribed, or it can have a negative effect on cognitive functions.

Consider the pronounced side effects on the examples of the most popular drugs:

Piracetam. Side effects caused by this drug: deterioration of intellectual abilities; increased dementia; increased anxiety and irritability; sleep disturbance or drowsiness; decreased concentration; violation of the digestive tract (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea).
Phenotropil. Side effects caused by this drug are as follows: insomnia; psychomotor agitation; hyperemia of the skin; increase in pressure; feeling of warmth.
Semax. No side effects were found, except for irritation of the nasal mucosa with frequent use of the vial.

Application features

It should be remembered that a drug that stimulates brain activity should be used only after certain conditions are met.

The first thing to do is to consult with a neurologist. After a positive verdict is received from the doctor, you should prepare your body for taking the nootropic.

This preparation consists in a kind of laying the foundation on which the building of the effective action of the brain stimulator will be erected. This foundation is the fortification of the body, in which the necessary substances, when taking a nootropic, will reach the brain faster and more efficiently at the molecular level, which will allow the stimulant to be better absorbed. Vitaminization includes the following substances and natural complexes:

Dosages and schemes for taking nootropics from the TOP-3

The nuances of the use and dosage of popular nootropics.

He was the first

The beneficial effects of Piracetam appear only after long-term use. Excretion from the body through the kidneys. The course is 6-8 weeks on mg / day.

capsules;
solution for intramuscular and intravenous administration;
oral solution;
syrup;
tablets.

Phenotropil

After taking Phenotropil is quickly absorbed by the body and penetrates into all tissues. Excretion from the body is carried out through the kidneys and liver.

Domestic development

How to take Semax:

Release form: dropper bottle.

Golden Ten

Based on the reviews, we have compiled a list of the best nootropic drugs according to the people:

Efficiency not proven?

The attitude of the luminaries of medicine to nootropics is fanned with doubts and uncertainty. Countless clinical trials of nootropics are still being conducted, but this pharmacological group has not been able to gain a foothold in the status of drugs with proven efficacy.

Observations of specialists made it possible to draw a number of more or less stable conclusions regarding the following drugs:

Piracetam. Clinical studies (333 studies since 1972) have shown that the drug has a reinforcing effect on the effect of taking antidepressants, psychostimulants and indirect anticoagulants. Its effectiveness has been proven in the treatment of ischemic strokes (except acute) and heart attacks, due to its ability to compensate for oxygen deficiency.
Vinpocetine. This drug, which has passed 27 clinical trials, still remains unconvincing for specialists in some of its properties. However, it was noted that the drug is able to have a vascular effect (vasodilating), stimulates the metabolism in the brain tissues. It is used for brain injuries, strokes, atherosclerosis of the brain, memory disorders.
Cerebrolysin. 53 clinical trials. Doctors noted that the drug has a positive effect in the treatment of acute strokes and helps to alleviate the condition of patients with Alzheimer's disease.

What is there for children?

For children, there are special granules for making syrup. In pediatric practice, cases of the use of nootropics are known in cases of the following disorders:

cerebrosthenic;
encephalopathic;
memory impairment;
intellectual retardation.

Indications for the use of nootropics in childhood:

Patient reviews and a doctor's review of nootropics will help to finally clarify the situation.

The opinion of ordinary people

I took Piracetam capsules. The drug really works, but you should not expect something supernatural from it. I never became a genius, but the learning processes are really improving, which helped me successfully prepare for the exam at the institute. It also helped me concentrate on my exams.

The first nootropic I came across was Piracetam. I took it according to all the rules (along with vitamins and lecithin). After a two-month course, I can say that I liked the effect: increased arousal, a desire to do something, a long-term retention of concentration.

I have been interested in the topic of nootropics for a long time, I have tried a lot, and I especially want to mention Phenotropil. After taking it, the effect of time dilation is felt. I succeed. Take some strength away. Once I wrote a term paper in 3 hours (took 3 pills).

Physician Review

As a doctor, I am interested in the effect of nootropics in the framework of evidence-based medicine. Let's define terms. Evidence-based medicine is a series of studies of a drug or treatment method on a certain number of patients. The methods and preparations that have passed this selection can be considered proven effective.

Does this mean that all methods and medicines that have not received the recognition of doctors, remaining with the status of "ineffective", cannot be used in medical practice? Rating drugs that have successfully passed testing do not always have the desired effect. Just like medicines that were screened out during research, they can still be useful.

Nootropics in the light of evidence-based medicine are heavily criticized, their effect is equated to the placebo effect. Most of these drugs have not received recognition.

But I cannot agree with this position, since for 15 years I have been observing a pronounced clinical effect from some nootropic drugs (Phenibut). On the other hand, the drug Picamelon does not give such a rosy picture - the desired effect is not observed.

The well-known stimulant of brain activity Nootropil showed itself remarkably well in terms of a stimulant of operational readiness. However, none of these drugs has received recognition from the scientific community.

Thus, the doctor should not blindly focus on the standards of evidence-based medicine. He must choose what is suitable for this particular patient in this particular situation.

Summing up

Throughout its almost half a century of history, this pharmacological group has undergone significant evolution. More than a hundred trade names of nootropics have been created.

Their functionality includes a wide practical range: from the treatment of senile brain dysfunction to applications in obstetrics, neurology and psychiatry. However, the mechanisms of their effect on the human body have not yet been unraveled - scientists have not yet come to the main proven hypothesis of its work.

Further testing of the drug continues, new samples are being synthesized.

I really like the nootronic, my wife and I drink it, now we don’t sit at home without strength after a hard day))

I don't know if nootropics work. I prescribe them because the old guys at the institute said that this should be done. Children take them for years and there is an effect, but how to prove that this is the effect of a nootropic, and not other methods of treatment or simply compensation by the body? I read the results of studies (333 for Piracetam, of which exactly 0 (N-O-L-L) - proved that it has an effect), I read about the clinical experience of foreign colleagues - “nootropics are considered dietary supplements and are not on the list of drugs in the USA, Europe” . Parents ask me “Do they work?!”

I convince them, I persuade them to take Cortexin, Pantogam, Phenibut, Cerebrolysin, etc. I'm not sure about their effectiveness.

