What does a nootropic mean? Nootropics - features of the pharmaceutical group and a list of the best drugs for effective treatment. Pharmacological properties and mechanism of action

Nootropics are a group of psychotropic drugs that affect the higher functions of the brain and increase its resistance to negative exogenous factors: excessive stress, intoxication, trauma or hypoxia. Nootropics improve memory, increase intelligence, stimulate cognitive activity.

From the ancient Greek language, the term “nootropics” means “the desire for thinking.” This concept was first introduced in the last century by pharmacologists from Belgium. Cerebroprotectors activate neurometabolic processes in the brain and increase the overall resistance of the body to the action of extreme factors.

Nootropics were not separated into an independent pharmacological group; they were combined with psychostimulants. Unlike the latter, nootropics are antihypoxants, but they do not have a negative effect on the body, do not disrupt brain activity, do not affect motor reactions, and do not have a hypnotic and analgesic effect. Nootropics do not increase psychophysical activity and do not cause pharmacological dependence.

All nootropic drugs are divided into 2 large groups:

• “True” nootropics that have the only effect - improving memory and speech;
• , having antihypoxic, sedative, anticonvulsant, muscle relaxant effects.

Nootropics have a primary effect, which is a direct effect on the structures of the nervous system, and a secondary effect aimed at improving microcirculation in the brain, preventing hypoxia. Nootropic drugs stimulate metabolic processes in nervous tissue and normalize them in case of poisoning and traumatic damage.

Currently, pharmacologists are developing and synthesizing new nootropic drugs that have fewer side effects and are more effective. They are characterized by low toxicity and practically do not cause complications. The therapeutic effect of nootropics develops gradually. They should be taken continuously and for a long time.

New generation nootropics are used in various medical fields: pediatrics, obstetrics, neurology, psychiatry and addiction medicine.

Mechanism of action

Nootropics have a direct effect on a number of brain functions, activate them, stimulate mental activity and memory processes. They facilitate the interaction of the right and left hemispheres, as well as the main centers located in the cerebral cortex. Nootropic drugs rejuvenate the body and prolong life.

Neurometabolic cerebroprotectors are nootropic drugs that received their second name due to their biogenic origin and effect on cellular metabolism. These medications increase glucose utilization and ATP formation, stimulate the biosynthesis of proteins and RNA, suppress the process of oxidative phosphorylation, and stabilize cell membranes.

Mechanisms of action of nootropics:

• Membrane stabilizing;
• Antioxidant;
• Antihypoxic;
• Neuroprotective.

As a result of a course of use of nootropic drugs, mental and cognitive processes improve, intelligence increases, metabolism in the nervous tissue is activated, and the brain's resistance to the negative effects of endogenous and exogenous factors increases. Cerebrovasoactive drugs also have a special mechanism of vasodilatory action.

The effectiveness of nootropics increases when combined with angioprotectors and psychostimulants, especially in debilitated individuals.

Nootropic drugs are most often prescribed to older people and children. In old age, it is necessary to correct impaired functions of the intellect: attention and memory, as well as increase creative activity. For children, neurometabolic stimulants will help in the fight against mental retardation.

Main effects

Nootropic drugs have the following effects on the human body:

spectrum of action of nootropics

1. Psychostimulating - stimulation of brain functions in mentally inert persons suffering from hypobulia, apathy, psychomotor retardation.
2. Antihypoxic - formation of resistance of brain cells to oxygen deficiency.
3. Sedative - a calming, slowing effect on the body.
4. Antiasthenic - elimination of symptoms of asthenic syndrome.
5. Antidepressant - fight against depression.
6. Antiepileptic - prevention of convulsions, loss and confusion of consciousness, behavioral and autonomic disorders.
7. Nootropic - stimulation of cognitive activity.
8. Adaptogenic - the development of the body's resistance to the effects of negative factors.
9. Vasovegetative - acceleration of cerebral blood flow and elimination of the main symptoms.
10. Lipolytic - the use of fatty acids as a source of energy.
11. Antitoxic - neutralization or excretion of various toxic substances from the body.
12. Immunostimulating - strengthening the immune system and increasing the overall resistance of the body.

