Nootropics are the best drugs. Modern nootropic drugs for children and adults. When are nootropics prescribed?

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 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 cerebrovascular accidents, 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 Mexidol tablet 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 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 dummy 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 the 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 about it, 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. Prosperous 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.

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:

The term "nootropics" appeared in 1972, this word consists of two Greek "noos" - mind and "tropos" - change. It turns out that nootropics are designed to change the human mind, with the help of biochemistry, affecting the central nervous system.

Their predecessors in improving the functioning of the brain were psychostimulants, which had a strong, but short-term effect on a person. They increased the body's endurance, resistance to stress, caused general excitement, activity and euphoria. If not for the strongest negative side effects and the emergence of addiction, psychostimulants would have conquered humanity. But the aftereffect in the form of severe depression and a complete breakdown of strength oppressed a person so much that he could even drive him to suicide.

Synthetic nootropics

After taking nootropics, there are practically no negative effects, they are not addictive. But they also do not have psychostimulants. To feel the result of taking nootropics, you need to take a course lasting 1-3 months.

The action of nootropic drugs is due to the improvement and acceleration of metabolism in nerve tissues, the protection of neurons in the event of a lack of oxygen and toxic effects. In fact, nootropics protect the brain from aging. There are a lot of nootropics on the market right now, but here are some of the more common ones:

Piracetam (Nootropil) is the first of the nootropics. It is prescribed for disorders of attention and memory, nervous disorders, brain injuries, alcoholism and vascular diseases. It can also be used independently (without exceeding the dose) for better perception and assimilation of the training material. The following side effects were rarely noted: drowsiness or agitation, dizziness and nausea, increased sexual activity. The analogue of "Piracetam" ("Nootropil") is "Phenotropil" ("Phenylpiracetam").

"Acephen" ("Cerutil", "Meclofenoksat", "Centrofenoksin") contains the substance of acetylcholine - a transmitter of nervous excitation, an indispensable participant in the work of the human NS. This series of nootropic drugs accelerates all processes of excitation and inhibition, improves blood supply to the brain, and has a psychostimulating effect. It also protects the brain from aging and is used in conjunction with Piracetam to improve mental abilities. There were side effects from the side of the National Assembly: anxiety, insomnia, increased appetite.

"Selegiline" ("Deprenyl", "Yumex") contains the substance selegiline, which suppresses the action of enzymes that inhibit phenethylamine and dopamine. After 40 years of pleasure enzymes of the dopamine series, much less is produced than in youth. "Selegilin" is positioned as for people of middle and old age. It is used in the treatment of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. With a sufficiently long-term use of the drug, memory, mood and general well-being improve. "Selegiline", according to medical scientists, when taken at 5 mg per day, can increase a person's life expectancy by 15 years!

They are a group of psychotropic drugs that can increase the resistance of the human nervous system. They help to quickly solve the problem with injuries, oxygen starvation, poisoning, strong physical exertion, and insomnia.

How do nootropics enhance the capabilities of the brain?

Drugs of this type directly affect various functions of the brain, bring them into activity and make the mind and memory processes work. These medications can facilitate the interaction of both hemispheres and the main centers that are located on the cerebral cortex. To achieve the desired effect, nootropics perform the following actions:

• stabilization of cell membranes;
• increased glucose utilization;
• elimination of oxidation processes;
• activation of the formation of proteins and ATP.

What are the disadvantages of using nootropics?

Such drugs do not pose a serious threat to the human body, since they do not affect any important functions. But at the same time, they have a number of contraindications and side effects that you should definitely study before using drugs.

Prohibited states when taking nootropics include:

• age up to three years;
• problems with the endocrine system;
• allergic reactions to the component composition;
• severe renal failure;
• the period of gestation or breastfeeding.

As for side effects, they are quite rare, since most patients tolerate these medications well. In some situations, the following reactions occur:

• drowsiness throughout the day;
• allergies;
• a sharp change in blood pressure;
• dyspeptic pathologies;
• nervousness.

