Nootropics. What are nootropics. Drugs of the old and new generation

Nootropic drugs are of great relevance. Although the first nootropic drug, Piracetam, was synthesized back in 1964, only now the means to improve the brain activity of this group have been made public, especially among schoolchildren, students and the elderly. Nootropics have virtually no side effects, the most obvious is overexcitability, which can manifest itself either in hyperactivity or in panic attacks. The reviews note that in order to obtain such negative effects, it is necessary to use a very large dosage of the drug, in all other cases, this is nothing more than self-hypnosis.

As a standard, in order to obtain the desired effect, namely, improving brain function, increasing learning ability, and concentration of attention, it is important to drink a course of at least a week to get the first noticeable changes. At the same time, it is not enough just to take the drug and expect new knowledge to appear from nowhere, some kind of enlightenment. It is necessary to constantly use logic, read some information and the like. This is how nootropic drugs can help, for example, the same students before exams; the student must surround himself with the necessary educational literature and begin to study it. Due to the effect of improving blood circulation, oxygenation of brain cells, information is better remembered and absorbed.

Nootropics are relevant not only for advanced youth, but also for the elderly. With age, brain cells begin to actively die, and therefore, symptoms of senile insanity, sclerosis and other age-related diseases associated with brain activity may appear. The elderly body needs help, saturate it with useful elements, and it is nootropics that can significantly improve the overall picture of the life of an elderly person.

Often, nootropic drugs are prescribed to patients with traumatic brain injury, as well as to children with prolonged speech and mental development. In the first case, nootropics will help restore the functioning of the brain, set it back to its original state, and in the second, when the child does not want to start talking or does not show success in learning, the nootropic will allow you to focus on new information, broaden your horizons. Another indication for the use of these funds may be alcohol dependence.

• Online reviews and overall reputation;
• The opinion of representatives of medicine;
• Value for money;
• Trust level;
• Safety.

There are contraindications. Check with your doctor.

Best Budget Nootropics

5 Biotredin

Struggling with alcohol addiction
Country Russia
Average price: 120 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

"Biotredin" is an effective tool used for the treatment of alcohol withdrawal. The drug reduces a person's desire to drink alcohol. The tool reduces psycho-emotional arousal, improves memory and has a positive effect on intellectual performance. From the reviews on the Internet, you can understand that this drug is mainly prescribed for people who abuse alcohol and suffer from physical and psychological alcohol dependence.

Also, the drug is used to improve memory and intellectual activity in children and adolescents. The drug is contraindicated in people with a high susceptibility to vitamin B6. In no case should Biotredin be taken simultaneously with alcohol or while intoxicated.

4 Piracetam

The most popular
Country Russia
Average price: 55 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

"Piracetam" is recognized as one of the best modern nootropic drugs. It is used to speed up metabolic processes and the propagation of impulses in the cerebral cortex, has a beneficial effect on intellectual abilities and memory development, significantly increases the brain's resistance to poisoning by toxins, and accelerates the processing of glucose. It helps to improve the interaction between the hemispheres of the brain. Improves cerebral blood flow, without creating, however, a vasodilating effect.

"Piracetam" is recommended to be taken with weakening of memory, dizziness, decreased attentiveness and learning disabilities in children. Elderly people are advised to take the drug for therapeutic purposes. This drug is contraindicated in people with hypersensitivity, severe renal insufficiency, children under one year old and pregnant women. Also, Piracetam should not be used for hemorrhagic stroke.

3 Picamilon

Relieves older people from migraines
Country Russia
Average price: 100 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

"Pikamilon" refers to nootropic drugs that have a tranquilizing, psychostimulating and antioxidant effect. It has a positive effect on brain function by improving tissue metabolism and affecting cerebral circulation. The course of taking the drug increases physical and intellectual activity, reduces pain in the head, improves memory, helps to reduce feelings of anxiety and tension. Improves blood circulation in the vessels of the retina and optic nerve.

