Nootropic drug names. Side effects of nootropics. Side effects of nootropics

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:

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 or neurometabolic stimulants are medicinal substances that improve the mental and mental activity of the brain. Nootropic drugs directly affect the higher state, and also protect the central nervous system from various negative factors and everyday phenomena. In this article, we will take a closer look at what nootropics are, how they affect processes in the human body, how this can affect.

Description and mechanism of action of the group

The first developments and scientific studies of nootropic substances that could improve the psycho-emotional component of the human began at the dawn of the 60s of the twentieth century.

Since then, many neurometabolic stimulants have been developed that can improve brain function by stimulating blood microcirculation. Moreover, such stimulants protect the brain from all kinds of harmful external influences, including.

Did you know?Corneliu Giurgea is a Romanian psychologist and chemist who is considered the inventor of nootropics. In 1964, he isolated neurotransmitter substances from the Piracetam cocktail.

To date, there are two main groups of nootropics: true and neuroprotective. The substances that make up the first group contribute to the activation of the mnestic function of the brain, and no longer affect the psycho-emotional component in any way.
While neuroprotectors are able to have a complex effect on the mental system. The effect of neurometabolic stimulants can be both primary (the substance binds directly to the neuron and interacts with it) and secondary (has antihypoxic and antiplatelet effects).

Physicians and scientists refer to nootropics with many different terms: neuroanabolic, neuroregulatory, neurodynamic, or eutotrophic.

The mechanism of action of such funds is complex, it is divided into several components.:

• The components of neuroregulatory substances contribute to the acceleration of the synthesis of proteins and RNA, which activate the activity of the central, in particular, its plastic component.
• Antioxidant and antihypoxic effects make it possible to enhance the processes of ATP synthesis, and this directly affects the energy component of the state of neurons.
• Neuroprotectors are the main utilizers of glucose.
• Synaptic transformation of impulses in the central nervous system increases significantly under the influence of nootropics.
• Stabilization of the functionality of the CNS membranes.

Moreover, nootropics are able to interact with neurotransmitters, substances that are responsible for the frequency and speed of impulses that transmit information to the central nervous system. The direct effect of neurometabolic stimulants on adenylate cyclase promotes the release of seratonin from sensory neurons.

Also, this effect helps the production of ATP in brain cells without the participation of oxygen, and this contributes to the normal functioning of the central nervous system in conditions of hypoxia (lack of oxygen).

Classification by chemical composition

According to the chemical composition, nootropics are classified as follows::

• derivatives of dimethylaminoethanol;
• pyrrolidone derivatives;
• pyridoxine derivatives;
• derivatives of diaphenyllyrrolidone;
• analogs of neuropeptides and the neuropeptide itself;
• analogues and derivatives of gamma-aminobutyric acid;
• 2-mercantobenzimidazole derivatives;
• amino acids and analogues that have a stimulating effect on the amino acid system of the central nervous system;
• organic composites and polypeptides;
• funds based on vitamin complexes;
• other nootropic substances (psychostimulants, neuromodulators, adaptogens, antihypoxants, etc.).

Indications for use

At first, any classes of neurometabolic stimulants were used only in the fight against mental impairment in age.

A little later, when various world laboratories began to speak out about their supposedly proven effectiveness of nootropics, they began to be used in narcology, pediatrics, psychiatry, and neurology.
To date, a doctor can prescribe a therapeutic course of treatment with such chemicals in cases of the following diseases:

• Alzheimer's disease and or senile dementia;
• neuroinfection, intoxication;
• neurosis-like or neurotic disorder;
• psychoorganic syndrome;
• vegetovascular dystonia;
• craniocerebral and impaired blood circulation in the brain;
• cerebrovascular insufficiency of a chronic type;
• chronic (withdrawal, encephalopathy);
• syndromes and intellectual-mnestic disorders.

Popular drugs

To date, there are many nootropic drugs, in particular the new generation, which are derivatives of various chemicals, they have different effects on the central nervous system.
We provide a list of nootropics that are best taken for various clinical indications below, but which will be most effective for you should be decided by your healthcare provider.

Piracetam (Nootropil)

This drug refers to chemically active substances, the effect on the human body of which has not been fully proven.
"Nootropil" is a prominent representative of the group of neurostimulating substances, which, according to manufacturers, is able to improve brain activity, promote the synthesis of ribonucleic acid, and improve cerebral microcirculation of red blood cells.

On the territory of our country, this drug is often used for Alzheimer's disease and various diseases of the central nervous system.
Many medical professionals around the world believe that "Piracetam", except for the "Placebo effect", has no effect, but recent clinical studies have confirmed the fact that this drug helps to reduce platelet aggregation, thereby improving blood microcirculation in the brain.

Pramiracetam

Like the previous substance, it is a neurometabolic stimulant (a derivative of piracetam), but with a more pronounced effect, and therefore is used in lower dosages.
According to manufacturers, it stimulates and. The full effect of the drug has not been proven, therefore Pramiracetam considered to be a homeopathic remedy.

Cavinton (Vinpocetine)

It is a Hungarian neurodynamic drug that has a therapeutic effect on the affected areas of the brain. It improves blood microcirculation in ischemic areas by relaxing smooth muscles.
Since the mid-80s, it has been manufactured synthetically based on vincamine. It is used to treat cerebral (acute) with impaired cerebral blood flow. The effectiveness of "Cavinton" for many decades has often been questioned. At the beginning of the 19th century, the drug was included in the list of biologically active additives (BAA).

It is a pharmaceutical preparation, the main component of which is hopantenic acid, which is involved in many processes of brain activity. This tool shows its greatest effectiveness in the treatment of chronic intoxication, as well as during periods of increased risk of hypoxia.
"Pantogam" stimulates various functional actions in the system of neurons and helps to accelerate the transmission of neuron-neuron signals.