Top 20 best nootropics. List of drugs by effectiveness

A fairly effective and completely safe remedy can have a beneficial effect on the brain, improving blood circulation and its activity.

This drug does not dilate blood vessels, makes the neuromuscular connection stronger and utilizes glucose.

Another advantage of the nootropic is its positive effect on the learning process and improving the memorization of information.

As for the shortcomings, buyers highlight only one nuance - the effect is not noticed immediately, but only after a couple of weeks from the moment you start taking the drug.

2. Phenotropil

Tablets have anti-amnestic properties, improve mood and increase the resistance of the human body to stressful conditions.

They are prescribed by specialists in case of depression, convulsive conditions, chronic alcoholism, as well as neurotic problems. The drug is famous for its ability to improve vision and facilitate the learning process. In addition, it replenishes energy reserves in the consumer's body.

In addition to contraindications to the use of the nootropic, it has another disadvantage - you can buy it only with a doctor's prescription.

3. Combitropil

The product, sold in the form of capsules, contains cinnarizine and piracetam, which ensures its increased effectiveness.

It has not only nootropic, but also a vasodilating effect.

Among the negative qualities, only caution is noted when taking the drug for a long time, as side effects may appear.

4. Biotredin

A drug that improves memory, concentration and attention, helps reduce the craving for alcohol, and also eliminates headaches of any type. It is also important in the exchange of nucleic acids, as it improves it almost instantly.

Patients also like the remedy for increasing clarity in consciousness, discovering the hidden capabilities of the brain, the state of wakefulness and increasing vitality.

The disadvantages include the incompatibility of the drug with other antipsychotic pills, as well as an additional contraindication - hypersensitivity to vitamin B.

5. Calcium hopantenate

This remedy carries out its beneficial effect on the brain thanks to the main active substance, which is hopantenic acid.

The nootropic has anticonvulsant and analgesic properties, helps improve concentration and memory, and also speeds up blood flow in the brain. It does not contain toxic elements and is well tolerated by the body.

The negative sides include the increased effect of sedative pills and a prescription from a doctor upon purchase.

The excellent corrector of blood circulation in the brain is liked by both doctors and patients for its high efficiency and ability to improve mental activity in a short time.

The downside is the fact that when prescribing the drug intravenously, it must be administered slowly, which not every person can do on their own.

A drug with analgesic, nootropic and tranquilizing effects improves metabolic processes in tissues, copes well with mental disorders and helps reduce anxiety.

Moreover, the tool helps to increase the resistance of the human brain to oxygen starvation and the adverse effects of toxins.

As for the disadvantages of this drug, they all come down only to the main side effects and contraindications.

The remedy in the form of drops stimulates the energy processes of the brain and increases its resistance to various stresses and hypoxia.

It is absorbed quite quickly, does not affect the hormonal background and does not harm health. It is also worth noting the neurometabolic effect of the nootropic, which is pronounced even in the case of taking drops in minimal doses.

The downside is irritation of the nasal mucosa if you use the remedy for too long.

9. Acephen

The composition is good in that it helps to improve the blood supply to the brain, eliminate depression, activate cognitive activity, and also develop the body's resistance to lack of oxygen and toxic effects. It also has an antihypoxic effect and calms the nervous system.

Speaking about the shortcomings of the remedy, it is worth mentioning not only the need for a prescription from a doctor upon purchase, but also the fact that in patients with schizophrenia taking this drug, hallucinations begin to appear more often and their duration increases.

10. Cogitum

This type of nootropic gained popularity due to the relief of the condition of patients with cerebral palsy, the restoration of the nervous system, as well as the ability to take not only with water, but also with other drinks.

Its negative quality is hyperactivity or excessive tearfulness in children taking the drug, although such phenomena are rarely observed.

11. Glycine

Well-known soothing pills are famous for being allowed to be taken by both adults and children.

In addition, they are available without a prescription and are affordable for everyone. The tool calms the nerves, makes cognitive functions work, activates thought processes and speeds up memorization.