Helps patients with minor motor and speech disorders, reduces the negative impact of toxins on the central nervous system. The agent is used as part of complex therapy to prevent migraine in the elderly, with cerebrovascular accidents. According to experts, the drug is one of the best in the treatment of severe alcohol and drug addiction. "Pikamilon" is contraindicated in people suffering from kidney disease and having hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

2 Phenibut

Relieves anxiety conditions
Country Russia
Average price: 150 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

Phenibut is a prescription nootropic drug that has a strong anxiolytic effect, reducing excitability, anxiety and fear. Prolongs and enhances the effect of the use of sleeping pills. With a course application, it positively affects the physical and intellectual activity of a person, improves memory, and restores healthy sleep.

Usually prescribed for children with stuttering and enuresis, elderly people suffering from insomnia and night anxiety. Also, this remedy is often used as part of complex therapy for those suffering from alcohol withdrawal syndrome. According to experts, the drug is contraindicated in pregnant women for children under three years of age. Should be taken with caution in gastric ulcers and liver failure. The drug is taken according to the doctor's prescription and is sold by prescription.

1 Glycine

The best ratio of price and quality
Country Russia
Average price: 30 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0

Glycine is an amino acid produced by the human body. "Glycine" is a natural drug that improves memory and mental activity. Reduces the conflict of a person, improves the ability to social adaptation. The use of this tool allows you to normalize sleep, which is especially important for the elderly. Also, this amino acid restores the functions of the central nervous system after toxic poisoning with alcohol or other medications.

It is recommended to take "Glycine" during stressful situations, problems at work or study, with a decrease in mental performance and with diseases of the nervous system, expressed by high excitability, sleep problems and emotional instability. Since glycine is a natural product, it has no special contraindications, with the exception of personal susceptibility to the components of the drug.

The Best Mid-Range Nootropics

5 Pantogam

Neutralizes psycho-emotional overload
Country Russia
Average price: 640 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6

"Pantogam" significantly increases the resistance of the brain to hypoxia and the effects of toxic substances on the central nervous system, stimulates anabolic processes in neurons. Reduces excitability and positively affects the social behavior of a person. Effectively affects intellectual activity and activity.

The drug is widely used in medicine: to neutralize the effects of psycho-emotional overload, with neurotic disorders caused by craniocerebral injuries, with a decrease in intellectual and physical activity, loss of concentration and attention. "Pantogam" is contraindicated in pregnant women, people suffering from serious kidney disease and persons under 18 years of age.

4 Nootropil

Accelerates the propagation of neural impulses
Country: Belgium
Average price: 330 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

"Nootropil" is a nootropic drug that improves memory, increases concentration and activates mental activity. The drug stabilizes the metabolic processes in nerve cells, has a beneficial effect on the central nervous system by increasing the speed of propagation of neural impulses in the brain. The drug is excellent for eliminating the effects of ischemic stroke.

It can be effectively used for the rehabilitation of patients who have undergone traumatic brain injury or toxic poisoning of the brain. In particular, it can be used to increase learning in children. It is not recommended for people with cerebrovascular accidents, suffering from renal insufficiency or having an increased susceptibility to the components of the drug. It is also contraindicated in children under three years of age.

3 Intellan

herbal ingredients
Country: Pakistan
Average price: 175 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

"Intellan" is a herbal preparation containing bioactive amino acids, vitamins and other important microelements. It has a positive effect on memory, mental activity, actively fights anxiety and depression. According to experts, Intellan does not affect a person's ability to act, which makes it one of the best nootropic drugs for car owners.

The remedy is used for reducing mental activity, neurotic syndromes associated with mental illness, memory impairment and absent-mindedness, as well as for depression and anxiety. "Intellan" is contraindicated in persons under the age of eighteen and pregnant women. The drug should not be taken by those suffering from diseases of the cardiovascular systems, with a deficiency of sucrose and fructose intolerance. During an exacerbation of mental illness, the drug is also contraindicated.