This sedative drug is included in the list of the best nootropics of the latest generation, the effect of which is to a large extent proven. Clinical studies have shown that Pantogam is able to improve the mental activity of adolescents who have speech and writing disorders.

Domestic tableted nootropic drug, which is used in the medical practice of Russia (in other countries of the world it has not found its application).

Included in the list of the most important medicines. Widely used as a neuroprotective, antihypoxic and psychostimulant agent.
Employees of medical institutions often prescribe "Semax" for recovery after ethanol intoxication, inflammation of the nerves in areas near the brain, and chronic disorders of cerebral blood flow.

In addition, this drug has been used in pediatrics for more than a dozen years, where its effectiveness and safety has been repeatedly proven.

"Semax" is not addictive and "withdrawal" syndrome. Moreover, it easily overcomes the blood-brain barrier and stabilizes all brain processes.

It is a neurometabolic stimulant that has a stimulating, anticonvulsant and antitoxic effect. In 2007, Phenotropil was recognized as an obsolete drug, the frequency of its use for therapeutic purposes has sharply decreased.
Moreover, this drug was recognized as one of those nootropics, the effectiveness of which has not been proven. However, "Phenotropil" has found its application in the world, where it is actively used as a doping, some global companies even produce the active substance "Phenotropil" under a different name.

Nootropic agent, a derivative of gamma-aminobutyric acid. It is a domestic drug, which was included in the list of important medicines in the mid-70s.
The developers talked about what would lower the level of stress and stabilize too high levels of CNS activity. Almost all tablets based on gamma-aminobutyric acid are able to calm and improve sleep, in addition, they enhance the effect of sleeping pills and narcotic drugs.

Important!"Phenibut" with prolonged use can be addictive.

With stuttering, chronic stress, Meniere's disease. Phenibut can be shown as a medicine. The main substance of Phenibut directly affects neurons and reduces their activity, which helps to calm and.
In high doses, it exhibits an analgesic effect. For children under 10 years old and people who constantly use drugs and alcohol, Phenibut is contraindicated.

This pharmacy drug belongs to nootropic drugs, the derivatives of which are simple amino acids. developed on the basis of aminoacetic acid, it has a calming, sedative, anti-stress and hypnotic effect.
Moreover, according to the manufacturers, "Glycine" helps to improve memory and protect the central nervous system from various unpleasant external stimuli (the consequences of intoxication with drug addiction and alcoholism).

And "Glycine" is one of the few drugs that can reduce and stimulate the production of serotonin (which makes people happy).

Side effects and contraindications

Side effects from the use of neurometabolic stimulants may occur from the side of the psychological component. Often such effects occur with overdoses or prolonged use of drugs.
Patients may experience hyperactivity of the CNS processes, which manifests itself in the form of increased, impaired. in 5% of cases causes side effects with increasing dosages.

Cancellation of the drug entails the disappearance of any side effects. In addition, "Piracetam" and "Acephen" should not be used as sedatives and mild sleeping pills, as they stimulate the central nervous system.

Did you know?Every fourth Harvard student takes nootropics, although these substances are not medicinal substances in their country (medics say that they are practically ineffective).

From the side of the neuralgic component, tendon reflexes, tremor, dizziness may occur. From the side of the somatic system, there are also a number of unpleasant side effects.

Sometimes there may be a loss of taste, dry mouth. Elderly people complain of high blood pressure and dizziness with long-term use of nootropics.
In addition, improper and uncontrolled intake of neurometabolic stimulants can cause various types. "Pyriditol" can complicate the course of the disease in people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.

Also, nootropics are prohibited for use by people who have had a hemorrhagic stroke and those who suffer from a hereditary disease of the central nervous system - Hettington's chorea.

Who Prescribes Nootropics?

Nootropics have a wide range of applications in the medical practice of our country. In almost all other countries of the world, homeopathic medicines have long since faded into the background. However, our doctors prescribe nootropics for a variety of diseases, as we have already talked about.
For example, the drug "Fenibut" can be prescribed even by a cardiologist. The whole point is that patients with vegetovascular dystonia, for the most part, first of all turn to a cardiologist because of jumps in blood pressure and a constant “feeling” of rhythm.

And since VVD is not serious, which can lead to unpleasant consequences, the cardiologist often prescribes various homeopathic medicines, among which there are nootropics.

Important!Some nootropic substances in high dosages can cause drug intoxication.

But to a greater extent, nootropic drugs are prescribed by psychiatrists, neurologists and pediatricians. In addition, toxicologists and narcologists can also prescribe nootropics with caution.

It can be concluded that the safety of the use of nootropics is quite high, but the effectiveness has not been fully proven. Therefore, it is up to you to decide whether to take such drugs or not.

Modern life is full of daily stresses. Problems at work, quarrels in the family or depression - all this not only spoils the mood, but also causes irreparable damage to the brain.

An excess of stressful situations negatively affects memory, slows down thought processes and affects the central nervous system. To avoid these consequences, scientists have invented nootropic drugs. In this article, we will review the list of new generation nootropics and their mechanism of action.

What are nootropics?

Nootropics are psychotropic drugs. They have a positive effect on the functioning of the brain, increasing its resistance to stress. Nootropics strengthen memory, enhance intellectual abilities and stimulate the desire to learn new information.

The prototypes of modern medicines were invented more than half a century ago. At that time, nootropics had one positive property - improved memory. With the development of medicine, it was possible to obtain new generation nootropics that have a complex effect on brain function.

Nootropics are included in the pharmacological group of psychostimulants, but have a number of important advantages over classic psychostimulants:

• do not have a negative impact on a person;
• do not correct brain activity;
• do not slow down the physical reaction;
• do not have a hypnotic effect;
• do not cause dependence.

