Before we dwell into the myths about nootropics and debunk them one by one, let’s first find out how the term “nootropic” came about. It was derived by a Romanian scientist named CorneliuGiurgea in 1972. They are synthetic compounds which improve cognitive functions. Simply stated, nootropics are substances that improve a person’s concentration and focus levels by keeping them awake and alert for a long time. Accordingly, people choose the best nootropic supplement that will suit their body the best.
Stated below are some of the common misconceptions that nootropics are associated with and the truth behind them:
If you’re a beginner to nootropics, then you may have heard a lot of myths that suggest you stay away from them as they can wreak havoc on your body or you may get addicted to it and die of an overdose. The below section will be in the form of questions and answers for better understanding, so read on to debunk some of the most used myths about nootropics.
- Are Nootropics the limitless pill?
Not really. Even though the film “Limitless” may have popularized the drug as a Superdrug, but it’s a movie and this concept does not apply to reality. The effects shown onscreen are exaggerated and not the same in truth, any attempt to sell a nootropic based on the movie is just a marketing strategy.
- Are stimulants nootropics?
Not they are not, while stimulants can improve the cognitive functions they run a higher risk to your health as they can get addictive.
- Are nootropics snake oil?
It depends; individual compounds like creatine, piracetam, and bacopa have more research than blended nootropics. Many of these nootropic compounds work well in theory and reality, but that does not distract you from the fact that they can be expensive and sometimes can’t provide the effects that are promised.
- Are nootropics legal?
Most nootropics that are used are legal or fall in a legal grey area. The gray area is considered for drugs like Modafinil, wherein unless you have a prescription, the usage of it is considered illegal; hence, some drugs are legal but conditionally. However, there is limited evidence that the government has taken any kind of action against the use of nootropics.
- Are they safe?
Every nootropic has a safe dosage, to begin with, but every person reacts to medication differently as their body reacts to the chemical changes differently. One safe to begin is to start would be to take a fraction of the whole dosage to rule out any kind of allergic reactions, then slowly you can proceed to half of the dosage to rule out negative reactions and once you are in the clear you can go ahead and take the whole dosage.
- Do nootropics work long term?
Yes they do, it has been proved after intensive research that nootropics if taken consistently, do work long term. BacopaMonnieri is an example of a smart drug that can increase the cognitive function and improve concentration skills for at least 12 weeks.
- How do you know that they are working?
Many nootropics induce a very distinctive feeling, which is subjective and depends on each person and is hard to pin down. Although many beginners will feel impatient and want the drug to come into effect immediately, some nootropics take time to kick in and give the “feeling”.
Conclusion:
With the use of nootropics, you can focus on work, improve your concentration skills, and enhance your creative thinking and learning abilities. These drugs will also prevent mood swings and prevent any type of long-term brain diseases. These smart drugs may not completely change your life but they may help you function better than normal, especially when you’re exhausted.