2 Semax

The best nasal preparation
Country Russia
Average price: 600 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

"Semax" is a unique peptide drug, the hormonal activity of which is zero. It has a positive effect on the processes of perception of the surrounding world, improves learning and attentiveness. Promotes rapid adaptation of the central nervous system to the effects of anesthesia. It is a prescription drug and is used only as prescribed by a specialist.

As a rule, it is used to treat people who have had an ischemic stroke, as well as for rehabilitation after traumatic brain injuries and severe anesthesia. It has long been used in pediatrics to treat brain dysfunctions in children over five years of age. "Semax" can not be prescribed to children under five years of age and pregnant women. It is important to note that the drug is contraindicated in people who are in a state of acute mental disorder, accompanied by an acute sense of anxiety.

1 Cavinton

Targeted impact on damaged areas of the central nervous system
Country Russia
Average price: 250 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0

"Cavinton" has a beneficial effect on cerebral circulation, reduces blood viscosity and promotes the passage of oxygen through the tissues of the central nervous system. In this case, the drug does not affect the total blood pressure of a person and his pulse rate. The peculiarity of this tool is that it selectively acts on the damaged area of ​​​​the central nervous system. The product is used and sold only by prescription.

The ability to point action, called "reverse steal", makes "Cavinton" one of the best drugs for the treatment of the effects of stroke, vascular dementia and cerebrovascular accidents. It is also used to treat the choroid and retina of the eye, and even to treat Meniere's disease. The drug is contraindicated in women during pregnancy, persons under 18 years of age, people suffering from arrhythmia, coronary heart disease and having an acute phase of hemorrhagic stroke.

The best nootropic drugs: budget from 750 rubles

5 Cortexin

Most versatile
Country Russia
Average price: 780 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

"Cortexin" has a positive effect on the central and peripheral nervous systems. The drug well improves memory, attentiveness and learning, counteracts the influence of stressful situations on the nervous system, reduces the effects of toxic substances on brain cells. This nootropic is often used in medicine to eliminate the consequences of traumatic brain injury, circulatory disorders and epilepsy.

The drug has gained great popularity among parents of children with delayed psychomotor and speech development. Also, the medicine is widely known among students, during the examination period, with a deterioration in learning and attentiveness. "Cortexin" is not recommended for pregnant women due to the lack of accurate data from clinical studies. Contraindicated in case of high personal sensitivity to the components of the drug.

4 Encephabol

Combats mental retardation in children
Country: India
Average price: 750 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

"Encephabol" accelerates metabolism in the brain, increasing the rate of glucose utilization. Stabilizes blood circulation in ischemic areas of the brain. The drug restores impaired metabolic functions in the nervous tissue, which has a beneficial effect on improving memory, attentiveness and the general tone of the central nervous system. "Encephabol" shows good results in the treatment of systematic decreases in mental activity.

This tool helps to get rid of the consequences of encephalitis, and is also used in pediatrics in the treatment of cerebroasthenic syndrome and mental retardation in children. "Encephabol" is contraindicated in renal failure, liver disease and autoimmune diseases. May cause allergic reactions in people who are highly sensitive to pyritinol.

3 Phenotropil

Relieves stress conditions
Country Russia
Average price: 1000 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

"Phenotropil" is a nootropic drug that improves blood flow to the brain, the ability to think, memory and attentiveness. Also, this drug increases the resistance of the central nervous system to the effects of stressful situations on it. It is used for insufficient cerebral circulation, neurosis, depression and to neutralize the effects of alcohol and drugs.

It is possible to take the drug prophylactically by people whose activities are associated with high psychophysical tension. "Phenotropil" is contraindicated for use in severe kidney and liver diseases, atherosclerosis, arterial hypertension and high sensitivity to compounds of the pyrrolidone group. If a person has experienced a panic attack or severe psychotic states in the past, then the use of this drug is also contraindicated for him.