The main action of nootropics is the normalization of the central nervous system. Also, drugs protect the brain from mental illness, prevent the formation of blood clots and hypoxia. Medicines of nootropic action are prescribed to patients with ischemia, poisoning or brain injury.

Nootropics are divided into 2 types:

• Single-tasking. Drugs showing one positive effect - improving memory;
• Multitasking. Means that have antihypoxic, sedative and muscle relaxant effects.

Leading experts in pharmacology are still developing in the field of nootropics. Every year they become more effective, and the list of possible side effects is constantly decreasing. The list of nootropic drugs is regularly updated, which indicates their high efficiency and importance in medicine.

How do brain nootropics work?

A group of nootropics actively affects the functionality of the brain. The substance stimulates its work, enhances memory functions and normalizes mental activity. Nootropics act as a link to improve the interaction of the two hemispheres. Experts say that regular use of nootropics slows down the aging process.

Neurometabolic cerebroprotectors have their roots in biogenetics. These drugs stimulate increased glucose excretion and ATP formation, strengthen the interaction of proteins and ribonucleic acid (two of the three key macromolecules in the body).

There are 4 main mechanisms of action of nootropic substances:

1. Membrane stabilizers. Regenerate cell membranes, their structure and properties;
2. Antioxidants. Neutralize oxidative processes in the human body;
3. Antihypoxants. Normalize the excretion of oxygen from the body, thereby increasing resistance to hypoxia;
4. Neuroprotectors. Protect brain neurons from damage.

The impact of nootropics is enhanced in conjunction with psychostimulants. Similar combinations are prescribed for people suffering from severe disorders.

Nootropics - list of drugs

We present to your attention the best nootropics of the latest generation, which are widely used in various fields of modern medicine.

Piracetam (Nootropil). The drug is available in tablets or injection ampoules. Piracetam improves metabolism in the central nervous system and has a positive effect on blood circulation in the brain. The tool is used for speech disorders, memory impairment, frequent dizziness and viral diseases of neurons.

Pramiracetam. The drug is available in tablet form. The mechanism of action is similar to vitamin B4. Strengthens the main functions of the brain: memory, speech, perception, concentration. Pramiracetam is not characterized as a sedative. A more effective result is achieved with course therapy (1-2 months).

Important! People suffering from kidney failure should consult a doctor before starting the course.

Vinpocetine (Neurovin). Available in the form of tablets or injection solutions. Helps improve cerebral circulation. The drug is especially popular in neurology and ophthalmology in the elimination of pathological diseases of the retina. It is also used for hearing loss.

It is recommended to use the remedy for 1 to 2 months, depending on the disease and the dynamics of its course. Cancellation of the drug should be done gradually, reducing the dosage during the week. As the condition improves, the injections are replaced with a tablet form.

Phenibut (Noobut). The product is produced in powder, capsule and tablet forms. The substance fights the lack of oxygen in nerve cells and the deterioration of memory. It has a positive effect on both the mental and physical condition of a person. Eliminates anxiety, relieves depression and normalizes sleep patterns.

Important! It is necessary to combine Phenibut with sleeping pills with increased care, since the drug enhances the effect of the latter.

Nootropic is prescribed for disorders of the nervous system and the decline of intellectual abilities. A course therapy lasting from 1 to 2 months is recommended.

Pantogam. A common nootropic drug used in pediatric medicine. Produced in the form of tablets. Suppresses excessive excitability and hyperactivity in children. The effect of the application appears within 2-3 weeks after the start of the course. Duration of treatment - up to 6 months, depending on the patient's condition.

Glycine. The drug is in the form of tablets, which has a pronounced sedative effect. Helps the body cope with stress by suppressing anxiety and irritation.

Phezam. A nootropic that normalizes blood circulation in the brain. It has a positive effect on the work of the central nervous system, promotes vasodilation. Slightly affects the auditory and visual organs. The tool effectively fights against dizziness, memory loss, the consequences of a stroke or encephalitis.

The composition of the drug includes a bunch of two other nootropics (Piracetam and Cinnarizine). This bundle enhances the antihypoxic effect and accelerates metabolism in nerve cells.

Conclusion

We answered the main question: "Nootropic agent: what is it and how does it work?". The use of nootropics is absolutely safe if you consult a doctor in advance. A wide range of medicines will allow you to point to the problem, which will significantly speed up the treatment process.

Nootropics (Greek noos mind + tropos direction)

The main N. page used in medical practice is piracetam, which chemically is a cyclic analogue of γ-aminobutyric acid (). N.'s properties with. some other analogs of GABA also possess, for example, aminalon, pantogam, and a number of drugs belonging to other classes of chemical compounds (acephen, pyriditol, etc.).

Along with nootropic activity, drugs of this group also have other pharmacological properties. For example, piracetam, pantogam, and aminalon show some anticonvulsant activity, while pyriditol has antidepressant and sedative properties.

N.'s mechanisms of action with. little studied. It is established that N.'s stimulating influence of page. memory and learning are mainly due to their effect on metabolic processes in the nervous tissue. So, it is known that many N. with. stimulate tissue, increase the turnover rate and enhance the utilization of glucose by brain cells. Most of N. with. have antihypoxic properties. N.'s ability with. to improve energy processes in the nervous tissue is one of the main reasons for increasing the resistance of the brain to hypoxia and toxic effects on it under the influence of drugs of this group. Caused by some N. with. an increase in cerebral blood flow, apparently, also plays a role in the mechanisms of their action on the processes of memory, thinking, and learning. Obviously, for this reason, some drugs (for example, cavinton, nicergoline), which mainly improve, have nootropic activity.