P.S .: My friend Socrates, let's define the terms - "evidence-based medicine" is based on evidence, not the opinion of doctors (expert opinion is the effectiveness criterion D, while the results of studies are criterion A or B. There is also C - this is the result of efficacy studies , but on a very narrow sample and specific conditions.There are also F. and E).

P.P.S. There is drug #1 and drug #2. it has been proven that drug No. 1 acts on the body and leads to the result X and does not lead to the result Y, Z.

It has been proven that drug No. 2 acts on the body and does not lead to the result Y.

And then there is a researcher who wants to see the Y result after drug #2.

and seeing the result Y after the use of preparations No. 1, No. 2, No. 3, No. 4, do you think it is logical to explain this as the result of the action of preparation No. 2?

Nootropics: action, indications, list of modern and effective, reviews

Nootropics are a group of psychotropic drugs that affect the higher functions of the brain and increase its resistance to negative exogenous factors: excessive stress, intoxication, trauma or hypoxia. Nootropics improve memory, increase intelligence, stimulate cognitive activity.

From the ancient Greek language, the term "nootropics" means "the desire for thinking." For the first time this concept was introduced in the last century by pharmacologists from Belgium. Cerebroprotectors activate neurometabolic processes in the brain and increase the overall resistance of the body to the action of extreme factors.

Nootropics were not singled out as an independent pharmacological group, they were combined with psychostimulants. Unlike the latter, nootropics are antihypoxants, but they do not have a negative effect on the body, do not disrupt brain activity, do not affect motor reactions, and do not have a hypnotic and analgesic effect. Nootropics do not increase psychophysical activity and do not cause pharmacological dependence.

All nootropics are divided into 2 large groups:

"True" nootropics that have the only effect - improving memory and speech;
"Neuroprotectors" with antihypoxic, sedative, anticonvulsant, muscle relaxant effects.

Nootropics have a primary effect, which is a direct effect on the structures of the nervous system, and a secondary effect aimed at improving microcirculation in the brain, preventing thrombosis and hypoxia. Nootropics stimulate metabolic processes in the nervous tissue and normalize them during ischemia, poisoning and traumatic injury.

Currently, pharmacologists are developing and synthesizing the latest nootropic drugs that have fewer side effects and are more effective. They are characterized by low toxicity and practically do not cause complications. The therapeutic effect of nootropics develops gradually. They should be taken continuously and for a long time.

New generation nootropics are used in various medical fields: pediatrics, obstetrics, neurology, psychiatry and narcology.

Mechanism of action

Nootropics have a direct impact on a number of brain functions, activate them, stimulate mental activity and memory processes. They facilitate the interaction of the right and left hemispheres, as well as the main centers located in the cerebral cortex. Nootropics rejuvenate the body and prolong life.

Neurometabolic cerebroprotectors are nootropic drugs that received a second name due to their biogenic origin and effect on cellular metabolism. These medicines increase the utilization of glucose and the formation of ATP, stimulate the biosynthesis of proteins and RNA, inhibit the process of oxidative phosphorylation, and stabilize cell membranes.

Mechanisms of action of nootropics:

Membrane stabilizing;
Antioxidant;
Antihypoxic;
Neuroprotective.

As a result of the course use of nootropic drugs, mental and cognitive processes improve, intelligence increases, metabolism in the nervous tissue is activated, and the resistance of the brain to the negative effects of endogenous and exogenous factors increases. Cerebrovasoactive drugs also have a special mechanism of vasodilating action.

The effectiveness of nootropics increases when combined with angioprotectors and psychostimulants, especially in debilitated individuals.

Nootropic drugs are most often prescribed for the elderly and children. In old age, it is necessary to correct impaired functions of the intellect: attention and memory, as well as increase creative activity. For children, neurometabolic stimulants will help in the fight against mental retardation.

Main Effects

Nootropics have the following effects on the human body:

spectrum of action of nootropics

Psychostimulating - stimulation of brain functions in mentally inert individuals suffering from hypobulia, apathy, psychomotor retardation.
Antihypoxic - formation of resistance of brain cells to oxygen deficiency.
Sedative - soothing, inhibiting effect on the body.
Antiasthenic - elimination of symptoms of asthenic syndrome.
Antidepressant - the fight against depression.
Antiepileptic - prevention of convulsions, loss and confusion of consciousness, behavioral and autonomic disorders.
Nootropic - stimulation of cognitive activity.
Adaptogenic - the development of the body's resistance to the effects of negative factors.
Vasovegetative - acceleration of cerebral blood flow and elimination of the main symptoms of neurocirculatory dystonia.
Lipolytic - the use of fatty acids as an energy source.
Antitoxic - neutralization or excretion of various toxic substances from the body.
Immunostimulating - strengthening the immune system and increasing the overall resistance of the body.

Indications and contraindications

Indications for the use of nootropics:

Psychoorganic syndrome is a large group of diseases manifested by dystrophic changes in the nervous tissue. These include dementia of various etiologies, neuroinfection, epilepsy, parkinsonism, ischemic stroke, cerebral palsy.
Chronic alcoholism with withdrawal symptoms or delirium.
Addiction.
Correction of the neuroleptic syndrome.
Asthenia of neurotic or organic origin: asthenodepressive and asthenoneurotic syndromes, vegetative-vascular dystonia, insomnia, migraine, emotional lability.
Somatovegetative disorders.
Urinary disorders of neurogenic origin.
Chronic cerebrovascular insufficiency.
Neurosis-like and neurotic disorders.
Chronic psychopathology: neurosis-like disorders, schizophrenia, depression, oligophrenia in children.
Sickle cell anemia.
Organic brain syndrome in the elderly.
Complex therapy of ophthalmic pathology.

Nootropics are contraindicated in individuals with individual hypersensitivity to the main active ingredient of the drug, severe psychomotor agitation, hepatic and renal insufficiency or bulimia, as well as those who have had an acute hemorrhagic stroke, suffering from Hettington's chorea, having severe renal dysfunction, pregnant and lactating women.

Side effects

Side effects that occur during treatment with nootropic drugs:

hyperexcitability,
Weakness,
Insomnia,
Anxiety, anxiety,
dyspeptic symptoms,
hypotension,
Hepato- or nephrotoxicity,
eosinophilia,
Frequent attacks of angina pectoris
Convulsions, epileptic seizures,
imbalance,
hallucinations,
Ataxia,
confusion,
Fever,
Thrombophlebitis and pain at the injection site,
motor disinhibition,
Feeling of heat and flushing of the face,
Eruptions on the face and body like urticaria.