In addition, its components quickly penetrate the tissues, so it does not take long to wait for a positive effect.

12. Vinpocetine

An excellent nootropic is designed to dilate blood vessels and improve microcirculation, which makes it effective. It provides the brain tissues with the necessary nutrients and oxygen.

Moreover, this remedy lowers blood pressure, bringing it back to normal, and also thins the blood.

The drug even has an antioxidant effect.

13. Phenibut

This drug plays an important role in stimulating the brain.

It normalizes blood circulation, improves night sleep, eliminates daytime sleepiness, has an antioxidant property, and also has a beneficial effect on memory and concentration. In addition, tablets help improve the emotional stability of the central nervous system.

The only drawback of this drug is the fact that it cannot be purchased without a prescription.

A drug with antidepressant and anti-anxiety properties strengthens the human nervous system and improves memory. It is well tolerated by both adults and children, so this drug is used more often in pediatrics and for the elderly.

This nootropic is quite effective and does not cause any particular harm to health, if you follow the contraindications and do not ignore the doctor's recommendations.

Among the shortcomings, experts note the fact that in the case of severe disorders of the nervous system, the drug has no effect.

15. Cerebrolysin

A high-quality nootropic helps to bring the brain into activity, returns the “foot emphasis” and makes it possible to accelerate the development of mental activity in children. In addition, it improves speech skills.

The disadvantage is the appearance of convulsions as a result of an incorrect injection.

16. Piracetam

This drug is not in vain included in the list of leaders.

It is prescribed specifically for the treatment of memory problems, intellectual disabilities, as well as psycho-organic syndrome, which entails frequent dizziness.

The main advantage of this remedy is the sensitive functioning of the brain after administration.

In the case of an increase in the dosage indicated in the instructions, a change in the physiological state is possible (from excessive agitation to severe drowsiness and vice versa), which is the main disadvantage.

17. Pantogam

Nootropic gently affects the nervous system and is allowed for use by adults and children.

In the first case, tablets are prescribed, in the second - syrup. It helps the body cope with a decrease in mental performance, as well as schizophrenia.

Side effects when taking it are extremely rare.

18. Cortexin

An excellent drug without side reactions is famous for its low toxicity and the absence of disadvantages, with the exception of high cost.

Tablets effectively fight against circulatory disorders of the brain, epileptic seizures and reduced learning ability.

This nootropic is usually prescribed for children.

19. Picamilon

A drug with sufficiently powerful anti-aggregate, antioxidant and tranquilizing properties helps to increase brain performance in a short time.

It perfectly regulates the mental powers and calms the nerves.

20. Pramiracetam

The list of leaders is completed by a remedy that belongs to the category of racetams.

It has a positive effect on intelligence, concentration and memory. As for side effects, they appear very rarely when taking these pills, moreover, they are poorly expressed.

It also has a great effect on the cognitive capabilities of the brain, which is a considerable advantage.

Remember, self-medication is dangerous, consult a doctor for advice on the use of any medications.

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The nervous system of a newly born person is still immature. It will improve over the years. It is not surprising that caring parents peer intently at their crumbs - but does he have any deviations?

Is your baby restless before bed? Sometimes the chin trembles, arms and legs twitch, does the baby spit up profusely and often, lag behind in development from their peers? Does the little one have a delay in speech development or does he not want to sit down and walk in the average period? All these symptoms can be a sign of both natural immaturity of the nervous system for crumbs, and a serious illness.

When the question arises, as they say, with an edge, parents and pediatricians have no time to wait whether the alarming symptoms will pass over time.

After all, the older the child, the more difficult it is to correct deviations caused by neurological pathologies. In this situation, children are prescribed nootropic drugs. You should not be afraid - according to statistics, they are prescribed to every third baby.

What it is?

Nootropics are neurometabolic stimulants. Simply put, drugs that actively affect the higher mental functions of the brain, improve blood circulation and the functioning of the nervous system, and stimulate metabolic processes in nerve tissues. In the international classification, nootropics do not have a separate group; they are combined with psychostimulants. But this is also not a cause for concern.