Apply N. with. mainly in violation of memory, attention, speech, etc., caused by vascular diseases of the brain (atherosclerosis, chronic cerebrovascular insufficiency, stroke), craniocerebral trauma, intoxication (for example, alcoholism), in the recovery period after suffering neuroinfections and mental insufficiency (mental retardation) and oligophrenia in children. Along with this, individual drugs from among N. s. prescribed for other indications. So, piracetam is sometimes used as a corrector for the side effects of neuroleptics (see Antipsychotics) and other psychotropic drugs, tk. it weakens the mental, neurological and somatovegetative disturbances caused by them. Pantogam is used for Jacksonian epilepsy, hyperkinesis, parkinsonism, a clonic form of stuttering in children and as a corrector for neuroleptic syndrome that occurs during intoxication with antipsychotics. Pyriditol can be included in the complex therapy of neurotic disorders and depression with symptoms of lethargy, adynamia. Acephen is sometimes used for neurotic, hypochondriacal and asthenoilochondriac conditions, diencephalic syndrome, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Side effects in certain drugs of the N. group with. manifests itself differently, although for many of them the most characteristic signs of this action are increased, anxiety and. Along with this, piracetam can cause dyspeptic disorders and coronary insufficiency, aminalon - dyspeptic disorders, fever and fluctuations, mainly in the first days after the appointment of this drug. The side effect of pantogam is manifested mainly by allergic reactions from the skin (skin) and mucous membranes (allergic and conjunctivitis). Pyriditol can cause nausea and headache, and in children, psychomotor. The side effects of acephene are characterized by the appearance of anxiety and fear. In patients with paranoid and hallucinatory symptoms, acephene may cause an increase in them.

General contraindications for use for the N. group with. in no. to the use of aminalon and pantogam have not been established. Piracetam is contraindicated in acute renal failure and pregnancy, pyriditol - with increased convulsive readiness, epilepsy and psychomotor agitation, acephen - with infectious diseases of the central nervous system.

The main N. pages, their doses, methods of application, forms of release and storage conditions are given below.

Aminalon(Aminalonum; synonym: gammalon, ganevrin, etc.) is prescribed orally (before meals) for adults at 0.5-1.25 G 3 times a day, for children, depending on age - in daily doses from 0.5 to 3 G. The duration of the course of treatment is from 2-3 weeks to 2-6 months. Release form: tablets of 0.25 G, coated

Acefen(Acephenum; synonym: analux, cerutil, meclofenoxate hydrochloride, etc.) are used orally at 0.1-0.3 G 3-5 times a day. The duration of the course of treatment is 1-3 months. Release form: tablets of 0.1 G, coated. Storage: list B; in a dry, dark place.

Pantogam(Pantogamum) is taken orally after 15-30 min after meal. Adults are usually prescribed 0.5-1 G, children - 0.25-0.5 G appointment. Daily dose 1.5-3 G(adults) and 0.75-3 G(children) are divided into 3-6 doses. The course of treatment is 1-6 months. Repeated courses of treatment are carried out in 3-6 months. Release form: tablets of 0.25 and 0.5 G. Storage: in a dry, dark place.

Piracetam(Pyracetamum; synonym: nootropil, pyramem, etc.) is used orally, intramuscularly or intravenously. At the beginning of treatment, the drug is administered orally at 0.4 G 3 times a day and increase the dose to a total daily dose of 2.4-3.2 G and more. Upon reaching the therapeutic effect, the daily dose is reduced to 1.2-1.6 G. For children under 5 years of age, the drug is prescribed orally, usually at 0.2 G for admission, from 5 to 16 years old - 0.4 each G 3 times a day. The duration of the course of treatment is from 2-3 weeks to 2-6 months. Repeated courses of treatment are carried out after 6-8 weeks. Intramuscularly or intravenously, the drug is administered first in daily doses of 2-4 G, then in daily doses of 4-6 G. Release form: capsules containing 0.4 G drug; tablets 0.2 G, coated; 20% solution in ampoules of 5 ml. Storage: list B; in a dry, dark place.

Pyriditol(Pyriditolum; synonym: encephabol, pyritinol, etc.) is administered orally after 15-30 min after meals for adults 0.1-0.3 G at the reception, children - 0.05-0.1 G 2-3 times a day. Daily doses for adults 0.2-0.6 G, for children 0.05-0.3 G. At the beginning of treatment, the drug is taken in smaller than average doses. The course of treatment is from 1-3 months to 6-8 months in adults and from 2 weeks to 3 months in children. Repeated courses are carried out in adults after 1-6 months, in children after 3-6 months. Release form: tablets of 0.05, 0.1 and 0.2 G, coated. Under the name "Encephabol" the drug is produced at 0.1 G in a dragee and in the form of a syrup containing 0.1 G in every 5 ml, in vials of 200 ml. Storage: in a dry, dark place.

1. Small medical encyclopedia. - M.: Medical Encyclopedia. 1991-96 2. First aid. - M.: Great Russian Encyclopedia. 1994 3. Encyclopedic dictionary of medical terms. - M.: Soviet Encyclopedia. - 1982-1984.