Description of drugs

List of the best nootropic drugs that have become widespread in medical practice:

"Piracetam" has a positive effect on metabolic processes in the brain. The drug is prescribed for the treatment of dizziness, memory improvement, correction of dyslexia, cerebral stenosis and encephalopathy in children. "Piracetam" is an emergency remedy for withdrawal symptoms and delirium in alcoholics. It is used for viral neuroinfections and in the complex therapy of myocardial infarction.
"Vinpocetine" is a neurometabolic agent that dilates the vessels of the brain and improves microcirculation. The drug supplies the brain tissue with oxygen and nutrients, reduces systemic blood pressure. Vinpocetine tablets thin the blood and improve its rheological properties. The drug has an antioxidant and neuroprotective effect. First, the drug is administered intravenously by drip for 14 days, and then proceed to oral administration of tablets.
"Fenibut" is prescribed to patients with asthenia, neurosis, insomnia, dysfunction of the vestibular apparatus. Children "Fenibut" helps to cope with stuttering and tics. The drug normalizes metabolism in tissues, has a psychostimulating, antiplatelet and antioxidant effect. Phenibut is low toxic and non-allergic.
"Pantogam" is an effective nootropic agent widely used to treat children. The main active ingredient of the drug is vitamin B 15. This is a physiologically active substance found in almost all plants and products.
"Phenotropil" is a drug of the latest generation, which is popular with both patients and doctors. It has a pronounced adaptogenic effect and increases the body's resistance to stress. The drug does not cause dependence. It is often recommended to students during preparation for a session.
Fezam is a nootropic drug intended for the complex treatment of cerebrovascular disorders. It has an effective effect on the nervous system, improves brain microcirculation, dilates blood vessels, stimulates the functioning of the organ of hearing and vision. "Fezam" eliminates the effects of hypoxia, relieves headaches, fights against dizziness and amnesia. Persons who have had a stroke, encephalitis or head injury take Phezam for a long time. It helps patients recover quickly and eliminates the negative consequences of pathologies. "Piracetam" and "Cinnarizine", which are part of the drug, dilate the vessels of the brain, improve brain nutrition, protein and carbohydrate metabolism, stimulate local blood flow, and reduce blood viscosity. Thanks to both components, the antihypoxic effect and antiplatelet activity are enhanced, the metabolism in the cells of the nervous system improves.
"Cinnarizine" is a nootropic drug that strengthens the walls of cerebral vessels and causes them to dilate without changing blood pressure indicators. "Cinnarizine" has a sensitizing effect, suppresses nystagmus and is an effective prophylactic against motion sickness. It dilates small arteries and peripheral capillaries. The drug is released in a single dosage form - in the form of tablets for oral administration. "Cinnarizine" is prescribed not only for the treatment of cerebrovascular insufficiency, but also for the prevention of migraine attacks and kinetosis. The medicine stops the symptoms of vegetovascular dystonia and hypertension: tinnitus, weakness, headache, dizziness. "Cinnarizine" is used to alleviate the condition in menopause. The drug normalizes sleep, relieves irritability, headache, eliminates hot flashes.
Cerebrolysin is a complex nootropic drug that has passed clinical trials that have confirmed its effectiveness and safety. The drug is produced in the form of tablets and solution for injection. "Cerebrolysin" is prescribed for the treatment of patients with various forms of mental and neurological diseases. According to reviews, "Cerebrolysin" activates the processes of mental activity and improves mood. Long-term use of the drug improves memory processes, increases concentration and learning ability.
"Actovegin" is an antihypoxant intended for the treatment of metabolic and vascular disorders of the brain and promotes rapid healing of wounds. The drug is used for the prevention and treatment of radiation skin lesions, peripheral vascular disorders, diabetic polyneuropathy. "Actovegin" is produced in tablets for oral administration, as well as in the form of a solution for intramuscular, intravenous and intra-arterial injections. Gel, ointment and cream "Actovegin" is used topically.

Patient Nootropic Reviews

Most reviews of nootropic drugs are positive, due to their effectiveness in various vascular disorders. Nootropics normalize the condition of patients for a long time, eliminating the symptoms of cerebrovascular insufficiency.

Maria: The Phenibut drug helped me cope with a difficult life situation, which first made me fall into depression, and then completely deprived me of peace and sleep. I wanted to cry and scream all the time. Phenibut was prescribed to my child by a neurologist. After reading the instructions, I decided to drink it. The pills gave me back my sleep, peace and tranquility. Nervousness, irritability and anxiety no longer torment me. My child after treatment with Phenibut began to sleep better. He no longer gives me causeless tantrums. I would recommend this drug to people suffering from insomnia, apathy for everything, depression. For me, Phenibut is the best nootropic!

Oleg Anatolyevich: "Piracetam" is a classic, true nootropic drug that has had the most beneficial effect on my body. For many years I suffer from arthrosis, chondrosis, vegetative-vascular dystonia. Problems with the spine and blood vessels led to the fact that the brain ceased to regularly receive oxygen and the nutrients it needs. After the first three days of taking Piracetam, I developed drowsiness, which subsided unnoticed on its own, and with it anxiety, tension, and apathy. An amazing lightness appeared in the body. The brain began to work much better, attention and memory improved, working capacity increased. The mood improved noticeably and steadily, it became even and positive throughout the day. It costs a lot!

Dmitry: I have been suffering from headaches since childhood. And not so long ago there were panic attacks, heart palpitations, pulsation in the temples. The neurologist prescribed me the nootropic drug Phezam. You need to take it in a course of one tablet three times a day. I drank a pill during an attack, after which the pulse returned to normal, the headache disappeared, anxiety dulled. In addition, I noticed that Phezam is excellent for nausea, motion sickness and dizziness. I rarely drink this drug, but it always helps. I recommend it to anyone who is worried and often nervous.

Zinaida: I took Picamilon as a preventive measure. The body does not always recover quickly after physical or mental stress. Nootropics speed up the healing process. "Pikamilon" improves the mental state, increases the resistance of the nervous system to aggressive influences, is used for depression, heavy physical exertion. This harmless drug always helps me. In addition, it is excellent value for money. The cost of tablets "Pikamilon" is rubles, and the solution for injection - 120 rubles. In general, I'm satisfied!

