Understanding Nootropics: Beyond the Buzzwords

What are Nootropics? If you have never heard the term nootropics before, you may be familiar with the synonymous label “smart drugs.” The funky name, nootropics, is derived from two Greek words, nӧos (= think) and tropein (= guided). But essentially, nootropics are substances that are supposed to improve brain health, memory, and learning.

We have probably wanted to feel a bit sharper at some point. Nootropics are supposed to help boost our cognitive function.

Types of Nootropics: Natural and Synthetic Options

Nootropics are proposed to enhance brain health and function in various ways. While they do not directly prompt nerve cells to release neurotransmitters, nootropics can indirectly improve brain function by enhancing the delivery of nutrients (oxygen, glucose) to brain cells, reducing the buildup of free radicals, and improving blood flow to the brain. Nootropics typically must be taken for several weeks to exert a measurable effect.

Many substances can be classified as nootropic. Some nootropic substances are naturally occurring, including plant-derived substances, such as Panax ginseng and ginkgo biloba or egg yolk-derived lecithin. Synthetically derived nootropics, such as alpha-glyceryl phosphorylcholine (Alpha-GPC), are also available, which present the advantage of greater pharmaceutical purity and potentially greater effect at lower doses but also show the disadvantage of greater potential for overdose. In general, nootropics are generally well-tolerated, with stomach upset being the most reported undesirable side effect.

The big question – do Nootropics work?

It depends on the nootropics. As so many different substances are classified as nootropics, it stands to reason that some would have good evidence for their effectiveness while others do not. For example, the plant extracts ginko biloba, gotu kola, and Panax ginseng lack good research supporting their effectiveness (Roe)

In contrast, there are some positive findings for other nootropics. The plant extracts lemon balm, sage, and spearmint, which show research benefits. Choline supplementation has been suggested as a treatment for early dementia. Egg-yolk-derived choline has been found to improve verbal memory after 12 weeks. Dietary choline and Alpha-GPC intake are related to better cognitive function in middle-aged and older men. Supplementation with Alpha-GPC has even been found to enhance cognitive performance in healthy young men. While some studies find measurable benefits to nootropic supplementation, the effects are generally mild, and good studies of nootropic effects in humans are complicated by potential interactions with other nutrients that can impact brain function (e.g., fish oils and creatine).

Choosing the Right Nootropic: Personalized Recommendations

Are nootropics right for you? It depends on who you are and what you want. If you are looking for a boost to help you stay sharp during a period of intense work or academic studies, then nootropics might be helpful. The biggest population of nootropic users are middle-aged and older customers concerned with age-related losses in cognitive function. A substantial concern in this group is the risk of polypharmacy-related drug interactions, as most of us collect several prescriptions for various ailments as we age. One specific nootropic-related drug interaction of note is the potential for Alpha-GPC supplements to block the effectiveness of the medication scopolamine. 

Consulting with a dietitian or medical provider is a smart move before taking any supplement to check for potential interactions with other medications you may be taking. In cases of serious medical issues that challenge cognition, such as stroke or dementia, consultation with a physician should be your first course of action.  

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