Piracetam was the first class of nootropic pills. It was primarily discovered in 1964, as a cognitive enhancer, by UCB, a Belgian pharm company. The research and development phase of the product was monitored by Dr Corneliu E. Giurgea the one, who coined smart drugs as nootropic. Piracetam is supposed to act as a memory enhancer it does so by increasing flow of oxygen and slowing the aging process of the brain. This, as a result decreases the risk of mental disorders. Piracetam is a pertinent product of the UCB and is sold around the world.

Purpose of Piracetam

Piracetam is sold around the world but its prime market is Europe. It is traded in both England and America. It can be purchased without the need of any prescriptions. It has even been considered as a dietary supplement in the American market. Its contributive aspects to increase brain capacity have made it a widely used substance for students. Academics usually purchase the drug to improve memory capacity. This is a short-term purpose of the drug. Piracetam does also tackle other aspects of health. These are:

• Coagulation
• Clotting
• Deep vein Thrombosis
• Vasospastic disorder

These are some of its explored usages. There are other derived advantages of the medicine/dietary supplement but these are the long-term ones. Furthermore, its complementary benefits have made piracetam a possible substitute for Warfarin. Warfarin is a drug used to treat chronic deep vein thrombosis. Piracetam is a nootropill with multi-dimensions and does improve well being.

Mechanism of Piracetam

The precise mechanism of piracetam is uncertain. The only known aspects of its functioning with the brain are that it increases both oxygen and blood flow across parts of the brain. This execution of actions does actutually improve the transmission of information via better neurotransmitter and the corpus collosum. It does simultaneously improve memory processing capabilities. This is a result derived from affecting various receptors within the brain that are geared towards assimilating and processing information. Piracetam does, actually make the brain more active as receptors are reverted to optimum. Piracetam gives boost to the brain faculties to augment its capacity.

Effects derived from Piracetam

Piracetam, apart from being tailored as a cognitive enhancer, does improve other aspects of health. It is reckoned to treat dyslexic children. This is improved mainly by the enhancement of cognitive communication sense in the brain. The drug has also appeared to be effective in treating post-stroke, epilepsy and other related physical conditions.

Piracetam Dosage

The nootropic pills for piracetam are provided in 800 mg capsules. Piracetam does also come in powder form. The powder form is expected to be as effective as the pills. There is no general guidance for the recommended intake. The usual expected intake of the drug varies from 1.5 to 9.5 grams daily which is equivalent to 2 to 12 pills a day. The methodology of its intake can be guided by a physician or health stores. The volume/strength will, however, have an effect upon the rapidity of its effectiveness.

Precautionary elements before consuming Piracetam

The drug might be inappropriate for people suffering from other health problems. For instance people who experience acute heamorrage or has undergone major surgery should avoid consuming priacetam. The extent of the side-effects might not be acute but considered harmful. Furthermore, people experiencing renal impairment should also consult a doctor before the initiation of the drug. As most of these health conditions are experienced by elder patients. They should consider health check and consultation, as an important option before consuming the drug. The dosage of piracetam must be regulated in accordance to personal conditions.

Piracetam Side Effects

There are only a few know side-effects of piracetam. These are all very mild and considered as insignificant harms to the detriment of personal health. The various clinical trials performed over months have apparently discovered no danger of the drug. It is rather a safe panacea for human beings.

The customer panel has indeed highlighted a particular effect of piracetam. The intake of the drug does slightly diminish tolerance to alcohol. This has been based on reports by users. Other issues such as headache due to high dosage can be alleviated by the use of other medications if ever encountered. The other general adverse effects of nootropic medication can be insomnia, nervousness and anxiety. These adverse effects are similar to those issues related to high caffeine intake.