See what "Nootropics" are in other dictionaries:

- (nootropics) (from the Greek noos mind and tropos turn, direction), lek. in va, selectively stimulating the functions of the brain and increasing energy. body potential. N. p. are able to accelerate learning processes, improve memory and mental ... ... Chemical Encyclopedia

I Psychotropic drugs (Greek psychē soul, consciousness + tropos turn, direction; synonymous with psychopharmacological drugs) drugs that affect mental functions, emotional sphere and behavior. Distinguish the following ... ... Medical Encyclopedia

I Anti-alcohol drugs drugs that reduce or eliminate the effects of alcohol or the consequences of its use. Among P. with. distinguish between sobering drugs and drugs for the treatment of chronic alcoholism. AT… … Medical Encyclopedia

- (from the Greek psyche soul and tropos turn, direction; psychopharmacological agents), lek. in VA, affecting ch. arr. on the psychic body functions. Unlike some other groups of lek. cf. (e.g., narcotic analgesics, ephedrine, ketamine and its ... ... Chemical Encyclopedia

- (ZHNVLS) a list of medicines approved by the Government of the Russian Federation for the purpose of state regulation of prices for medicines. The list of vital drugs covers almost all types of medical care, ... ... Wikipedia

Check neutrality. The talk page should have details... Wikipedia

Nootropics or nootropics, they are also neurometabolic stimulants, substances taken to improve mental abilities. The term "nootropic" is derived from the Greek. νους reason and τροπή I turn, I interfere, I change. It was introduced in 1972 to describe ... ... Wikipedia

Nootropics or nootropics, they are also neurometabolic stimulants, substances taken to improve mental abilities. The term "nootropic" is derived from the Greek. νους reason and τροπή I turn, I interfere, I change. It was introduced in 1972 to describe ... ... Wikipedia

Nootropics or nootropics, they are also neurometabolic stimulants, substances taken to improve mental abilities. The term "nootropic" is derived from the Greek. νους reason and τροπή I turn, I interfere, I change. It was introduced in 1972 to describe ... ... Wikipedia

Pathological conditions caused by exposure to toxic substances (industrial poisons) in production conditions. Industrial poisons are a large group of toxic substances and compounds that are used in industry as a source ... ... Medical Encyclopedia

This material is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

In medicine, there are drugs that perform a specific function (for example, destroy germs, lower blood pressure, reduce the secretion of fluid into the intestinal lumen). But there is a whole group of tools that can improve such body functions that are difficult to accurately measure and measure. We are talking about the so-called higher mental functions. Such concepts as mental activity, learning ability, brain resistance to harmful influences are multifaceted and complex.

That is why drugs to improve higher nervous activity are so ambiguously evaluated by the world medical community. There is no doubt that a number of these drugs can improve the metabolism of neurons, their absorption of glucose, improve the condition of their cell membranes, and reduce their need for oxygen. It is believed that nootropic drugs (nootropics) can improve the learning process and memory, give clarity of consciousness and "tenacity to attention", reduce the exhaustion of the nervous system and increase the time of the ability to work actively.

Also, nootropic drugs can increase the activity of attention and thinking, improve speech. In some cases, they activate and have an antidepressant effect, and some of these drugs, on the contrary, calm, reduce irritability, and help reduce the convulsive activity of the brain.

Such a multifaceted and wide field of activity for nootropic drugs has allowed them to be prescribed in domestic medicine for a variety of diseases and conditions. These are dementia and parkinsonism, the consequences of neuroinfections and traumatic brain injury, decreased concentration and fatigue in healthy people during a session of intense study, chronic alcoholism and neuroses. Finally, nootropic pills are taken to improve the quality of sleep, and just for prevention in view of the upcoming active mental stress.

Nootropics are also widely used in pediatric practice. In our country, they are first-line drugs, and are included in the review of drugs that treat delayed speech and mental development, the consequences of perinatal trauma, are used in complex therapy in the treatment of cerebral palsy and in the treatment of mild forms of mental retardation.

From the point of view of Western, evidence-based medicine, which requires a quantitative calculation of effectiveness, in practice everything is far from being so simple, but we will talk about this at the end of our review. And now your attention will be presented to the most popular and sold nootropic drugs in Russia, which are mainly produced in tablets.

Overview of Nootropics

Piracetam (Lucetam, Nootropil, Memotropil)

The most famous of the old nootropics, namely Piracetam, opens the review of mental enhancement pills. As evidenced by the official instructions for use, Piracetam is indicated for almost 50 different diagnoses and conditions, ranging from mental retardation and cerebral infarction, to simple old age and vascular dementia, such a volume in itself is doubtful. According to its chemical structure, Piracetam is a derivative of gamma-aminobutyric acid.

We can assume that Piracetam is used in Russia for almost any problems associated with higher nervous activity, and it is contraindicated only in case of hypersensitivity, with Huntington's chorea, and in children under 3 years old. A history of intracerebral hemorrhage or hemorrhagic stroke in anamnesis, taking anticoagulants and chronic renal failure can be considered a limitation for the use of this nootropic agent.

This nootropic is used in tablets inside, as well as intramuscularly. Piracetam is produced in capsules of 400 mg, the packaging is very different - from 10 capsules to 200. At the beginning of treatment, 2 capsules are prescribed 3 times a day before meals, then the dose is gradually reduced by half, to one tablet three times a day. You should focus on a daily dose not exceeding 160 mg per kilogram of body weight. Piracetam is produced by a very large number of domestic and foreign companies, and the cheapest tablets can be purchased already for 30 rubles, 20 capsules

Advantages and disadvantages

The disadvantages of the nootropic Piracetam include the fact (but very important) that after many years of its use in the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) struck it off the list of drugs and downgraded the status to dietary supplements, for lack of evidence-based effectiveness. The advantages of the nootropic include good tolerability, convenience of the release form, inexpensive cost, and availability in almost every Russian pharmacy, which does not guarantee anything in terms of effectiveness.

Phenotropil (Phenylpiracetam, Carphedon)

Phenotropil is also a “record holder” according to indications: the official instruction lists about 60 conditions and diagnoses. It turns out that this nootropic is used for obesity and dementia, schizophrenia with alcoholism, depression and Parkinson's disease, epilepsy and even multiple sclerosis, seizures, intracranial injuries and in connection with problems associated with adapting to lifestyle changes. In other words, if the doctor advised you to stop drinking and smoking, then this will already be an indication for the appointment of Phenotropil. By itself, this medicine, according to the manufacturer, has an anticonvulsant, nootropic, antiasthenic and neuromodulatory effect, and it should be taken after meals in a dose of 100 to 250 mg. For prevention purposes, adults and healthy people need 100 or 200 mg in the morning. This remedy is not recommended to be taken after 15:00 due to its activating effect and possible deterioration of sleep. Tablets of 100 mg are produced by the domestic company Valenta Pharmaceuticals, a nootropic.