2 Pramiracetam

Restores cognitive functions of the brain
Country: Germany
Average price: 3500 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

Pramiracetam is a nootropic drug from the racetam group. The effectiveness of this tool has not been fully proven, but, according to experts, it has a positive effect on increasing intellectual activity and cognitive functions of the brain. Improves memory, concentration and attentiveness. To achieve the full effect, it is recommended to take this drug for four to eight weeks.

As follows from the above, Pramiracetam should be taken with a decrease in mental performance, loss of concentration and memory problems. Elderly people are recommended to take the drug for therapeutic purposes. Like other nootropics, Pramiracetam has no specific contraindications. The reviews rarely write about side effects, but with a significant excess of the dosage in the first days of the course, patients complained of headache, insomnia, anxiety, nervousness and tremor.

1 Kogitum

The best stimulating effect
Country: France
Average price: 4500 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0

"Cogitum" has a beneficial effect on metabolic processes in nerve tissues and has a stimulating effect. Increases physical activity and immunity. The drug is able to accelerate the removal of ammonia from the body in case of intoxication with this substance, and slightly reduce the radioactive impact. It is often used as part of the complex therapy of asthenic syndrome, as well as for depressive and neurotic conditions of mild severity.

"Cogitum" increases the overall endurance of the central nervous system. Contraindicated in people with high personal sensitivity to acetylaminosuccinic acid and other components of the drug. It is not recommended for pregnant women and children under seven children, due to the lack of clinical studies with this group of patients.

What are new generation nootropic drugs and how do they differ from other drugs of this group, what active ingredients do they contain and for what diseases and disorders are they indicated, the rules for using nootropics.

Nootropic drugs of the new generation are the means that are responsible for stimulating the brain and its work, protecting nervous reactions. The list of new drugs in this group is quite large. As a rule, these are complex substances that consist of the nootropic component itself, as well as a number of additional ingredients, such as amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins, which improve the functioning of brain cells.

Features and types of new generation nootropics

Nootropics in various forms have been used by people since ancient times. The simplest and very first known nootropic is choline. The substance contains eggs, meat, fish, seafood. After eating a meal that is rich in animal protein, the hormone serotonin is produced in the brain.

It is responsible for the feeling of pleasure, and also positively affects the connections of neurons. The brain is included in active work, memory becomes better, as well as thought processes. Similar nootropic simplest substances are found in green tea, coffee, nicotine, amphetamines.

After nootropic drugs were developed and studied in the laboratory in the middle of the 20th century, a classification of these drugs was created: stimulants, reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, racetams, vasodilators, metabolic enhancers.

Currently, racetams are mainly used in medicine. These substances are the basis of new nootropics. Racetams are a chemical structure that is derived from pyrrolidine. To date, there are many different pharmacological preparations of the new generation.

Previously, in order to improve mental activity, plant components such as lemongrass, ginseng, ginkgo biloba were widely used. These plants are now the ingredients of nootropic drugs. Unlike natural natural stimulants, the latter have a more precise effect on specific areas of the brain.

This makes it possible to use new drugs not only to enhance memory and improve intelligence, but also in the treatment of more serious abnormalities and ailments, such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. Due to this, these drugs are considered the most effective among all nootropics.

Composition and characteristics of the components of new nootropics

As a rule, such drugs contain two or more components that complement each other's action. Often in the composition of new nootropics can be found:

1. Dimethylaminoethanol. This is a substance that is actively involved in the synthesis of acetylcholine. Acts as an antioxidant, improves memory, mental abilities, physical endurance.
2. Gamma aminobutyric acid. The main inhibitory neurotransmitter of the CNS. It takes an active part in the metabolism of the brain, as well as in neurotransmitter processes.
3. Pantothenic acid (B5). Participates in the metabolic processes of the brain, the synthesis of acetylcholine. Participates in the synthesis of neurotransmitters.
4. Pyridoxine (B6). This is a coenzyme of proteins, which is involved in the uniform supply of glucose to the cells of the body, is involved in the processing of amino acids.
5. Vitamin B15. Helps eliminate cell hypoxia, has a vasodilating effect, has a detoxifying property.
6. Vitamin E. It takes part in the synthesis of hormones, acts as an antioxidant, prevents the formation of blood clots, and helps the muscles to function normally.
7. Folic acid. Participates in the processes of DNA replication, in cell division.

