What are nootropics?
The term "nootropics" sounds futuristic and promises just as much: increased brain performance. This term dates back to neuroscientist Professor Corneliu E. Giurgea, who coined it in the early 1980s for the anti-dementia drug Piracetam. However, the word originally comes from ancient Greek philosophy, where "nous" meant "cognition" or "mental perception." Also called "cognitive enhancers" or "brain boosters," nootropics are sometimes mistakenly referred to as "smart drugs" or "brain doping agents," although their use does not constitute doping under WADA guidelines.
Nootropics naturally improve brain function without any healing or metabolic effects. Therefore, they are not classified as medicinal products under the German Medicines Act (AMG), and no prescription is required for purchase in Germany. These products are primarily available as capsules or powder.
Effects of nootropics
The mode of action of nootropics cannot be defined in general terms, as there are various groups, such as stimulating, mood-enhancing, concentration-enhancing, and regeneration-promoting nootropics. The products consist of various active ingredient complexes and often have multiple, overlapping effects.
Common ingredients of nootropics
The ingredients vary depending on the type of nootropic. Acetyl-L-carnitine, for example, promotes acetylcholine synthesis and improves memory. Alpha-GPC and citicoline are also important active ingredients that stimulate acetylcholine transmission. Ashwagandha, Rhodiola rosea, and phenibut have mood-enhancing and stress-relieving properties, while melatonin, a sleep hormone, can treat sleeplessness.
Other common ingredients include DMAA, DMBA, and DMHA, which stimulate the central nervous system, as well as GABA, which has a calming effect. Additionally, many nootropics contain caffeine, guarana, green tea extract, ginkgo, B vitamins, vitamin D, L-tryptophan, and 5-HTP.
Who are nootropics suitable for?
In principle, healthy people can use nootropics, but they should have a specific goal for their use. These products are useful for schoolchildren, students, people taking exams, creative individuals, stressed individuals, athletes, gamers, and people with low mood or sleep problems.
Where can you buy nootropics in Germany?
Nootropics with purely plant-based ingredients are available in many stores and drugstores. Products with synthetic ingredients such as acetyl-L-carnitine or citicoline are only available in specialized shops. Nootropics with problematic ingredients can only be purchased from a few online retailers.
Can nootropics be addictive?
Nootropics don't typically cause physical dependence like drugs or prescription medications. However, caution should be exercised with regular use, as some mood-enhancing products can have a profound effect on the brain and lead to the development of tolerance. Synthetic nootropics can also promote psychological dependence.
Is taking nootropics doping?
Nootropics from regular stores do not constitute doping. However, stimulant nootropics such as modafinil or DMAA contain stimulants that can constitute doping. Athletes should therefore check the ingredients before use and compare them with the WADA list of prohibited substances.