Most reviews on the use of nootropics for children are positive. 10 days after the start of treatment, children's sleep improves, it becomes deep and long. They better focus on their studies and perceive educational material. The latest nootropics are well tolerated by children. The only disadvantage of this group of drugs is their ability to cause drowsiness and lethargy in the first days of treatment.

Nootropics: a list of drugs

Nootropics are a group of drugs widely used in neurology. They improve brain function and have many other positive effects.

Nootropics - what kind of drugs?

Nootropics are understood as a group of psychotropic drugs that increase the resistance of the central nervous system to the action of negative factors - injuries, poisoning, oxygen starvation, insomnia, stress. Another name for drugs is cerebroprotectors.

Nootropics are combined in one section with psychostimulants, but they have a significant difference from the latter. They do not cause dependence, do not increase physical activity, are not harmful to the body, do not affect reactions and the most important processes. New generation nootropics are now widely used in neurology, pediatrics, psychiatry, and narcology. The mechanism of action of drugs is based on:

increased glucose utilization;
accelerating the formation of ATP, proteins and RNA;
suppression of oxidative processes;
stabilization of cell membranes.

The primary effect of nootropics is a positive effect on the nervous system. The secondary action is aimed at optimizing blood flow in the brain, preventing the appearance of blood clots, and preventing oxygen deficiency.

Types and functions of nootropics

The entire list of nootropics can be divided into 2 groups - true and neuroprotective. The former improve memory, speech and a number of other brain functions. The second ones are higher in efficiency, as they have additional effects - relaxing, calming, antihypoxic, etc.

Which nootropics are better to take, only a doctor can determine. There are different groups of drugs, each of which has its own indications.

Some drugs should be taken to improve metabolism in the brain, others are better for increasing cerebral blood flow, and others optimize memory and assimilation of educational material. Due to the difference in indications, the selection of drugs should be entrusted to a specialist.

To whom are drugs indicated?

Now nootropics are prescribed for adults and children, because the range of their use is very wide. Medicines increase physical activity, endurance, therefore they are shown to athletes, people engaged in physical labor. For an elderly person, they will help correct age-related changes in memory, intelligence, and disorders in dementia.

For schoolchildren, students, medicines will be useful for better assimilation of information during intense workloads, exams.

What other indications exist for taking medications? It:

chronic vascular insufficiency;
previous stroke and head injury;
neuroses, neurotic disorders;
vegetovascular dystonia;
stressful conditions, depression;

Even with urinary disorders that are caused by nerve disorders, nootropics can help. They are also prescribed for anemia, diseases of the eyes, spine.

Most Popular Nootropics

In the ranking of cerebroprotectors, the first places are occupied by true nootropics without additional effects. Many of them belong to the drugs of past generations, but they do not give up their positions because of their high efficiency, low price, and availability. If we consider widely prescribed nootropics, the list of drugs will be as follows:

Nootropil (Piracetam) - from 25 rubles. It is prescribed to almost all patients of neurologists, is available in solution, tablets. It improves the mechanisms of remembering information, has a positive effect on learning, increases the nutrition of the nervous tissue and glial cells. Also, the drug protects the brain from hypoxia, increases stress resistance. You can not take Piracetam with hemorrhagic stroke, with renal failure.

Semax is a unique cerebroprotector (nasal drops, from 400 rubles). It contains peptides that have a powerful nootropic, protective, antioxidant, antihypoxic effect.

What nootropics are still prescribed by doctors?

In addition to the drugs described, there are other cerebroprotectors recommended by doctors. For example, the drug Phenotropil (1070 rubles) is one of the best nootropics prescribed for asthenic syndrome, as a neuromodulator and anticonvulsant.

The drug improves mood, speeds up the exchange of information between the hemispheres, increases the threshold for pain perception and the body's resistance during periods of increased stress. The drug optimizes the quality of life in many nervous disorders.

Due to the psychostimulating effect, Phenotropil cannot be purchased without a prescription!

The list of nootropic drugs is impressive. Among the medical appointments you can find the following:

Actovegin (600 rubles). It is indicated after strokes, with diabetic neuropathy, TBI, trophic pathologies, it is well tolerated by patients, it is allowed even for pregnant women.

Other well-known cerebroprotectors are Meclofenoxate, Aminalon, Bemitil, Calcium hopantenate, Neurobutal, Instenon, etc.

New generation drugs

Combination preparations containing several active ingredients are very popular now. The representative of the latest generation of drugs is Orocetam (from 500 rubles) - a derivative of orotic acid and piracetam. The remedy is used for severe injuries, intoxications, improves the metabolism of brain tissues, and prevents hypoxic phenomena from developing.

Another remedy is Phezam (piracetam and cinnarizine). The price of the drug is rub., It is indicated for migraines, headaches, after strokes, injuries, improves memory, normalizes brain function in dementia, decreased intelligence. In parallel, the drug dilates blood vessels, optimizing cerebral blood flow.

New generation nootropics are also widely prescribed in ophthalmology - they seriously improve the functioning of the optic nerve.

Among the combined cerebroprotectors, it is worth noting Thiocetam, Tanakan, Akatinol, Omaron, Olatropil, as well as derivatives of gamma-aminobutyric acid - Picamilon, Gammalon, Gamalate B6, Neuro-norm.

Nootropics for children

In pediatrics, only those drugs are used that have a minimum of side effects and contraindications. But in babies with long-term treatment, they can still increase nervous excitability, cause sleep disturbances, so the indications for admission are very strict:

developmental delay;
hyperactivity disorder, attention deficit;

Children are most often prescribed medicines Phenibut, Pantogam in syrups, an older child can be given tablets, capsules. Glycine, an amino acid related to the body, is considered harmless to the body. Also in pediatrics, Cortexin, Picamilon are used, to a limited extent - Mexidol, Neuromultivit. Course application corrects children's pathologies of the central nervous system and is a prevention of the progression of diseases.

Thioctic acid did not help me, and nothing has helped so far, but only poisoned with drugs, now

I had a bad cough just during a cold. The pharmacy advised for treatment

I have heard of many of these. But as for me, Bronchobos helps with coughing best. By the way I

I got rid of papilloma on the palm of my hand in just one day with the help of Celandine, I just applied it on it

I can't tell you about children, I don't have any. But I buy Ingavirin for myself. It's enough for me

Nootropics have been developed to boost metabolism and improve the functioning of nervous system cells. To date, nootropics, the effectiveness of which has been proven in the course of research, are used mainly for the treatment of neurological diseases.