Useful properties of new generation nootropic drugs

According to the definition of the World Health Organization, the group of new generation nootropics should include drugs that have a direct activating effect on the learning process, memory, and mental activity. In addition, these drugs increase the resistance of the brain to various aggressive factors.

The general properties of new nootropic drugs are as follows:

• Improving thought processes - learning or cognitive functions;
• Increasing the speed of memorization and durability of data storage;
• Growth of intellectual activity, increase in the volume of intellectual abilities;
• Forgetfulness of stressful conditions and information about various pains;
• Stimulation of metabolic processes in neuronal tissue, mainly in various pathologies, such as intoxication, trauma, anoxia;
• Improving the impact on the mental state and higher nervous activity in morphological and functional pathologies;
• The growth of the resistance of the mental processes of the brain to adverse factors of the internal and external environment: stroke, trauma, hypoxia.

New generation nootropic drugs do not affect the psyche and higher nervous activity of a healthy person.

Indications for the use of new nootropics

Let us consider in more detail what are the indications for taking new generation nootropic drugs to increase mental activity:

1. Psychoorganic Syndrome. In medicine, it is understood as an extensive group of diseases that manifest themselves in dystrophic changes in nervous tissues. These are such ailments: epilepsy, various types of dementia, Parkinson's disease, neuroinfections, cerebral palsy, ischemic stroke.
2. Chronic alcoholism, which is accompanied by withdrawal symptoms and delirium.
3. Addiction.
4. Organic and neurotic asthenia, asthenoneurotic and asthenodepressive syndromes, VVD, migraine, sleep disorders, emotional lability.
5. Correction of the neuroleptic syndrome.
6. Violation of proper urination of neurogenic etiology.
7. Somatic-vegetative disorders.
8. Neurotic and neurosis-like pathologies.
9. Chronic cerebrovascular insufficiency.
10. Sickle cell anemia.
11. Chronic psychopathology, schizophrenia, childhood oligophrenia, neurosis-like disorders, depression.
12. Organic brain syndrome of the elderly.
13. As part of the complex treatment of ophthalmic pathologies.

Side effects and contraindications of new nootropics

Each drug of the nootropic class has its own contraindications. In general terms, the following can be distinguished:

• Pregnancy;
• Lactation;
• Individual intolerance to the components;
• Psychomotor agitation;
• bulimia;
• kidney failure;
• Liver failure;
• Chorea of ​​Huntington;
• Period after acute hemorrhagic stroke;
• Severe renal impairment.

The mechanism of action of new generation nootropic drugs

Nootropic drugs directly affect a number of brain functions. As a result, the interaction between the hemispheres and the main centers of the cortex improves.

New generation drugs increase the utilization of sugar, as well as the formation of ATP, have a stimulating effect on the synthesis of RNA and proteins. The process of oxidative phosphorylation under their influence is suspended, and cell membranes are stabilized.

The mechanisms of action of new nootropics include:

1. Antioxidant;
2. Membrane stabilizing;
3. Neuroprotective;
4. Antihypoxic.

The advantage of this mechanism of action is that there are no irreversible changes in the cortex. With the ease with which racetam molecules bind to receptors, they are detached.

In addition, since the human body does not produce racetams on its own, it is unlikely that there will be side products that can cause negative effects. Thus, a powerful nootropic effect is achieved without side effects.

Each racetam is uniquely formulated to bind to specific neuroreceptors. As a rule, such drugs are used in groups in order to achieve the best effect.

The effectiveness of new generation nootropic drugs for the elderly increases if they are combined with psychostimulants and angioprotectors. Thus, disturbed intellectual functions are stimulated and corrected. For children, neurometabolic stimulants are recommended to combat mental retardation.