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Aniracetam is a medicine which is also commonly branded as Sarpul and Draganon. Aniracetam is a cognitive enhancer, a nootropic drug which is considered to be at least 4 times more effective than Piracetam. The medication has been tested extensively in the past on various patients. The patients have suffered from Alzheimer and other mental troubles. Aniracetam has been a convenient drug to treat the issues. Aniracetam is a drug prescribed in Europe whereas in America it is considered as a dietary supplement.

Aniracetam intends to improve our immune system and acts as a protective defense against infections. This is done by augmenting the level of serotonin and dopamine in a part of the brain called the prefrontal cortex. The result is that it promotes well being.

Purpose of Aniracetam

Aniracetam has dimensions of benefits. Its underlining positive contribution to mental improvement is initiated as the medication improves communication in the human brain. This sensible attribute increases speed and capacity of the mind.

The various tests that have been carried out have proven aniracetam to be one of the most effective smart drugs available on the market. Smart drugs or nootropic is a class of drug which acts as cognitive enhancers. They do act on the mind of people and as consequence of its actions, it alleviates memory disparity, brain aging and enhances concentration.

Mechanism of Aniracetam

Aniracetam is a drug considered to have few loopholes. It is a better version of piracetam, as it is far more potent in alleviating concentration problems with a lesser dosage. It is purported to augment recalling capacity and develop creativity. The key behind its powerful mechanism is that it improves communication within the brain. This is done through the corpus callosum which is a specific area of the brain that joins the two hemispheres which are the left and right part of the brain. The interconnection of these two segments does give the human an intrinsic capacity to think. The side of the brain focusing on logic and the other on creativity are joined together and effectively greater mental abilities are emerged as a result.

The intriguing improvement on memory capacity as a result has its subsidiary benefits. It helps to alleviate or treat Alzheimer to a certain extent depending on the nature of the disease. The type and stage of the disease will also determine the effectiveness of the drug.

Dosage of Aniracetam

The drug is sold in mainly 750mg pills. It is recommended to take an approximate of 2 per day. This gives a total dosage of 1500mg per day. The drug should not interact with other drugs but it might interact with other brain nutrition. It is thus best to stick to a particular product rather than taking various nootropic products.

Side effects of Aniracetam

One of the virtues of the consumption of aniracetam is that it has few side-effects. It is considered as non-toxic and as an outcome. There are practically no known contradiction associated with the drug. However, there might be some, which has not yet been identified by research and users. It is indeed certain that cross-reaction of similar drugs is an issue. The consumption of different smart drugs will endanger the health condition of the consumer. The extent of the harm will depend upon the mixture of the two products. It is thus, important to seek specialized advice from a physician if the user is under any other special treatments.

General Information about Aniracetam

The advantages derived from consuming nootropic products such as aniracetam are vivid. Their positive aspects to the mind are limitless but the smart drugs are indeed not perfect. Aniracetam does eventually not cope with all issues related to the aging process. This might be quite normal but yet an aspect which can be improved. Aniracetam has, however, been tested extensively on both animals and humans and the results have been proven affirmative. There is thus low risk of side-effect and adverse consequences.

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Picamilon is classed as a nootropic drug. It is thus geared towards treating several brain disorders such as enhancing vigilance, long term memory, brain trauma, attention and learning issues. Nootropic drugs focuses on progressing the cognitive abilities of the user. Picamilon is considered to be a preferred drug in the class, and it was first introduced in 1986. Moreover, picamilon is mainly made up of two substances which are Niacin (nicotinic acid) and gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA).

The pharmacological features of the combination of ingredients in picamilon have made it highly popular amidst clinicians. Picamilon is most widely used in respect to its rapid ability to re-establish both physical and mental health. It helps employees who have been exhausted to re-focus on their work. Disturbances developed due to overstress and pressure at the work place is treated with this nootropic drug. Picamilon is considered to be highly effective in rectifying different types of cerebrovascular diseases (related to blood supply in brain). Its’ contribution exceeds that of other drugs such as piracetam, xanthinol and cinnarizine. This has promoted picamilon highly, both in sales and popularity among physicians and clinicians.