Action

Nootropic action is based on several processes. They improve the energy state of nerve cells (neurons), accelerate the processes occurring in the central nervous system, saturate the brain with oxygen, strengthen the membranes of nerve cells, and increase the speed of impulses in the brain. As a result, the metabolic processes in the brain are significantly improved, memory "strengthens", perception "revives". Nootropics have a positive effect on the mechanisms of thinking, increase intellectual abilities. It is for this that nootropics got their second unofficial name - “cognition stimulants”.

Nootropic drugs come in various classifications, in total there are more than 20 types. There are over a hundred titles.

Indications for use

Nootropic drugs for children are prescribed for the following diseases and conditions:

• Lag in the development of the child's psyche,
• speech development delay,
• The consequences of intrauterine suffering of the baby, during which the central nervous system was affected,
• Head injuries (concussion, TBI)
• attention deficit disorder,
• Various forms of mental retardation,

In addition, certain types of nootropic drugs are likely to be prescribed for severe stuttering, sleep disturbance in a child, urination disorders, migraines, and severe dizziness. Nootropics are used to treat hyperkinesias (these are chaotic convulsive random movements of the arms and legs in children), as well as to prevent motion sickness. In addition, nootropic drugs for the treatment of children are used in ophthalmology, toxicology, and traumatology.

Pros and cons

Despite its rather positive effect on the body, controversy and scientific discussions around nootropics do not subside. These drugs are widely used only in Russia and the countries of the former CIS. Probably because they began to be used in our medicine in the middle of the 20th century. European and American doctors, for example, refuse to prescribe nootropics to their little patients.

The reason is that the effectiveness and benefits of nootropics have not yet been scientifically proven. Although everyone agrees that there is no particular harm from them either. And what then is the point of treating everyone and everything with nootropics, if, of course, we are not talking about the list of diseases indicated above? This opinion, in particular, is shared by well-known doctors Roshal and Komarovsky. Some experts even suggest moving nootropic drugs from the category of medicines to the category of dietary supplements.

What drugs can a doctor prescribe?

• The main and very first nootropic in history, the "founding father" of all other drugs in this family, is Piracetam. Most Russians and residents of the countries of the former CIS are also familiar with other synonymous names: Nootropil, Cerebril, Lutsetam, Oykamid, etc.

Piracetam was synthesized more than half a century ago. The drug has a beneficial effect on the brain, stimulates memory, increases the ability to intellectual stress and motivates learning, promotes concentration. Available in capsules, ampoules and tablets. Piracetam is not recommended for children under one year old. In addition, this drug is not suitable for babies with psychomotor agitation.

Among the side effects from taking Piracetam are insomnia, impaired coordination of movements, irritability, confusion.

• Another very popular drug among Russian pediatricians is Pantogam. It is a nootropic anticonvulsant. Available in the form of tablets and syrup. His doctor can prescribe to your baby from the first days of life.

  The drug improves the condition of children with various forms of cerebral palsy, schizophrenia, autism. In addition, Pantogam helps with urinary incontinence, children's nervous tics, hyperactivity syndrome and delayed speech development. Side effects are minimized, to drowsiness and an allergic reaction to any component of Pantogam.

• Picamilon is a nootropic drug that expands the vessels of the brain, an analogue of Piracetam. Among other things, it has a psychostimulating and mild tranquilizing effect. Available in ampoules for intravenous and intramuscular administration and in tablets. Not recommended for children under 3 years old.

  Often, Picamilon is prescribed to overly anxious, emotionally unstable children. In addition, this nootropic is taken to increase endurance in conditions of physical and mental overload, for example, by athletes.

Side effects include headache, nausea, itchy skin. The drug should not be taken by a child with kidney problems.

• Phenibut is a modern nootropic that is often prescribed to children. It stimulates the activity of the nervous system, increases mental performance, improves memory, helps students cope with overload in the learning process. The effect of a tranquilizer helps relieve anxiety, irritability, improve sleep. Available in tablets and powders. This drug is low-toxic, and therefore it is prescribed to children from 2 years old. Side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea.

