The purpose of medication is to help one heal when they are sick or injured. Nootropics, on the other hand, are synthetic compounds that enhance one’s cognitive ability.

The term itself is an umbrella term, meaning, that there is a myriad of nootropics that are used for different functions of the brain. Some are meant for focus and energy, while others are used for anti-anxiety and relaxation.

L-theanine, for example, is used for relaxation, anti-anxiety, cognition, focus, vitality, neuroprotection and sleep quality.

The goal is to find the chemical compound that works for one’s self. Nootropics, however, must follow certain criteria to be considered a nootropic:

–    enhance memory and learning ability,

–    help the brain function under disruptive conditions,

–    protect the brain from harmful chemical damage,

–    improve neuronal firing mechanisms, and

–    lack any sedative, stimulant or toxic effects.

The general rule of thumb is that a nootropic should provide the user more control over their neurochemistry.

Keep in mind that these are not “cure-alls” taking any substance for a prolonged amount of time will build a dependency from it. Nootropics are still a very new study after all.

Some of the more common side-effects include the following:

–    Headaches

–    Stomach cramps

–    Neurotransmission depletion

–    Dependency

–    Crashes

These are just a few.

Furthermore, there are also false nootropics, which get people high and counteract the purpose of taking nootropics. The goal behind them is to keep one in an optimal state of mind in a healthy manner. Any nootropic that comes with substantial side effects is not a nootropic.

Keeping the mind and body healthy is vital to functioning in the modern day. These are no replacement for exercise, reading, meditation and other healthy recreational habits. These are supplements that are there to help for the time and place. Extensive use of any substance will only lead to dysphoria.

While studies show benefits of these drugs it is still new to the market and there has been no long-term research conducted yet and addiction can still exist within these “Smart Drugs” that claim to be safe.