Effects and dosage of Picamilon

Picamilon will interact and act promptly in the body. The effects can be noticed within the hour. The drug will be most noticeably sustained for the first 4 to 6 hours. The normally assigned dose of picamilon is 50mg which should be consumed at respected intervals, three times a day. This volume will generate a mood stabilizing effect. A higher dose of 100mg, three times a day, will provide a boost in energy and endurance. The consumption of picamilon produces a cumulative effect. The improvement to health will become transparent after some weeks of usages. Picamilon has limited side-effects with a tremendously low level of toxicity.

Mechanism of Picamilon

Picamilon mechanism is common to other nootropic drugs. It augments the supply of blood while simultaneously enhancing the state of the cognitive functioning of the brain. It does besides improve the microcirculation (Blood flow in the smallest part of the body) and hemodynamics (the force of blood circulation) within various regions in the body. Picamilon does also possess all the prerequisite antioxidant and anti-hypoxic features of other nootropic drugs. These attributes are absolutely sustained in our tissues for an extensive period of time. Moreover, picamilon does not cause sleepiness and myorelacation to the body. It rather simply alleviates the side-effect of burnout-consequences developed from stress that affects our central nervous system.

Uses of Picamilon

Picamilon has proven to be effective in treating several disorders and health problems. The cure varies across cerebrovascular diseases and neurotic disorders. The most direct functions of picamilon have been listed below:

• Ischemic Disturbance
• Migraine (Treats simple migraine)
• Cerebral blood circulation
• Vegetative dystonia
• Discirculatory encephalopathy
• Neurotic level
• Anxiety
• Fear
• Emotional instability
• It can also treat alcoholic intoxication

The list of indication of picamilon is expanding rapidly. Clinical studies carried out have found that picamilon have an abundance of additional benefits. The broadening applications of the medicine have proven it to be a success in treating more than the above mentioned health conditions. It does apparently treat health problems such as retina, urination for adults and children, primary open glaucoma and even optic nerves.

General information about Picamilon

Picamilon has safely been used for over 10 years with massive clinical research and trials. Picamilon can be consumed as a medicine and equally as a supplement. It is expected that picamilon alleviates various health concerns not limited to those mention. The capacity of the medicine is pertinent to remain healthy individuals. However, it should be consumed singularly without any other type of related medicine. There is a risk of cross-reaction amidst medicine. It would be most appropriate to consult a doctor for professional advice if the case arises. The physician will be able to assign a proper dose for a specific cure. The strength of the dosage will influence the effectiveness of the therapy, that picamilon will be promoting.

The highest effectiveness of the medicine is achieved once consumed on an empty stomach. It gives the medicine purer power and as a result it generates better results. The results of consuming picamilon are cumulative, thus the highest yield will be seen after some weeks of continuous intake of picamilon.

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A popular and widespread nootropic agent, Aniracetam is a popular substance amongst those seeking to increase their cognitive powers and memory. It is part of the same drug family as Piracetam, another popular nootropic, but is regarded as being even more powerful.

An Ampakine, (a drug which acts on neurotransmitters in the brain), Aniracetam has also shown signs of being an effective anti anxiety medication. Aniracetam has also proven to be an effective treatment for those suffering from attention or memory disorders arising from degenerative diseases or vascular conditions.

How To Take Aniracetam

Normally sold in pill or powder form, Aniracetam is usually taken in two dosages which total 1,500 milligrams. Some people taking Aniracetam may experience anxiety, restlessness, agitation or insomnia. In these cases, it is advisable to either take the entire dose in the morning, or to take the second dose in the early afternoon.

Aniracetam begins to take effect after 60 days, and it reaches maximum efficacy at four months.

Side Effects of Aniracetam

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, Aniracetam is not advised. Aside from pregnant or breastfeeding women, most people should be suitable candidates for Aniracetam. One of the major benefits of Aniracetam is its low toxicity and the fact that it normally causes very few side effects.