Nootropic drugs contain chemical compounds that enhance brain activity, stimulate the nervous system and metabolic processes in general. Increased stress on the nervous system slows down the activity of the brain and leads to impaired blood circulation.

These drugs can increase energy, speed of thinking and remembering information. No wonder they are also called "smart drugs".

Nootropics with proven effectiveness affect the activity of nerve impulses, speeding up the work of the brain. Piracetam (the first nootropic substance) was invented in 1964 in Belgium as a pyrrolidone derivative. From this stage, the synthesis and development of neurometabolic stimulants began.

Nootropics with proven effectiveness help with neuralgic diseases. The list of drugs will help you choose the best ones.

The most common nootropics are:

pyrrolidone derivatives;
derivatives of diaphenylpyrrolidone;
derivatives of amino acids;
neuropeptides.

Complex preparations containing a combination of stimulating substances have been developed.

Indications for admission

When the properties of nootropics were just beginning to be studied, they were used to treat senile dementia. Over time, the range of application of these drugs has expanded to the areas of pediatrics, neurology, narcology and psychiatry.

In the CIS countries, nootropics are prescribed for the treatment of:

pathological damage to the vessels of the brain;
degradation of the integrative function;
neurotic disorder;
infectious lesions of the nervous system;
complications of traumatic brain injury;
decrease in integrative functions of the brain;
alcohol addiction.

In the field of pediatrics, nootropics are prescribed for:

mental retardation;
damage to the nervous system at birth;
chronic anomalies of the brain;
delayed speech development.

In addition to these cases, nootropic drugs are used to treat private neurological pathologies and in the complex treatment of various diseases.

Contraindications

The effectiveness of nootropics has been proven in many cases, but do not forget about the contraindications to taking neurostimulants.

Depending on the type, nootropic drugs should not be taken by patients with:

severe diseases of blood vessels and heart;
pronounced psychomotor activity;
diabetes mellitus;
diseases of the urinary system;
hypotension;
individual intolerance to the components of the drug;
stomach ulcer.

Also, nootropics are not advisable to take during pregnancy and with muscle cramps.

Instructions for use

Nootropic drugs are available in the form of tablets, ampoules for injection, intranasal drops. The dosage depends on the reason for prescribing the drug. In the initial days of admission, the maximum dosage is prescribed to accelerate the achievement of results. In the following days, the dosage is gradually reduced. Nootropics have a cumulative effect in the body.

A sharp refusal to take neurostimulants is contraindicated. It is not recommended to take these drugs in the afternoon, as side effects in the form of sleep disturbance are possible. After intravenous injections, it is desirable to reduce physical activity for the next half hour.

The effect of taking some medications is not felt immediately, but after a while, mostly 1-2 weeks.

In certain cases, nootropics can be addictive and "withdrawal". These drugs should not be combined with the intake of alcoholic beverages. Nootropics can be prescribed to professional athletes to restore the body.

Possible side effects

Side effects from taking pyrrolidone derivatives are mainly manifested in people with mental disorders.

It is rare to observe such reactions:

dizziness;
irritability;
difficulty falling asleep;
malfunctions of the digestive tract.

Anticholinesterase drugs used to treat Alzheimer's disease can cause the following side effects:

salivation;
vomit;
diarrhea;
lack of coordination;
lack of appetite;
stomach colic.

Also, sometimes there may be an increase in temperature, pressure surges and motor overexcitation. In general, negative effects from taking nootropic drugs are very rare.

List of proven nootropics for children and adults. Overview of drugs, cost

Nootropics with proven effectiveness are presented on today's market in a large assortment.

The most popular of them are presented in the table:

Name	Effect	Is it for children	Average price, rub
Nootropil	Improving memory, increasing the stability of neural connections	Yes	240
Phenotropil	Improves the perception of information, improves mood	No	850
Biotredin	Brain booster, stress reliever	from 15 years old	140
Calcium hopantenate	Neuroprotective and sedative	Yes	260
Semax	Enhances attention and concentration	Yes	400
Glycine	Relieves stress, improves performance	Yes	50

Nootropil

Nootropil is one of the first and most common representatives of nootropics from the racetam group. This drug goes on sale in the form of tablets or ampoules for intravenous injection.

Under the action of Nootropil, the level of norepinephrine and dopamine in the blood increases, microcirculation and metabolic processes in tissues improve. There is an increase in the cognitive abilities of a person, which contributes to the improvement of memory and the rapid perception of information.

Nootropil acts cumulatively, so after taking one tablet or administering one injection of the drug, you should not expect a visible result. However, after the end of therapy with pyrrolidine derivatives, which include Nootropil, the agent continues to act for 2-4 weeks.

The drug Nootropil is prescribed for both children and adults, depending on the diagnosis. He has successfully established himself in the treatment of alcohol dependence and senile dementia.

The negative aspects of this remedy include insomnia and irritability, which are extremely rare. The drug should not be used by pregnant and lactating women, as well as patients with acute kidney disease.

Phenotropil

Nootropics with proven effectiveness occupy a strong place in the market of drugs that stimulate mental activity. These include the well-known remedy Phenotropil.

This modification of piracetam acts in many ways in the body:

stimulation of integrative functions;
production of hormones of joy and pleasure;
neuromodulatory effect;
increasing the protective properties of the body;
antidepressant action.

Phenotropil is characterized by a faster effect on the body, since its molecules are actively perceived through the blood-brain barrier. Phenotropil tablets are used to treat neurosis, depression and chronic alcoholism. The drug is not addictive, but may cause loss of appetite. This neurostimulator is prescribed only for adult patients.

Contraindications for admission:

pregnancy;
lactation;
diseases of the liver and kidneys.

The disadvantages of Phenotropil include the high cost and sale only with a doctor's prescription.

Biotredin

Biotredin tablets contain the active substances threonine and pyridoxine hydrochloride. The main direction of application of the drug is the treatment of alcohol dependence. Biotredin also relieves nervousness and tension, improves memory and concentration.

In addition to enhancing the cognitive functions of the brain, the drug has an antidepressant effect.