Instructions for using new nootropics

Self-administration of new generation nootropic drugs without a doctor's recommendation is prohibited. It is only permissible to use herbal medicines based on ginkgo biloba, lemongrass and other plants without prescribing. Such drugs are rather biologically active additives than medicines.

There are many different drugs in this group. They have a different form and direction of action. They are mainly produced in the form of tablets, capsules, injection solutions and suspensions.

It should be noted that the maximum effectiveness of the use of these drugs is achieved only after several weeks and even months.

Overview of New Generation Nootropics

The list of new generation nootropic drugs is quite extensive. As a rule, the latest drugs have a combined composition and combine racetams and excipients.

Popular means are:

• Phezam. It is a combination of Piracetam and Cynarizine. The medicine is in the form of capsules. It is recommended as a tool in the complex therapy for the treatment of circulatory disorders in the brain. After its use, microcirculation in the brain improves, blood vessels expand, vision and hearing improve. The drug eliminates the effects of hypoxia, relieves headaches, dizziness, fights amnesia. As a rule, people who have suffered a stroke, encephalitis and various traumatic brain injuries are prescribed Phezam for a long time. The price for a package of the drug (60 capsules) ranges from 170 to 250 rubles.
• Orocetam. The combination of piracetam and orotic acid. These are intravenous injections. The drug helps to overcome severe brain intoxication. Improves metabolic processes in brain cells. Activates the reparative and detoxifying function of the liver. The price is about 50 rubles per ampoule of the drug.
• Thiocetam. Combination of piracetam and thiotriosalin. It is in the form of tablets and injections. It is used to improve cerebral circulation in the cerebral cortex. It is often used to treat speech disorders and the effects of alcohol intoxication. The price of the new generation nootropic drug Thiocetam is 540 rubles per pack of 60 tablets.

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 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 neuroprotectors. 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.

Nootropics are most often recommended for children with mental retardation, as well as with various disorders of the nervous system.

What other indications exist for taking medications? It:

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:

The drug is a unique cerebroprotector Semax(drops in the nose, 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, medicine 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:

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 medicine is 300 rubles, 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.

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:

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

The list of drugs in this group contains substances that help protect the brain from damage and stimulate nerve cells to restore them to the level of healthy people.

Nootropic, what is it?

The concept of "nootropic drug" was first introduced in the last century by Belgian pharmacologists.

Nootropics are neurometabolic stimulants that activate metabolic processes in the brain, increasing its overall resistance to extreme situations and impacts.

A distinctive factor from psychostimulants is that nootropics are antihypoxants (resist oxygen starvation of the brain), but they do not negatively affect the human body, do not lead to brain malfunctions, and do not disrupt movement coordination.

Medicines of this group are often of interest to students and people who experience strong intellectual or stressful loads, since the instructions indicate that the drugs contribute to better assimilation of information, quick thinking, improvements in learning and smoothes the effect on the brain during stress and mental stress.

In pharmacology, there is one division of nootropics, into two groups:

What pharmacological group do they belong to?

The nootropic group includes drugs with nootropic action, and they are assigned in pharmacology under the coding (ATC code: N06BX).

The first drug in the group of nootropic drugs is Piracetam.

It was opened back in 1963, and gave a start to their development. The nootropic became the main competitor of psychostimulants, since the side effects from it were not so serious.

Therapy with nootropics does not cause addiction, toxic damage, excitation and exhaustion of the body, inherent in psychostimulants. In the early stages of drug development, it was used to treat brain dysfunction in the elderly.

Fact! In modern pharmacology, Piracetam is listed under the name Nootropil.

The table shows a list of drugs that are most often prescribed in the treatment of nootropics.

The mechanism of action of nootropics

Most drugs of the nootropic group act on neurotransmitters (substances that promote the interaction of nerve cells with each other).

Nootropic therapy affects acetylcholine (which carries out neuromuscular transmission), serotonin (hormone of happiness), dopamine (the precursor of norepinephrine, is a necessary part of the "reward system" of the brain, as it induces a feeling of pleasure, which affects the processes of motivation and learning) and norepinephrine ( one of the most important mediators of wakefulness).