That being said, a few individuals may experience hypersensitivity to Aniracetam, and any symptoms which fall outside mild anxiety, restlessness, nausea and headaches should be reported to a doctor immediately.

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Part of the Nootropics family, and derived from a substance called GABA, Piracetam has become one of the most famous drugs of this ilk for a very simple reason. It has been shown in a very positive light when discussing the successful treatment of a number of ailments humans suffer, especially those that concern the brain and nervous system.

Coming with virtually no side effects, the drug has been shown to have a positive effect on ailments and illnesses such as Alzheimer’s, heart disease and Cerebral Palsy.

Piracetam acts on the central nervous system. It acts by protecting the cerebral cortex, and preventing a deficiency of oxygen in the brain. The cerebral cortex is responsible for many things when it comes to the operations of the human body, but primarily it plays a role in perception and memory.

Piracetam is available in liquid or tablet form, this makes it one of the more versatile Nootropics out there. People who have taken the substance attest to the benefit in having the option of taking the drug either as a liquid or a tablet.

There are a number of issues that need to be considered before one takes Piracetam. The issues are outlined below:

• You must let your doctor know if you intend to take this substance and you are pregnant. If you are trying for a baby, you must again let your doctor know.
• If you suffer from problems of any kind as regards the liver or kidneys, then you must make your doctor aware of this.
• If you have had an allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicine, then let your doctor know.
• It is especially vital that you inform your doctor you are taking any other medication or herbal supplement. This is due to the fact that there may be reactions with other drugs and substances. Your doctor can advise on this matter.

When you are taking Piracetam, there are a number of things you should be aware of. And remember; always tell your doctor if you have any concerns about any drug you are taking. If your doctor prescribes Piracetam for you, always ensure that you take the drug in exactly the same way the doctor has advised you to.

In addition, you must always read the manufacturer’s information leaflet that comes with the drug. If you can do this before you begin to take the substance, even better.

If you take the solution in the liquid form, you will find that it has quite a bitter taste. Many users find that drinking a glass of fruit juice or water after taking the liquid helps.

Other points to consider:

• Do not stop taking Piracetam suddenly. This can cause problems for you and your body. As with all drugs, let your doctor know if you intend to stop taking the drug. He or she will advise on a suitable stopping schedule.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose of Piracetam. If you or anyone you suspect takes more than the recommended dose, consult with a hospital immediately. And take the bottle or container with you, even if it is empty.
• Even if their condition appears to be similar to yours, or they express the wish to take the drug, never ever give Piracetam to anyone else.
• Keep the container the drug comes in out of the reach of children. Piracetam can make people drowsy, and will have a marked effect on children.
• If you have some Piracetam that is out of date, get rid of it at the earliest opportunity.

Some practical considerations as regards Piracetam then. If you have any doubt about taking the drug or the effect it has on you, consult a physician.

Nootropic Supplements, Nootropics, Smart Drugs, Smart Pills

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However, time and effort when investigating Nootropics does pay off. Nootropics are a very positive way of treating cognitive problems, and generally improving your quality of life. In order for you to get the most out them, though, you really need to know what your goals are concerning Nootropics. In other words, you need to know what you want to achieve with them.

Academic Enhancement

Firstly, are you a student who wants to improve their performance in academic matters? If you need a safe way to increase that performance in college or school, then Nootropics are a definite option for you. If this is something you want to pursue, then the best option for you, initially at least, is Piracetam. This blockbuster substance has helped millions of students improve their performance academically, and has also had a very positive effect on grades.

Piracetam is one of the oldest Nootropic substances available, dating back to the 1960s. It is trusted by many people, and students especially extol its virtues.

There is another substance called Choline that students use regularly too. This is recommended for use with Piracetam because it is very effective at curing the headaches that Piracetam use can sometimes bring.