Advantages and disadvantages

Perhaps, the disadvantage of nootropic tablets should be attributed to the advantages - a short-term invigorating effect, but this effect was precisely the reason that Phenotropil was banned by the anti-doping committee. In domestic practice, this nootropic is used relatively widely, but in the developed countries of Europe and in the USA it is unknown and not used. There are no recommendations for its use from the official World Health Organization (WHO), as well as a serious evidence base.

Encephabol, or pyritinol, is a kind of nootropic drug that contains a derivative of vitamin B6. As you know, vitamin B6 itself, or pyridoxine, which is produced in the form of hydrochloride, together with thiamine, or vitamin B1, and cyanocobalamin, or vitamin B12, constitute a group of neurotropic vitamins, and are widely used in clinical practice. Encephabol is indicated, according to the manufacturer, for various forms of dementia, mental retardation, impaired memory, attention and orientation, and the consequences of traumatic brain injuries.

The nootropic drug is available in 100 mg tablets and oral suspension. Adults need to take 2 tablets or 2 teaspoons three times a day, and newborns can be prescribed it from the 3rd day after birth, 1 ml per day. According to the manufacturer, therapeutic success is achieved after a month, and the optimal effect after 3 months. This nootropic is produced by the Austrian company Merck, and this drug costs about 800 rubles. for one package of suspension in 200 ml.

Advantages and disadvantages

The negative aspects of Encephabol include the lack of an evidence base for each of the stated indications, or at least a serious study on one of them with a high level of reliability, and, perhaps, individual intolerance. On the positive side of the nootropic is the rare development of this intolerance.

Glycine is truly a popular and cheap drug. It is used under the tongue or dissolved at bedtime, it is prescribed for children and adults to improve memory, performance, it is prescribed in large quantities to patients after a stroke. From the point of view of biochemistry, glycine, or glycocol, is the simplest amino acid that is part of almost any protein, including many proteins in our body. Glycine is also a neurotransmitter, or carrier of certain signals within the brain.

This popular love (good demand) has pushed so many manufacturers to combine glycine in combination with magnesium, with vitamin B6, with vitamin C, and so on. Usually these tablets are taken to relieve tension, facilitate falling asleep, and they are taken sublingually for sucking, in tablets or in powder form after the tablet has been crushed. For adults, it is shown one or two tablets immediately before falling asleep, and for other disorders of the nervous system, the instruction prescribes a certain dosage regimen. The cheapest domestic glycine can be bought starting from 19 rubles. for 50 tablets.

Advantages and disadvantages

The disadvantage of all nootropics is one, but extremely important: there is no evidence that they are effective. Yes, glycine is a neurotransmitter. But the fact is that a neurotransmitter, in order to regulate subtle relationships in the central nervous system, must be produced in it, like acetylcholine, norepinephrine, serotonin. There will be no benefit if the mediator in large quantities comes from the intestines with food to the brain in quantities hundreds of times higher than the desired concentration, or is absorbed into the sublingual vessels. There is a blood-brain barrier that prohibits carrying into the “holy of holies” of the body, its command cabin and control apparatus, everything that has been sucked indiscriminately from the stomach. That is why glycine, which is administered through the mouth, practically does not enter the central nervous system and does not work there as a mediator, and there are no modern evidence-based studies on it. In other words, there are biological and chemical (in vitro) effects from glycine, but therapeutic effects are invisible and not proven.

A positive, and, of course, worthy effect of these pills is sometimes the rapid onset of a calm, physiological sleep in those impressionable subjects who firmly believe in the healing power of glycine. Therefore, glycine may well be a kind of inexpensive and effective placebo, or pacifier, all the power of which is based on the patient's faith.

Semax is no longer one amino acid, but as many as 7 amino acid residues synthesized into one short chain. Produce medicine in the form of drops in the nose, at a concentration of 0, 1, or 1%. This synthetic protein sequence repeats one of the adrenocorticotropic hormone fragments, but lacks hormonal activity. According to the manufacturer, this drug also has a nootropic, antioxidant, and cerebroprotective effect, and due to the original mechanism of absorption, it can be used in ophthalmology, while after 4 minutes the drug penetrates into the structures of the central nervous system, and the therapeutic effect even with a single injection lasts a day. Manufacturers have established a different dosage regimen. So, with damage to the optic nerve, the funds are instilled three drops into each nasal passage three times a day, and for the prevention of stress - one drop into each nasal passage twice a day.

Manufacturers recommend using drops for the entire spectrum of cognitive disorders, the consequences of a stroke, encephalopathy, to prevent mental fatigue, and enhance adaptive capabilities. Contraindications include individual intolerance, pregnancy and lactation, psychosis and convulsions, as well as age up to 5 years. This nootropic drug is produced by domestic CJSC Peptogen, and is not cheap - at a dosage of 0.1% from 350 rubles; and at a dosage of 1% - for 3 ml you will have to pay 1750 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The disadvantage of Semax is the lack of a clear mechanism of action inherent in all nootropics, randomized clinical trials, and its complete unknown in Western Europe and the USA, and silence about Semax by the World Health Organization (WHO). Against this background, the price of almost 2000 rubles is rather doubtful. for a large dosage, but the fact that Semax has practically no symptoms of an overdose and drug interaction is somewhat reassuring, and it is unlikely to be able to harm.