Biotredin is able to eliminate anxiety and irritability, restoring the resistance of the nervous system to heavy loads. A 10-day course is enough to feel the benefits of the drug. According to the instructions, Biotredin is prescribed only for adult patients who do not have hypersensitivity to vitamin B.

The active substance pyridoxine does not accumulate in the body, but is processed and excreted through the excretory system. Biotredin should not be taken in conjunction with other medications that stimulate the nervous system. The drug has practically no side effects.

Calcium hopantenate

Calcium hopantenate is one of the few neurotropic drugs used to treat young children.

Indications for taking hopantenic acid derivatives:

mental retardation;
dysfunction of the brain;
infections of the nervous system;
neurotic disorders;
cerebral paralysis;
perinatal damage to the nervous system.

In the treatment of childhood pathologies, calcium hopantenate improves motor skills, increases concentration and reduces hyperexcitability.

The tool has the following types of effects:

increasing the body's resistance to stressful situations;
stimulation of cognitive functions of the brain;
moderate sedative and analgesic effect;
rise in general tone.

With great intellectual and emotional stress, the drug helps to normalize the mental state. The simultaneous use of sedatives is undesirable.

Derivatives of butyric acid have a positive effect on the energy of the neuron, neurodynamics, blood circulation in the nervous system. There is an optimal combination of stimulating and calming action of calcium hopantenate.

Neurobutal

Neurobutal refers to nootropic drugs with a sedative function. The active substance is calcium hydroxybutyrate.

The effect of treatment with this remedy:

tranquilizing;
adaptogenic;
soothing;
antihypoxic;
anesthetic.

The drug is attributed to smoothing various neurotic conditions, with insomnia and withdrawal symptoms. Neurobutal tablets are quickly absorbed in the body, without having a cumulative effect. The complex and rapid action of the drug allows it to be used in the treatment of panic attacks.

The negative effect can be expressed in sleep disturbance and headaches. At the moment, Neurobutal is not sold in pharmacies of the Russian Federation.

Semax

Nootropics with proven effectiveness are available not only in the form of tablets, but also in the form of nasal drops. The convenient release form of Semax allows the active substance to penetrate the body's cell membrane faster.

This remedy is a synthetic analog of the hormone, which has a nootropic and adaptogenic effect. The psychostimulating effect of Semax is used in pediatrics, neurology, ophthalmology and narcology.

The main indications for the use of the product:

complications of traumatic brain injury;
rehabilitation after a stroke;
neurotic disorders;
senile dementia;
withdrawal syndrome treatment;
glaucoma;
ischemic attacks.

Semax also allows you to increase the intellectual-mnestic functions of the brain, favorably affects the hemodynamics and blood circulation of the brain. The drug activates mental and labor activity.

The main directions of influence on the body:

neurometabolic;
neuroprotective;
antioxidant;
antihypoxic.

Semax is contraindicated in acute mental disorders and pregnancy.

Acefen

Acephen (active compound - meclofenoxate) is a derivative of plant growth hormone that improves metabolic processes in the body. The drug has a moderate neurostimulating effect, restoring the blood supply to brain cells. An unusual function of this nootropic is its rejuvenating effect on nerve cells.

Acefen is also characterized by such functions:

mnemotropic;
neurotransmitter;
antihypoxic.

Indications for taking the drug: treatment of traumatic brain injury, mental retardation, dyscirculatory encephalopathy, psychopathological disorders. Can be used in combination with piracetam. To date, Acefen is not available for sale in Russia.

Glycine

Glycine is one of the well-known nootropics that is approved for use by adults and children. Psycho-emotional stress and excessive mental stress can lead to impaired concentration and sleep. To maintain the body's resistance to such influences, you can take advantage of this budgetary funds.

The complex action of Glycine tablets is:

improving attention and thinking;
influence on the assimilation of information;
elimination of lethargy;
stimulation of impulses;
reducing nervousness.

The drug is prescribed with a decrease in mental performance, diseases of the nervous system, disorders of cerebral circulation. The tool effectively helps with frequent stress and nervousness. Glycine is practically harmless and has no contraindications. Combination with tranquilizers is undesirable. The drug can be prescribed to children from 3 years.

The stimulating effect of nootropics helps to normalize the mental state and increase cognitive abilities. The effectiveness of these drugs has been proven in experimental studies with moderate doses of therapy.

Article formatting: Lozinsky Oleg

Video about nootropics with proven effectiveness

Top 7 Best Nootropics:

Nootropics have ceased to be the lot of geeks, as they were just a few years ago. They quickly became fashionable among students and freelancers, and today they have become commonplace for many other segments of the population. The share of nootropic drugs in the global pharmacological market is already more than $1 billion and continues to grow rapidly.

There is, of course, nothing to be surprised here. If there are pills that promise to make you smarter and more focused, then you are more likely to take them - provided the risks don't outweigh the benefits (you will?)

True, nootropics by themselves have not made anyone smarter yet, but to cope with study loads, successfully pass a session, get out alive from work time pressure, or perform better in the daily tasks of a knowledge worker, they seem to help. But "it seems" here - not from excessive delicacy.

In the English-speaking world, nootropics are also called "smart drugs". There are also such cute definitions as "professors" little helpers ".

There is bad and good news. Let's start with the first one: the effectiveness of most nootropic drugs that are common on the Russian market has not been confirmed by serious clinical trials. Supporters of evidence-based medicine, as a rule, conclude from this that taking nootropics is simply useless. But here one cannot confine oneself to a simple statement.

Now the good news is that nootropics really help a lot of people. Of course, no one has canceled the significance of the placebo effect, but in the case of nootropics, it can be argued that there are other reasons as well.

So, let's try to figure out how nootropics work and what effects to expect from their use.

What do nootropics do to the brain?

Once again, I’ll make a reservation: nootropics by themselves will not make you smarter and will not save you from an overwhelmed session. It would be rather strange to expect that some pills modify your intelligence if you do not put effort into it and do not distribute the mental load more or less rationally.

It is not yet possible to fully understand exactly how nootropics work, and in what cases they can be recommended to healthy people to improve cognitive activity. I am afraid that this will not work, even if you first pump yourself up with some kind of modafinil or pramiracetam and immerse yourself in reading literature on the topic for a year or two.

According to the results of an informal survey conducted on the website of the journal Nature in 2008, out of more than 1400 scientists who took part in it, about 20% use some kind of nootropics.