Mental Health

Another use for Nootropics involves mental health. Are you a person who suffers from depression? This is a problem for many people, and if left unchecked can quite easily damage a life for good. There are many Nootropic substances available that can help with moods and depression in general. These substances safely manage the symptoms of depression. Unlike the more traditional depression drugs that are available on the market, these substances have few side effects, and are very safe to use. Lemon balm and Niacin are popular Nootropic substances in this area.

Lemon balm is a very natural substance that has been shown to help alleviate the symptoms of stress and depression. There are no known side effects, however there have been some extremely rare allergic reactions reported.

It is most often consumed as a tea, with the leaves being crushed before pouring boiling water over them. As well as the effect on the mental health of the user, lemon balm is also said to have anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties.

Niacin is also known as vitamin B3. It has been proven to have a massive impact on stress and depression symptoms. It is normally available at many pharmacies and health food stores. In addition, it has also been shown to positively affect the levels of cholesterol in the user’s body.

The effect of Niacin on depression and anxiety can only be achieved if larger doses than normal are taken. It is for this reason that Niacin is best taken as a dietary supplement.

Stress and Anxiety

As regards social anxiety, many Nootropics have been shown to help in his area too. This kind of anxiety includes that which is felt when public speaking, for example. Other situations include parties or other social events where one is expected to socialise with strangers, or people you do not always talk to.

Ageing

Another area in which Nootropic s are finding particular success is that of ageing. Many of the effects of ageing, such as cognitive difficulties and memory issues, can be eased with the use of Nootropics. Many Nootropics are now being recommended by doctors who want to help their patients manage the strains of ageing.

Piracetam, Choline and Hydergine in particular have been shown to have some positive effect on people who are undergoing the ageing process. These are believed to fight the general degradation of the brain that occurs as people age. They are widely available and Piracetam in particular has been around since the 1960s.

As with any medical supplement or drug, make sure you discuss the use of Nootropics with your doctor before you start a course.

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Arguably the most famous of all the nootropics, Piracetam is a potent nootropic drug which enhances cognitive abilities and memory recall. In addition to its common use as a cognitive enhancer it is also used in stroke recovery, in the treatment of Alzheimer’s and also in the treatment of Down Syndrome and Dyslexia.

Piracetam was synthesised in 1964 by Belgian pharmaceutical company UCB. The lead scientist on the team was a man called Dr Corneliu E Giurgea who coined the famous phrase ‘nootropic’. Today Piracetam is sold under various brand names including Nootropil, Qropi, Myocalm and Dinagen.

Effects of Piracetam

The effects of Piracetam include:

• Enhanced cognitive abilities
• Enhanced memory recall
• Slowed brain aging

How Piracetam Works

Piracetam is thought to work in several different ways. Mechanisms of action include:

• Increased brain blood flow
• Increased oxygen usage by the brain
• Improved function of neurotransmitters, specifically acetylcholine
• Increased synthesis of cytochrome b5
• Increased mitochondrial permeability
• May effect NDMA glutamate receptors

Whilst many of its mechanisms of action are indecipherable to the average layperson, it is certain that Piracteam has a widespread effect on the human brain and is capable of optimizing many functions associated with cognition and memory.

Is Piracetam Safe For Children?

Piracetam has very lox toxicity, which makes it safe for both adults and children. It is quite often prescribed to children who suffer from dyslexia. Children with dyslexia are aided by its effects which include optimization of ion channels and carriers which result in greater cross hemisphere communication.

Some sources claim that Piracetam may cause liver troubles in children under the age of 16. Parents should therefore consult with their medical practitioner before treating their children with this drug.

How Is Piracetam Taken?

Piracetam is available in tablet, capsule and powdered form.

Piracetam Dosage

The average reccommended dosage of Piracetam for adults is between 1.6 to 9.6 grams daily. Children’s dosages should be decided upon in conjunction with a medical professional.