Nootropic Cerebrolysin is a biological drug, that is, a whole complex of protein-like peptides that are obtained from the brain of pigs. In general, the belief that nootropic drugs from the brain of animals help the human brain is an analogue of the ancient beliefs that a strong opponent you eat will make you just as strong. In domestic practice, Cerebrolysin is also prescribed for various types of cerebral circulation disorders, for the consequences of a stroke, for mental retardation, dementia, and for the consequences of traumatic brain injuries.

Cerebrolysin is produced in ampoules, the most popular dosage is 5 ml, five ampoules in one package. In some cases, Cerebrolysin is produced by foreign companies, but by order of a Russian manufacturer and for the domestic market. The cost of one package of Cerebrolysin starts from 915 rubles.

A little about the price of the issue: the manufacturer recommends the optimal course of administration of a nootropic drug in the form of daily injections or infusions, and the duration of the course is usually 2 weeks on average. At the same time, single doses that are recommended when administered intramuscularly should not exceed 5 ml, when administered intravenously as a bolus, that is, immediately - 10 ml, and by setting up an intravenous infusion slowly drip - up to 50 ml per day, for example, with a stroke, and with the consequences brain injury. Thus, no one will forbid a patient to drip the drug for 1800 rubles every day, even after a slight concussion of the brain, if the maximum daily dose is taken (at the price of one ampoule of 5 ml, at least 180 rubles). Thus, for a course of treatment for two weeks of daily droppers, you can pay 27,000 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

As usual, Cerebrolysin does not have the high quality clinical trials with the high level of evidence that are accepted for drug initiation in Western countries. Nevertheless, it is appointed everywhere in our country and successfully advertised. In general, all biological preparations derived from other creatures that are administered, including intravenously, in developed countries are either generally prohibited from being imported into the country or clearly prohibited from use, since they can carry prion infections. But even without this, in 2010 it was proven that Cerebrolysin is ineffective even at high doses for the treatment of stroke. Whether prescribing this nootropic is literally beneficial for the prescribing physician remains open in this case. But we can say with confidence that in our country such cases are not uncommon.

There is nothing special to say about Cortexin, except for an extract from pig brains, a fraction from cattle was also added to Cerebrolysin, and expanded with indications for children (up to 20 kg of weight, that is, almost from birth). The manufacturer gives this nootropic drug the ability to improve brain function, protect neurons from damage, increase their survival and resistance to stress, activate their function, and many other useful properties. In the indications, Cortexin is recommended for use in complex therapy, that is, together with any other means. The manufacturer, apparently, has reason not to trust his nootropic drug, since in monotherapy, that is, if it is only used alone, there is a big risk that there may not be an effect, and this will be immediately visible.

This nootropic is contraindicated only in case of individual intolerance, as well as during pregnancy and lactation. The manufacturer refers to the lack of data from clinical studies for pregnant and lactating women. But, apparently, they are not needed: Cortexin is already in demand.

The manufacturer of Cortexin is the domestic company Geropharm, and the minimum dosage of 5 mg per vial will cost you 540 rubles. for 10 vials. In this case, a single dose, for example, for a stroke, is 2 bottles 2 times a day for 10 days, or 4 packs.

Advantages and disadvantages

The big disadvantage of this nooprop is the reluctance of drug manufacturers to subject it to pharmacokinetic studies, which is routine, but it turns out that the manufacturer knows perfectly well how this drug works - this is a significant advantage. Here are two quotes from the official instructions: "the composition of the drug does not allow for the usual pharmacokinetic analysis of individual components." And the second quote: “The mechanism of action of Cortexin® is due to the activation of neuron peptides and neurotrophic factors of the brain; optimization of the balance of metabolism of excitatory and inhibitory amino acids, dopamine, serotonin; GABA-ergic influence…..». Question: if the manufacturer cannot determine what components are in a nootropic drug, how could they conclude that it is wonderfully effective? And how is the rest of the world not yet ready to put this miracle into practice?

Mexidol (mexiprim)

This nootropic contains ethylmethylhydroxypyridine succinate, which is the only chemical that belongs to the group of antioxidants. Like other nootropics, this drug is indicated for use in cases of overload and mental strain, anxiety and cognitive impairment, neurosis, chronic alcoholism and toxic encephalopathy, damage to the cerebral vessels, including in the elderly, as well as craniocerebral brain injury and its consequences.

Each tablet of Mexidol contains 125 mg of the active substance, and it should be used 1-2 tablets three times a day, no more than 6 tablets can be used as a maximum, and the course of treatment is an average of 3-4 weeks. In the case of relief of alcohol withdrawal syndrome, 7 days is enough. Mexidol is produced by the domestic company ZiO-zdorovye, and one pack of 50 tablets will cost 360 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The disadvantage is the same, namely, no serious data from the standpoint of evidence-based medicine. This, of course, does not mean that there were no studies at all. Of course, they were, but there were always few patients, there were many errors in the studies, there was no randomization and no blinding. Blinding is a necessary condition for the objectivity of the study: a blind study is when the patient does not know whether he is being given an investigational drug or a placebo, a “dummy” for comparison. Double blind is when even the doctor does not know whether he is prescribing a pacifier or a drug declared in the study. Any proper study costs money, including patient insurance, and as a result, the reliability and value of these studies on Mexidol is highly questionable. As for other data, the nootropic drug can affect the ability to drive vehicles, and during the period of treatment it is better to stop driving vehicles, and in case of overdose or at the maximum dose, drowsiness may develop.

Cytoflavin is a complex nootropic drug that contains inosine, vitamins - nicotinamide and riboflavin, and succinic acid. Pharmacologically, it refers to a combination of metabolic drugs, and is indicated for the consequences of a stroke, for atherosclerosis, neurasthenia, and cerebrovascular pathology. At the same time, succinic acid helps to optimize energy metabolism in the cell, nicotinamide and riboflavin are necessary for cellular respiration and stimulation of ATP synthesis, and inosine is a precursor of a high-energy compound - ATP, which is a donor of intracellular energy.

