Nootropics

[sk8phaze (OP)]

Nootropics (/noʊ.əˈtrɒpɨks/ noh-ə-trop-iks)—also called smart drugs, memory enhancers, neuro enhancers, cognitive enhancers, and intelligence enhancers—are drugs, supplements, nutraceuticals, and functional foods that improve one or more aspects of mental function. Specific effects can include improvements to working memory, motivation, or attention.[1][2] The word nootropic was coined in 1972 by a Romanian psychologist and chemist, Corneliu E. Giurgea,[3][4] from the Greek words νους nous, or "mind", and τρέπειν trepein meaning to bend or turn.[5]

Availability and prevalence
There are only a few drugs that are known to improve some aspect of cognition. Many more are in different stages of development.[6] The most commonly used class of drug is stimulants, such as caffeine.[7]

These drugs are purportedly used primarily to treat cognitive or motor function difficulties attributable to disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and ADHD. Some researchers, however, report more widespread use despite concern for further research.[8] Nevertheless, intense marketing may not correlate with efficacy. While scientific studies support the beneficial effects of some compounds, manufacturer's marketing claims for dietary supplements are usually not formally tested and verified by independent entities.[9]