Piracetam Side Effects

Piracetam is generally regarded to be a safe drug with few side effects. However some people may experience mild side effects when taking Piracetam. These side effects can include:

• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Irritableness
• Headaches
• Tremors

Is Piracetam An Effective Drug For Treating Schitzophrenia?

Piracetam will have the same cognitive enhancing effects on schitzophrenics as those who do not suffer from scitzophrenia, however it has not been shown to affect the schtizophrenic condition itself.

Is Piracetam An Effective Drug For Treating Alzheimer’s?

Yes, Piracetam has been shown to improve cognition in people who are afflicted with Alzheimer’s, as well as those suffering other forms of senile dementia.

Is Piracetam An Effective Drug For Treating Alcoholism?

Piracetam has been shown to aid in the treatment of alcoholim. It reduces levels of lipofuscin (a yellow ‘wear and tear’ pigment’ often found in the brain and other organs of elderly people or alcoholics), which is a common sign of alcoholism.

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Nootropics, also known as cognitive enhancers, are agents which improve the function of the human mind. Generally speaking, cognitive enhancers work by increasing blood flow and oxygenation in the brain, by increasing neurotransmitter levels inside the brain, by stimulating the growth of nerves inside the brain or shielding the brain from the effects of aging.

There are many types of cognitive enhancer, though all of them fall into one of the three main categories:

• Drugs
• Nutrients
• Herbs

Drugs

Racetams

Discovered in the early 1960′s, Racetams are the family of drugs for which the term ‘nootropic’ was originally coined. Piracetam is the most well known of the racetams and is a commonly used nootropic agent to this day. An interesting fact about racetams is that their mechanism of action remains unknown to this day. Modern theories suggest that racetams have may an effect upon neurotransmitter production, boosting levels of neurotransmitters in the brain and therefore the cognitive abilities of the subject.

Piracetam is commonly used to treat degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, as well as genetic conditions such as Down Syndrome and Dyslexia.

Racetams are generally regarded as being ‘pharmacologically safe’ drugs, which is why their use is popular amongst children, adults and the elderly.

Stimulants

There are many stimulant drugs which can be classified as cognitive enhancers. Caffeine is perhaps the most widespread of these stimulant drugs. Other well known stimulants include Amphetamine, Cocaine and Methamphetamine. These are all controlled substances not legally available to the public, however amphetamines have been used by the military to promote wakefulness in pilots and the use of amphetamines by college students is far from unheard of.

Amphetamines increase levels of seratonin and dopamine in the brain. This generally results in increased feelings of well being and alertness at low doses, though increased doses can cause anxiety, heart palpitations and in very high doses, even death.

Dopaminergics

Dopaminergics affect the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine is responsible for, or has an effect on alertness, attention and anti oxidation. Commonly used dopaminergics include cocaine and amphetamine. Other dopaminergics include:

• Amineptine – Stabilizes and improves levels of dopamine
• Selegiline – Stimulates production of dopamine
• Phenylalanine – Raises levels of dopamine
• Tyrosine – Raises levels of dopamine

Cholinergics

Cholinergics affect the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which facilitates memory functions. Commonly used cholinergics include:

• Vitamin B5
• Rosemary
• Sage
• Nicotine

It may be surprising to see nicotine, a major ingredient in cigarettes listed as being a memory enhancement drug. It should be noted that the addictive nature of nicotine, along with the carcinogenic properties of cigarettes in general outweigh any benefits that may be obtained by using cigarettes as a nootropic device.

Rosemary, Sage and Vitamin B5 are all much safer cholinergics which have the potential to naturally boost memory function.

Nutrients

There are various types of nutrients which are said to have nootropic effects. In particular, foods rich in Omega 3 fatty acids are regarded as being particularly effective. Sources of Omega 3 include fish and hemp (in countries where hemp is not banned for its association with marijuana). Omega 3 fatty acids are proven to have a beneficial effect on brain function and any person seeking to boost their brain power should first consider their diet. A diet poor in Omega 3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients is detrimental to brain function.