The nootropic effect can prolong life and rejuvenate the body.

Also, these drugs protect nerve cells from deformation and eliminate oxygen starvation, stimulate metabolic processes and simply improve blood circulation in brain tissues.

Different drugs of the nootropic group can have different effects on the body, it all depends on the group to which the drug belongs.

Among them:

Fact! It may take from a couple of days to a couple of weeks to initiate biochemical processes in the brain, depending on the drug used. This explains the fact that nootropics are used in courses. It does not make sense to drink pills immediately before brain loads, you need to start using them about a month in advance.

What effect do nootropics have?

The impact on the above mechanisms in the brain makes it possible to conclude that the following positive effects on the body and its systems are:

• Vasovegetative action characterized by the acceleration of blood circulation and the elimination of the main signs of neurocircular dystonia;
• Antihypoxic action due to the formation of increased resistance of brain cells to oxygen starvation;
• Antidepressant action. Separate nootropics are prescribed for depression, and are aimed at counteracting it;
• Psychostimulating action due to stimulation of the functioning of the brain in people with mental disorders suffering from apathy, motor retardation;
• Antiepileptic action characterized by the fact that it prevents convulsions, confusion and its complete loss, as well as the prevention of behavioral disorders and the autonomic system;
• Action with a sedative effect characterized by a calming effect;
• Nootropic action directed to the stimulation of cognitive activity;
• Antitoxic action e is the neutralization, or removal of toxins from the human body;
• Adaptogenic action due to the development of the body's resistance to the influence of negative factors;
• Immunostimulating action characterized by strengthening the immune system and increasing the overall resistance of the body;
• Lipolytic action due to the use of fatty acids as an energy source.

Note! Nootropics, in most cases, are prescribed for the elderly and children. This is explained by the fact that in old age it is necessary to correct deviations in the functionality of intellectual activity (memory, attention). Appointment in childhood occurs in the fight against violations of the intellectual development of the child.

Is it dangerous to treat nootropics and are they harmful?

The consequences of using nootropics can range from headaches and dizziness to overexcitation of the nervous system.

But since they are not pathologically dangerous, the catalog of drugs can be prescribed to almost any patient.

The most serious and common side effect is withdrawal.

It can occur with a sharp cessation of the use of medicines, which leads to the suffering of the body.

Its most common manifestations can be in headaches, lethargy, aggressiveness, sleep loss, dizziness, etc. that is why the termination of the course of treatment occurs with a gradual decrease in the drugs used.

The main side effects noted with nootropics are listed below:

Indications for the use of nootropics

The main indications for the appointment of nootropics and their therapy are as follows:

Contraindications to the use of nootropics are:

• hemorrhagic stroke;
• Severe kidney pathology;
• The period of bearing and feeding a child;
• Insufficiency of the kidneys, or liver;
• Clearly manifested psychomotor agitation;
• Sensitivity to the active substances of the drug.

Most Common Nootropics

Medicines of nootropic therapy are divided into groups of new and old generation. The latter include medicines that were discovered a long time ago, even at the start of neurostimulators. These are production forms from Piracetam.

These drugs are:

• Pramiracetam;
• Aniracetam;
• Oxiracetam;
• Isacetam;
• Etiracetam;
• detiracetam;
• Nefiracetam.

After the nineties of the twentieth century, there was a new round in the history of the development of nootropics. New drugs are distinguished by a selective effect on individual functions of the body.