Let's start with the fact that this class of drugs includes drugs with a variety of pharmacological properties and effects. In the most general sense, nootropics are means that “have a direct activating effect on learning, improve memory and mental activity, increase the resistance of the brain to aggressive environmental influences” (WHO definition).

They operate as follows:

Stimulate cerebral circulation;
Improve the intake and absorption of glucose (it is easier to penetrate the blood-brain barrier between the circulatory and nervous systems, and the brain does not lack energy);
Prevent hypoxia (oxygen starvation) of the brain;
Improve the interaction between the prefrontal cortex and other areas of the brain, accelerate the exchange of information between its hemispheres;
They stimulate cognitive functions, processing and memorization of information, influencing the production of certain neurotransmitters, with the help of which neurons exchange their "messages".

It is believed that nootropics optimize metabolism and neural activity, but do not have the same side effects as psychostimulants. For example, caffeine, although it promotes concentration, is not usually considered a nootropic.

Dummy or drug?

Although nootropics are used in medical practice for the treatment of clinical depression, recovery from a stroke, ADHD or asthenic disease, they have not received clinical confirmation in the framework of evidence-based medicine.

This means that in the so-called "blind" studies, when neither doctors nor patients know where the placebo is and where the tested drug is, it was not possible to find a statistically significant difference between the nootropic and the empty pill. Therefore, in the USA, for example, piracetam (also known as Nootropil) is not considered a medical drug at all and is registered as a biologically active food supplement.

But you need to take into account, firstly, that not all nootropics generally passed tests of this kind; and secondly, that they tend to test for a very specific effect of the drug (for example, helping with recovery from strokes, as in the case of Cerebrolysin).

In addition, separate studies have nevertheless demonstrated an improvement in cognitive abilities with the medical and non-medical use of nootropics. This is also evidenced by the experience of many people who take nootropics to increase their intellectual productivity.

According to one of the domestic studies, 69.7% of people out of 120 students who took nootropics felt subjective improvement during the session - however, there was no improvement in the average score.

The fact is that nootropics act very individually. The effects obtained are highly dependent on the properties of your body and what you are doing while taking them. In addition, most nootropics have a cumulative effect (results only show themselves over time), so it is quite difficult to fix it.

In general, the entire range of nootropic drugs can be divided into three groups:

Harmless, but (almost) ineffective. These are brain vitamins like glycine. This amino acid, which is really important for memory and cognitive processes, our body produces on its own. If you already have enough of it, then the effect will depend only on your ability to self-hypnosis.

Effective but not safe. You will either not find these drugs on legal sale at all, or you can only get them by prescription. These include, for example, Ritalin, Modafinil, Adderall and Pramiracetam. They have a strong effect on the nervous system and can be addictive. In Russia, some of them are banned and considered drugs (much to the outrage of transhumanists).

Moderately effective and (almost) safe. Drugs that can act as a placebo, and also improve blood flow to the brain, stimulate the production of certain neurotransmitters, or have an inhibitory effect - help relieve irritability and improve concentration. Phenotropil, for example, rather accelerates, and Phenibut, on the contrary, calms the nervous system (although in some cases it can cause heart rhythm disturbance and anxiety). If you have problems with the blood supply to the brain, such drugs will really help, but if everything is fine, with the right attitude, the placebo effect will come to your aid.

The formula of piracetam is the first drug to be called a nootropic. It was synthesized in 1963 by Belgian pharmacologists and has been used to improve cognitive function in the elderly. In Russia, it remains the most popular drug in this group.

For those wishing to learn more about the effects of various nootropics, we can recommend, for example, a site where there are results of amateur studies and recommendations on the use of nootropics.

More recently, the results of a large-scale (albeit informal) study of nootropics, in which 850 people participated, were published. There were no clinical trials - the participants simply answered a few surveys about their experience with such drugs. In addition to the banned Adderol and Modafinil, domestic drugs Phenibut, Semax and Cerebrolysin received the highest marks in it.

Even if the effect of legal nootropics on healthy people is reduced to placebo, you can distinguish different degrees of their effectiveness: some drugs work better than others for some reason.

In general, reviews about nootropics are more than contradictory. Intelligence is a too complex human property, which, moreover, is highly dependent on heredity. Therefore, it is unlikely that it will be possible to improve it simply with the help of chemical compounds.

Nootropics can temporarily improve certain intellectual abilities - for example, memory or concentration - but at the same time weaken other brain functions and cause addiction. As a result, without the help of magic pills, you will generally forget how to think well.

According to some studies, the results of IQ tests can improve after taking nootropics - but they can change for the worse if they were already high.

In addition to purely medical, there are also ethical considerations. Some people think it's just not fair. Can nootropics be considered doping drugs? It even seems to some that it is time for universities to organize special commissions that will weed out students for such a “scam”. But, in fact, there is nothing to worry about yet: nootropics will not help to radically improve learning abilities anyway.

The cognitive mechanisms of the brain have not yet been studied enough, and pharmacology lags behind neuroscience for decades. Among the most popular nootropics now are still those substances that were synthesized in the 60-70s of the last century.

It can be hoped that the invention of truly effective and at the same time harmless drugs that improve brain function is a matter of the near future. The nootropics that exist now can really increase your intellectual productivity, but in the case of legal drugs, this is most likely to be associated with a placebo effect, and in the case of illegal ones, with unpleasant side effects.

Almost all popular nootropics were originally developed for patients with severe cognitive impairment. While some of them have been shown to be useful in medical applications, they seem to have no effect on healthy people. The conclusion is as follows: if everything is in order with your blood supply and brain function, the effect of nootropics will be slightly less than completely limited only by your subjective feelings.

And of course, it is better to consult a doctor before trying the effects of nootropics on your own brain.

Nootropics are a group of psychotropic drugs that affect the higher functions of the brain and increase its resistance to negative exogenous factors: excessive stress, intoxication, trauma or hypoxia. Nootropics improve memory, increase intelligence, stimulate cognitive activity.

All nootropics are divided into 2 large groups:

"True" nootropics that have the only effect - improving memory and speech;
with antihypoxic, sedative, anticonvulsant, muscle relaxant effects.

Nootropics have a primary effect, which is a direct effect on the structures of the nervous system, and a secondary effect, aimed at improving microcirculation in the brain, prevention and hypoxia. Nootropics stimulate metabolic processes in the nervous tissue and normalize them in case of poisoning and traumatic injury.