• Pyritinol is a nootropic agent with a slight sedative effect. Often it is advised to take it in depressive states, vegetative - vascular dystonia, increased fatigue, mental retardation. Suitable for children from 1 year old. It has a fairly large list of side effects from nausea to polymyositis, dyspnea and loss of taste sensations.

• Cinnarizine (synonyms Balcinnarzine, Vertizin, Diziron, Cinnaron, Cyrizin) is a nootropic, the instructions for use of which say that it is not recommended for children under 12 years of age. However, many doctors have long been prescribing this drug to babies up to a year old, and claim its positive effect. However, the effectiveness of the drug has not been proven, but side effects in patients were recorded. With this drug, they are satisfied with serious: violations of the liver and kidneys, pressure drop, headaches. Cinnarizine is available in capsules and tablets.

• Semax is one of the pediatricians' favorite nootropics. It is available in the form of drops in the nose, and therefore it is convenient to use it even for the smallest patients. Semax comes to the rescue in cases where children have a delay in speech development, sleep disturbances, hyperexcitability, capriciousness. Among the side effects are dizziness, irritation of the nasal mucosa.

• The simplest aminoacetic acid Glycine can be an excellent option. It has all the advantages of nootropics, but is devoid of frightening side effects. Glycine is prescribed for babies of any age. The drug regulates the processes of excitation and inhibition. As a result, the child's attention increases, learning significantly improves, night sleep normalizes.

It is almost impossible to list all the drugs of the nootropic family, there are a lot of them, besides, the pharmaceutical industry does not stand still, and almost every year presents something new. It is profitable to look for new formulas in nootropic drugs, because these funds are quite in demand by both adults and children.

• From the "new products" I would like to note the Japanese nootropic Gammalon. The cost of this drug exceeds the cost of its ancestor Piracetam by more than 100 times. A package of a drug from the country of the Rising Sun costs about 2,500 rubles per package (100 tablets).

According to reviews on the Internet, it helps even children with severe forms of autism and cerebral palsy, alleviates their condition. But a number of physicians have doubts about Gammalon. The fact is that even a superficial analysis of the instructions for use for observant patients can suggest that the composition of the Japanese “miracle drug” contains a single amino acid - gamma-aminobutyric.

A nootropic with the same exact composition is Aminalon. Only it costs only 99 rubles. A practical approach to the issue suggests that the Japanese Gammalon is just a successful marketing move, especially since its effectiveness and benefits, like those of other nootropic drugs, have not yet been scientifically proven.

Conclusion about diagnostics in Russia

In Russia, a peculiar practice of diagnostics has developed. Doctors in the clinic, for the sake of "reinsurance", can make a neurological or even psychiatric diagnosis for any child with increased excitability, very mobile or anxious. By and large, there would be a person, but there would be a diagnosis.

Doctors cannot be blamed for this. They are ordered by the Ministry of Health. After all, missing the beginning of the disease is even worse. Parents begin to treat the baby with nootropic drugs prescribed by a cautious doctor, not really knowing whether they are harmful. With a real-life disease, nootropics are effective, but in the case of medical "reinsurance", the drug will bring absolutely nothing to a healthy child, except for possible "side effects".

Doctors do not have precise and uniform criteria for assessing the behavior of young children. Therefore, it is quite difficult to draw a line between an ordinary restless child and a child with a neurological disease.

Despite all the methods of diagnosis, the solution to the dilemma "Norm or pathology" falls on the shoulders of the doctor and ultimately will be determined only by him. And this is fertile ground for medical errors and those same reinsurance "just in case."

The main principle of any doctor is “Do no harm”, and testing drugs on a child in search of an opportunity to finally get a list of drugs with proven effectiveness is at least short-sighted and unethical. Let laboratory animals fill up the statistics better.

For more information about nootropics, see the following video.