Take a nootropic drug should be 2 tablets twice a day in the morning and evening, but no later than six in the evening, the duration of the course is 25 days. Cases of overdose have not been established, side effects can manifest themselves in the form of a headache, or mild discomfort in the abdomen, as well as in the form of allergic reactions. The drug is contraindicated in pregnant and lactating mothers due to insufficient research. Cytoflavin is produced by the domestic company Polisan, and a package of 50 tablets will cost 360 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

Among the disadvantages of a nootropic drug, it should be noted that, in essence, it is not a nootropic, since it is a combined remedy of vitamins and energy metabolites. Cytoflavin is a fairly well-tolerated drug, like other nootropics, it also does not have a reliable evidence base, but subjectively, many patients, especially the elderly, notice an improvement after parenteral administration of Cytoflavin. Whether this is due to the effect of self-hypnosis, or whether the nootropic drug actually helps, is still unknown.

Pantogam, or hopantenic acid, according to the international classification, belongs to psychostimulants and nootropic drugs. According to the manufacturer, it should be used for very many indications, in addition to standard mental and neurological diagnoses, this acid even in the indications has “limitations in activity caused by a decrease in working capacity”. Such a too broad interpretation of indications for use (and, of course, in favor of the remedy) cannot but cause surprise.

Each tablet contains 250 mg of calcium hopantenate, and it is recommended that adults take no more than 3 g, or 6 tablets per day, and children also no more than 3 g per day. In some cases, the duration of the course of treatment can be 6 months, and after a break of 6 months, such a course can be repeated. We will not list in this review all the detailed dosages of Pantogam, we will only say that in addition to tablets of 250 and 500 mg, the drug is available in syrup, which contains 100 mg of active ingredient per 1 ml. This medicine is produced by the domestic company Peak Pharma. You can buy a bottle of syrup weighing 100 milligrams for 340 rubles, and a package of tablets with a maximum dosage of 0.5 g in the amount of 50 pieces for 470 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

It has already been said above that the disadvantage of all nootropics is at least the lack of an evidence base. That is why they are not used in developed countries of Europe, in Israel and in the USA. But the situation is much worse for the nootropic drug Pantogam. This drug was banned in Japan in the early 1990s, since it was proved that it was the intake of hopantenic acid that led to a number of fatal complications that occurred with the so-called Reye's syndrome (encephalopathy and liver damage in children and adolescents, usually after the appointment of acetylsalicylic acid ). In order not to be unfounded, we provide links to scientific works (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2063999 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3826551 https://www .ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3379435).

Conclusion, or the happy fate of nootropics in Russia

It would be possible to cite a whole number of tablets, and describe in detail in the rating such drugs as Picamilon, Phenibut, Phezam, Gliatilin, Aminalon, Cavinton, Ceraxon, which are positioned as a drug with a nootropic effect. But we will not do this, because we will begin to repeat ourselves.

So, Picamilon, also in the United States of America, was not only recognized as a falsified nootropic drug, but even excluded from the list of dietary supplements. Researchers from the FDA simply analyzed the tablets, in which the active substance was in different amounts, and in one of the tablets it was not found at all. Such falsifications are very strictly punished by law abroad, but we don’t know what the composition of the tablets is in the Russian Federation, and what machines are used in pharmaceutical factories to ensure a uniform content of the active substance in each tablet, and we don’t even think about it.

This information, which allows the reader to think, is not at all a "fly in the ointment in a barrel of honey." It is no coincidence that the list of nootropics is not titled "best" drugs, but "popular" drugs. And that's a big difference. If there is a better nootropic drug, then this means that there is also a worse one, that is, there is an effect from one medicine, and the least effect from another, this can be proved according to the laws of mathematics and medical statistics, because the measure is efficiency.

As for nootropic drugs, they have an extremely large list of indications, which sometimes take dozens of diagnoses. Indeed, in troubled waters you can catch a lot of fish. If we compare this with serious drugs, for example, to lower cholesterol or lower blood pressure, we will see that one or two indications for use, such as hypertension and heart failure, are quite enough. As was shown in the review, even such diagnoses are attracted by the ears, which are not indicators of the disease of the body, for example, "adaptation disorder due to lifestyle changes."

Countries that are world leaders are trying to get rid of those drugs whose effect cannot be proven, as well as from dishonestly acquired and “laundered” money. Wealthy rich Russians go to Germany, Switzerland, Israel and the USA for treatment. And none of them worry about the fact that there they will not be prescribed Cortexin, Cerebrolysin, or Picamilon. In the United States of America, for example, there is not a single drug approved by international recommendations for improving intellectual memory, or cognitive functions, both in sick and healthy people. In developed countries, nootropics are generally not registered as medicines anywhere, since they have not been tested for evidence-based effectiveness.

Of course, it is better to give a nootropic drug to a patient as a magical brain booster than to give him boring and boring advice about how a healthy lifestyle, normalization of weight, quitting smoking and alcohol, healthy sleep, and sports will make him healthy. People perfectly understand and feel that it is precisely such non-drug methods that are effective, and, most importantly, proven in numerous international studies, not only for the prevention, but also for the treatment of many neurological diseases. But a person is arranged in such a way that he wants everything at once, with a minimum expenditure of his strength. Therefore, before you listen to the advice of a domestic specialist and run to buy Cortexin, Piracetam or Phenibut, think several times whether your health needs it. Remember that a wealthy Englishman or American will never do this, and a German doctor or a specialist from the USA, where the profession of a doctor is prestigious and highly paid, will never prescribe nootropics to a patient, since they are clinically ineffective.

*The popularity rating is based on the analysis of demand data from the wordstat.yandex.ru service.
Attention! This rating is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.