Herbs

Herbal nootropics are popular as they are less regulated than drug based nootropics and yet can be very effective.

Tea

Arguably the most popular beverage in the history of mankind. Tea has both nootropic and anti oxidant effects which help shield the brain from the effects of aging. Tea leaves contain over 700 different chemicals, many of which are vitamins, amino acids and flavanoids. Tea lowers blood pressure, prevents dental cavities, prevents heart disease and acts as a germicide. It is widely regarded as having beneficial effects on brain function, promoting alertness and wakefulness in a gentle fashion.

Tea has a wide range of beneficial effects on human health, which include:

• Anti cancer activity
• Increased metabolism
• Potential anti diabetes activity
• Alertness booster
• Immune system booster
• Lower stress hormones

Studies have shown that elderly Japanese who imbibed two or more cups of tea per day had a 50% less chance of developing cognitive impairment when compared to those who did not drink tea. Drinking tea is therefore an excellent long term strategy for preserving cognitive function.

Caffiene

Competing with tea in the popular beverage stakes caffeine as found in the Coffee plant is well known for its mild stimulant effects. Technically it is a psychoactive stimulant drug. In nature its effect is to paralyze and kill insects which try to feed on plants. In small doses caffeine does not kill humans (though it is possible to overdose on caffeine to mortal effect.)

Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system and acts as an effective solution to drowsiness. When taken in moderation its effects last from three to four hours. During those three to four hours a person will feel more alert and have more energy. Caffeine relaxes the anal sphincter, and therefore can cause problems for those who experience incontinence of the fecal kind.

Caffeine interacts positively with pain medications, making them more effective and quicker in their task. Studies have shown that the addition of caffeine can make pain relievers up to 40% more effective at relieving pain cause by headaches.

Caffeine is addictive, the symptoms of withdrawal commonly being headaches, moodiness and even nausea. Regular caffeine users invariably develop a tolerance to caffeine which means they will require ever larger doses of the drug to have a positive effect.

Overdoses of caffeine can result in tremors, anxiety attacks, obsessive compulsive symptoms and can even mimic serious mental diseases such as bipolar disorder, or in extreme cases, schizophrenia.

As with all things, caffeine is best taken in moderation.

Ginseng

A perennial native of Asia. It reportedly acts an adaptogen, a chemical which improves the body’s response to stress. It also possesses anti carcinogenic and antioxidant properties. Ginseng can cause insomnia, nausea and euphoria amongst other, usually mild, side effects. Ginseng can interact with other medications however, so if one is taking any form of medication, one should consult with one’s doctor before taking Ginseng supplements. Ginseng as is found in beverages is usually safe as it is present in such small amounts that no effect is to be had on the body.

St John’s Wort

A perennial plant often used to treat depression, St John’s Wort has decided cognitive enhancement effects. It is effective in both adults and children and may even be effective in treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

It is possible to overdose on St John’s Wort and cause Seratonin Syndrome, which is outlined in the section ‘Dangers of Nootropics’.

Other herbal nootropic substances include:

• Lemon Balm
• Grape Seed Extract
• Passion Flower
• Kava Kava

Dangers of Nootropics

Nootropic agents range from relatively ‘safe’ drugs such as caffeine and tea, to dangerous drugs such as amphetamines. Some agents sold as cognitive enhancers, (especially those designated as being herbal supplements or experimental nutrients) are not regulated by any bodies such as the FDA and can therefore have harmful effects in the long or short term.

Dangerous side effects of unregulated nootropic use can include:

• Organ failure (particularly kidneys and liver)
• Heart failure
• Seratonin Syndrome – a potentially life threatening reaction which can involve mental confusion, muscle tremors, shivering, nausea, diarrhea, headaches, agitation and falling into a coma.