The most commonly prescribed new generation drugs are:

• Pantogam- the most effective nootropic agent, often used for treatment in childhood. The main active ingredient is vitamin B15, which is found in almost all plant substances;
• Phenibut is prescribed for a state of general weakness, neuroses, sleep disturbances and deviations in the normal functioning of the vestibular apparatus. The interaction of Phenibut helps children overcome stuttering and various tics. This drug normalizes metabolism, stimulates mental processes (memory, attention, etc.), and also has an antioxidant effect. This preparation practically does not contain toxins and does not cause allergies;
• Phezam is a nootropic prescribed in combination with other drugs for malfunctions of blood circulation in the brain cavity. This drug eliminates the effects of oxygen starvation, helps with headaches, migraines, dizziness and memory loss. Long courses of treatment are prescribed for stroke, traumatic brain injury and inflammation of the membranes and tissues of the brain;
• Piracetam is a classic remedy prescribed to improve metabolic processes in the brain. Effectively treats dizziness, improves memory, and treats encephalopathy in childhood. The drug quickly removes the negative effects of excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages. It is used for viral type neuroinfections and as one of the drugs for recovery after the death of heart muscle tissues. The drug is sold both in tablets and in ampoules, solutions, syrups and capsules, which helps to choose the most convenient form of application;
• Cinnarazine- a drug of the nootropic group, which helps to expand the walls of cerebral vessels and helps to increase their size without violating blood pressure indicators. Nootropil cinnarizine is an effective drug against motion sickness, as well as suppression of nystagmus. The drug helps to stop high blood pressure, sensation of tinnitus, general weakness, pain in the head, restores normal sleep, removes aggressiveness, etc .;
• Actovegin- a drug of the nootropic group, aimed at combating oxygen starvation of the brain, restoring metabolic processes, and contributing to the rapid healing of wounds. The drug is available in tablets and in the form of an ointment or cream;
• Cerebrolysin is a nootropic used in combination with other drugs. This drug has passed all the tests, and confirmed its safety and effectiveness. Stimulates mental activity and improves mood. Long-term use of the drug improves memory processes, increases concentration and the ability to learn.

What actions will help you recover faster and keep your body in good shape?

Preventive actions in order not to come to the use of nootropics are:

• Compliance with the regime of the day with proper rest and sleep (at least 8 hours);
• Proper nutrition should be balanced and versatile, with a large amount of vitamins and nutrients;
• Maintaining water balance (at least 1.5 liters of pure water per day) will help the blood not to thicken and circulate normally;
• Avoid stressful situations, psycho-emotional and intellectual overload;
• Quit smoking, alcohol and drugs;
• Get a full check-up once a year.

Conclusion

Preparations of the nootropic group are effective means used to improve the functioning of brain processes.

It is especially effective to take them in courses, in advance of intellectual or psycho-emotional stress.

A wide range of drugs and a low chance of side effects make drugs affordable and effective. In order to prevent burdens, it is better to consult a qualified doctor.

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;
• 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.

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

1. Psychostimulating - stimulation of brain functions in mentally inert individuals suffering from hypobulia, apathy, psychomotor retardation.
2. Antihypoxic - formation of resistance of brain cells to oxygen deficiency.
3. Sedative - soothing, inhibiting effect on the body.
4. Antiasthenic - elimination of symptoms of asthenic syndrome.
5. Antidepressant - the fight against depression.
6. Antiepileptic - prevention of convulsions, loss and confusion of consciousness, behavioral and autonomic disorders.
7. Nootropic - stimulation of cognitive activity.
8. Adaptogenic - the development of the body's resistance to the effects of negative factors.
9. Vasovegetative - acceleration of cerebral blood flow and elimination of the main symptoms.
10. Lipolytic - the use of fatty acids as an energy source.
11. Antitoxic - neutralization or excretion of various toxic substances from the body.
12. 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:

1. hyperexcitability,
2. Weakness,
3. Insomnia,
4. Anxiety, anxiety,
5. dyspeptic symptoms,
6. Hepato- or nephrotoxicity,
7. eosinophilia,
8. Frequent attacks of angina pectoris
9. Convulsions, epileptic seizures,
10. imbalance,
11. hallucinations,
12. Ataxia,
13. confusion,
14. Fever,
15. Thrombophlebitis and pain at the injection site,
16. motor disinhibition,
17. Feeling of heat and flushing of the face,
18. 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.