New generation nootropics are used in various medical fields: pediatrics, obstetrics, neurology, psychiatry and narcology.

Mechanism of action

Mechanisms of action of nootropics:

Membrane stabilizing;
Antioxidant;
Antihypoxic;
Neuroprotective.

The effectiveness of nootropics increases when combined with angioprotectors and psychostimulants, especially in debilitated individuals.

Nootropic drugs are most often prescribed for the elderly and children. In old age, it is necessary to correct impaired functions of the intellect: attention and memory, as well as increase creative activity. For children, neurometabolic stimulants will help in the fight against mental retardation.

Main Effects

Nootropics have the following effects on the human body:

spectrum of action of nootropics

Psychostimulating - stimulation of brain functions in mentally inert individuals suffering from hypobulia, apathy, psychomotor retardation.
Antihypoxic - formation of resistance of brain cells to oxygen deficiency.
Sedative - soothing, inhibiting effect on the body.
Antiasthenic - elimination of symptoms of asthenic syndrome.
Antidepressant - the fight against depression.
Antiepileptic - prevention of convulsions, loss and confusion of consciousness, behavioral and autonomic disorders.
Nootropic - stimulation of cognitive activity.
Adaptogenic - the development of the body's resistance to the effects of negative factors.
Vasovegetative - acceleration of cerebral blood flow and elimination of the main symptoms.
Lipolytic - the use of fatty acids as an energy source.
Antitoxic - neutralization or excretion of various toxic substances from the body.
Immunostimulating - strengthening the immune system and increasing the overall resistance of the body.

Indications and contraindications

Indications for the use of nootropics:

Nootropics are contraindicated in individuals with individual hypersensitivity to the main active ingredient of the drug, severe psychomotor agitation, hepatic and renal insufficiency or bulimia, as well as those who have had acute, suffering from Hettington's chorea, who have severe renal dysfunction, pregnant and lactating women.

Side effects

Side effects that occur during treatment with nootropic drugs:

hyperexcitability,
Weakness,
Insomnia,
Anxiety, anxiety,
dyspeptic symptoms,
Hepato- or nephrotoxicity,
eosinophilia,
Frequent attacks of angina pectoris
Convulsions, epileptic seizures,
imbalance,
hallucinations,
Ataxia,
confusion,
Fever,
Thrombophlebitis and pain at the injection site,
motor disinhibition,
Feeling of heat and flushing of the face,
Eruptions on the face and body like urticaria.

Description of drugs

List of the best nootropic drugs that have become widespread in medical practice:

"Piracetam" has a positive effect on metabolic processes in the brain. The drug is prescribed for the treatment, memory improvement, correction of dyslexia, cerebrosthenia and in children. "Piracetam" is an emergency remedy for withdrawal symptoms and delirium in alcoholics. It is used for viral neuroinfections and in the complex therapy of myocardial infarction.
"Vinpocetine"- a neurometabolic agent that dilates the vessels of the brain and improves microcirculation. The drug supplies the brain tissue with oxygen and nutrients, reduces systemic blood pressure. Vinpocetine tablets thin the blood and improve its rheological properties. The drug has an antioxidant and neuroprotective effect. First, the drug is administered intravenously by drip for 14 days, and then proceed to oral administration of tablets.
"Fenibut" appoint patients with asthenia, neurosis, insomnia, dysfunction of the vestibular apparatus. Children "Fenibut" helps to cope with stuttering and tics. The drug normalizes metabolism in tissues, has a psychostimulating, antiplatelet and antioxidant effect. Phenibut is low toxic and non-allergic.
"Pantogam"- an effective nootropic agent, widely used for the treatment of children. The main active ingredient of the drug is vitamin B 15. This is a physiologically active substance found in almost all plants and products.
Phenotropil- a drug of the latest generation, which is popular with both patients and doctors. It has a pronounced adaptogenic effect and increases the body's resistance to stress. The drug does not cause dependence. It is often recommended to students during preparation for a session.
Phezam is a nootropic drug intended for the complex treatment of cerebrovascular disorders. It has an effective effect on the nervous system, dilates blood vessels, stimulates the functioning of the organ of hearing and vision. "Fezam" eliminates the effects of hypoxia, relieves headaches, fights against dizziness and amnesia. Persons who have had a stroke, or TBI, take Phezam for a long time. It helps patients recover quickly and eliminates the negative consequences of pathologies. "Piracetam" and "Cinnarizine", which are part of the drug, dilate the vessels of the brain, improve brain nutrition, protein and carbohydrate metabolism, stimulate local blood flow, and reduce blood viscosity. Thanks to both components, the antihypoxic effect and antiplatelet activity are enhanced, the metabolism in the cells of the nervous system improves.
"Cinnarizine"- a nootropic drug that strengthens the walls of cerebral vessels and causes them to dilate without changing blood pressure indicators. "Cinnarizine" has a sensitizing effect, suppresses nystagmus and is an effective prophylactic against motion sickness. It dilates small arteries and peripheral capillaries. The drug is released in a single dosage form - in the form of tablets for oral administration. "Cinnarizine" is prescribed not only for the treatment of cerebrovascular insufficiency, but also for the prevention of migraine attacks and kinetosis. The medicine stops the symptoms of vegetovascular dystonia and: weakness, headache, dizziness. "Cinnarizine" is used to alleviate the condition in menopause. The drug normalizes sleep, relieves irritability, eliminates.
"Cerebrolysin"- a complex nootropic drug that has passed clinical trials that confirmed its effectiveness and safety. The drug is produced in the form of tablets and solution for injection. "Cerebrolysin" is prescribed for the treatment of patients with various forms of mental and neurological diseases. According to reviews, "Cerebrolysin" activates the processes of mental activity and improves mood. Long-term use of the drug improves memory processes, increases concentration and learning ability.
"Actovegin"- antihypoxant, intended for the treatment of metabolic and vascular disorders of the brain and promotes rapid healing of wounds. The drug is used for the prevention and treatment of radiation skin lesions, peripheral vascular disorders, diabetic polyneuropathy. "Actovegin" is produced in tablets for oral administration, as well as in the form of a solution for intramuscular, intravenous and intra-arterial injections. Gel, ointment and cream "Actovegin" is used topically.