Seratonin syndrome can be caused by a wide variety of agents including:

• Antidepressants
• Opiods
• Psychidelics (LSD, MDMA, MDA)
• Herbs (St John’s Wort, Nutmeg)

It is therefore highly recommended that any nootropic agent be selected with great care.

Nootropics

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With a wide range of nootropics available on the market and many of them posing a severe risk to human health, it can be difficult for a beginner to identify a suitable nootropic agent. This article is intended to outline the potential dangers of nootropic agents and to provide a starting point for those who wish to safely boost their memory function and cognitive abilities.

Nootropic Risks

Dangers of unregulated nootropics include:

Seratonin Syndrome

A condition resulting from reaction to or overdose of certain psychoactive drugs. Seratonin syndrome affects cognitive abilities, involves potentially severe physical symptoms and can even result in death.

Physical Effects of Seratonin Syndrome:

• High blood pressure
• Increased heart rate
• Tremors
• Twitching
• Hypothermia
• Death

Mental Effects of Seratonin Syndrome:

• Mental confusion
• Hallucinations
• Delirium
• Coma

Other possible reactions to various chemical and natural nootropic agents include organ failure, psychosis and of course, death.

Are ‘Natural’ Nootropics Safer?

When choosing a suitable nootropic, be aware that ‘natural’ or ‘herbal’ nootropics may not always be safer than chemical drugs. Some unapproved nootropic agents are even marketed as being ‘nutritional supplements’ in an attempt to avoid regulation. Be sure to research any nootropic agent carefully prior to starting treatment. It is also wise to consult with your GP, especially if you suffer from any pre-existing medical conditions.

Safe Nootropics

As illustrated above, the potential for disaster when using nootropics is very real, so it pays to be safe when it comes to selecting a nootropic. The following nootropic agents have all been approved as safe by regulatory bodies such as the FDA. Please note that this is not intended to be an exhaustive list, rather a starting point for those seeking safe, proven substances to improve their cognitive abilities.

Piracetam

A common and effective nootropic, Piracetam is used to treat Alzheimer’s and Downs Syndrome. Though there are potential side effects, and Piracetam is not suitable for people with kidney failure, liver impairment and cerebral haemorrage, Piracetam is generally regarded as being safe.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a psychotropic nootropic agent which is used around the globe to increase alertness and ward off drowsiness. Caffeine is addictive, and if ingested in extremely large quantities can be deadly, however reasonable use is considered to be safe. Users should be aware that regular use will result in a mild addiction which can be responsible for withdrawal symptoms such as headaches and nausea if the regular caffeine dose is missed.

Vitamin B5

An essential nutrient, Vitamin 5 (also known as pantothenic acid) is considered to have nootropic effects. These nootropic effects arise from its role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters which facilitate cognitive functions.

If Vitamin B5 is not present in required amounts, a person may experience impaired cognitive abilities, not to mention unpleasant physical symptoms. Vitamin B5 is essential for good health, both mental and physical. It can be found in broccoli, avocado and meat. It is also available as a supplement.

Vitamin B5 has no known toxicity level and is therefore regarded as being an extremely safe nootropic agent.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Found in fish, Omega 3 fatty acids are another essential nutrient. Omega 3 fatty acids have been proven to boost cognitive functions and memory recall. In reasonable amounts, Omega 3 fatty acids pose no risk to human health, though in large amounts they can increase cholesterol, reduce glycemic control in diabetics and, if taken in very large doses, can lead to hemorrhagic strokes.

Green Tea

It may surprise you to learn that the popular beverage, tea, is actually something of a miracle drink. Studies have shown that elderly adults who drink two cups of tea per day are 50% less likely to experience degeneration of their cognitive abilities when compared to similarly elderly people who do not drink tea. Tea is a source of anti oxidants, which have the ability to lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. It also contains a plethora of other beneficial chemicals which promote health on all levels.

Those wishing to slow mental aging would do well to drink tea as part of their regular cognitive health regimen.

Herbal Nootropics, Nootropics

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