Do you feel like you have lost your edge? Does your concentration drop-off right when you need it the most? Smart drugs and nootropics may provide an added boost to help you work longer and with better concentration than ever before. Here are some of the top smart drugs being used worldwide and what you can expect from their use.
Caffeine – You are probably already using the most common smart drug without even knowing it. Coffee, tea, energy drinks, and caffeine packed soda really do work. Caffeine blocks your adenosine receptors and keeps you from feeling tired. Caffeine taken in small to moderate doses can increase your attention and alleviate fatigue. Caffeine is a naturally occurring smart drug so one of the safest to use.
Adderall – This ADHD medication has become one of the most commonly commented on mind boosting drugs on the market. The blend of amphetamines in this prescription drug boost attention and give the body a boost of focused energy. Many users report the importance of being “on task” before taking the medication because once it enters your system you will stick to the task at hand. Adderall can stay in your system for up to 12 hours. Adderall can have severe side effects including causing heart attacks. It should only be used as prescribed.
Ritalin – This is another ADHD medication which has been found to increase concentration and alleviate fatigue. Unlike Adderall, Ritalin contains no amphetamines. It increases your dopamine and noradrenaline levels to provide a boost to your system. It is a much safer prescription medication than Adderall but does have side effects. The side effects include dizziness, loss of appetite, and headaches. When taken in excessive amounts, it can cause hallucinations, psychosis, high blood pressure, and even irregular heartbeats.
Provigil (Modafinil) – Provigil is another prescription medication which can enhance brain performance. It is normally prescribed for people suffering from narcolepsy. It is considered to be non-addictive, but some people who have used high dosages report withdrawal symptoms and a feeling of dependency.
Noopept – This over-the-counter supplement is a natural nootropic which boosts brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which helps with healthy brain cell growth and appears to stimulate cognitive ability. It acts quickly, with most people feeling a response within a few minutes. There has been limited animal testing done with this synthetic drug, but the results have been promising. At this time, there have been no conclusive human studies done with Noopept.
Nicotine – Cigarette smokers and tobacco users were not joking when they talked about getting a boost from their tobacco breaks. Nicotine does stimulate the body and can temporarily boost cognitive ability. The problem with nicotine has traditionally been the delivery methods which caused great risks of cancer. Newer forms of using nicotine are safer, but nicotine still has its hidden dangers. Nicotine is addictive and in high doses can cause irregular heartbeats and even death.
Gingko Biloba – While all of our preceding options have risks, Gingko Biloba poses virtually no risks. It is a natural supplement which may help in brain health and cognitive ability. Unlike previous choices, it does not provide instant gratification. This is a supplement which must be taken daily over the course of weeks to get the benefits.
Panax Ginseng – Another natural supplement which shows promise as a brain booster is Panax Ginseng. People report being able to stay on task more easily and increased math ability when using this supplement. Similar to Gingko Biloba, you must take Panax Ginseng regularly and over a period of time to see the results. It may take up to six weeks to reach maximum effectiveness.
Creatine – This amino acid is highly popular among bodybuilders and strength athletes. They noticed as they used creatine to increase their body’s muscle building ability, they also had an improvement in short-term memory and brain responsiveness. Creatine binds with phosphate to produce a brain energizing molecule.
The most powerful smart drugs are the prescription medications Adderall, Modafinil, and Ritalin, but the dangers inherent in their use may outweigh their potential benefits. Keep in mind, all of the prescription choices are difficult to obtain. It is easier to start your journey in using smart drugs by using the listed supplements and caffeine, before venturing into uncharted waters.