Nootropic

Nootropic ( gr νόος " mind ", τρόπος " turn towards" ) is a fuzzy -defined term that is used both in pharmacology as well as in other areas such as complementary medicine, wellness and anti-aging application.

In the broadest sense, it is medicines, nutritional supplements, or other substances which have a beneficial effect is attributed to the central nervous system, also called " brain doping agent" or "smart drugs" ( " smart drugs "). In a narrower sense, scientific and pharmacological drugs are meant that are approved as so-called anti-dementia drugs for the treatment of dementia.

Approved nootropics

In the Red List ( edition 2010) are in the main group 11 " anti-dementia drugs ( nootropics ) " lists the following groups of substances:

• Herbal anti-dementia drugs ( nootropics )

• Chemically defined anti-dementia drugs ( nootropics )

• Homeopathics

Effectiveness

The effectiveness of many nootropics as designated substances is controversial.

Most clearly assigned to larger collectives is the effect of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitors donepezil, rivastigmine and galantamine and memantine of NMDA antagonists. Even if this view has not gone without controversy, these drugs are currently recommended in guidelines for the treatment of most forms of dementia.

The study results on the remaining substances are contradictory. This is especially true for the currently most commonly prescribed nootropic Ginkgo. Other drugs are in evidence-based medicine for treating cognitive disorders in the context of dementia to be ineffective.