Indications and contraindications

Indications for the use of nootropic drugs:

Nootropics are contraindicated in individuals with individual hypersensitivity to the main active ingredient of the drug, severe psychomotor agitation, hepatic and renal insufficiency or bulimia, as well as those who have had acute, suffering from Hettington's chorea, who have severe renal dysfunction, pregnant and lactating women.

Side effects

Side effects that occur during treatment with nootropic drugs:

1. Hyperexcitability,
2. Weakness,
3. Insomnia,
4. Worry, anxiety,
5. Dyspeptic symptoms
6. Hepato- or nephrotoxicity,
7. eosinophilia,
8. Frequent attacks of angina pectoris,
9. Convulsions, seizures,
10. Balance imbalance
11. Hallucinations,
12. Ataxia,
13. confusion,
14. Fever,
15. Thrombophlebitis and pain at the injection site,
16. Motor disinhibition,
17. Feeling of heat and facial flushing,
18. Rash on the face and body like urticaria.

Description of drugs

List of the best nootropic drugs that are widely used in medical practice:

• "Piracetam" has a positive effect on metabolic processes in the brain. The drug is prescribed for the treatment, improvement of memory, correction of dyslexia, cerebrovascular disease and in children. Piracetam is a first-aid remedy for withdrawal symptoms and delirium in alcoholics. It is used for viral neuroinfections and in complex therapy of myocardial infarction.
• "Vinpocetine"– a neurometabolic agent that dilates brain vessels and improves microcirculation. The drug supplies brain tissue with oxygen and nutrients and reduces systemic blood pressure. Vinpocetine tablets thin the blood and improve its rheological properties. The medicine has an antioxidant and neuroprotective effect. First, the drug is administered intravenously for 14 days, and then proceed to oral administration of tablets.
• "Phenibut" prescribed to patients with asthenia, neuroses, insomnia, and dysfunction of the vestibular apparatus. Children "Fenibut" helps to cope with stuttering and tics. The drug normalizes metabolism in tissues, has a psychostimulating, antiplatelet and antioxidant effect. Phenibut is low toxic and non-allergic.
• "Pantogam"– an effective nootropic drug, widely used to treat children. The main active ingredient of the medicine is vitamin B 15. This is a physiologically active substance found in almost all plants and products.
• "Phenotropil" is a latest generation drug that is popular with both patients and doctors. It has a pronounced adaptogenic effect and increases the body's resistance to stress. The drug is not addictive. It is often recommended to students while preparing for a session.
• "Fezam"– a nootropic drug intended for the complex treatment of cerebral circulatory disorders. It has an effective effect on the nervous system, dilates blood vessels, stimulates the functioning of the organ of hearing and vision. “Fezam” eliminates the effects of hypoxia, relieves headaches, fights dizziness and amnesia. Persons who have suffered a stroke or TBI take Phezam for a long time. It helps patients recover quickly and eliminates the negative consequences of pathologies. “Piracetam” and “Cinnarizine”, which are part of the drug, dilate blood vessels in the brain, improve brain nutrition, protein and carbohydrate metabolism, stimulate local blood flow, and reduce blood viscosity. Thanks to both components, the antihypoxic effect and antiplatelet activity are enhanced, and metabolism in the cells of the nervous system improves.
• "Cinnarizine"– a nootropic drug that strengthens the walls of brain vessels and causes their dilation without changing blood pressure. Cinnarizine has a sensitizing effect, suppresses nystagmus and is an effective preventative against motion sickness. It dilates small arteries and peripheral capillaries. The drug is produced in a single dosage form - in the form of tablets for oral use. "Cinnarizine" is prescribed not only for the treatment of cerebrovascular insufficiency, but also for the prevention of migraine attacks and kinetosis. The medicine relieves symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia and: weakness, headache, dizziness. "Cinnarizine" is used to alleviate the condition during menopause. The drug normalizes sleep, relieves irritability, and eliminates anxiety.
• "Cerebrolysin" is a complex nootropic drug that has undergone clinical trials that have confirmed its effectiveness and safety. The medicine is produced in the form of tablets and solution for injection. Cerebrolysin is prescribed for the treatment of patients with various forms of mental and neurological diseases. According to reviews, Cerebrolysin activates mental processes and improves mood. Long-term use of the drug improves memory processes, increases concentration and learning ability.
• "Actovegin"– an antihypoxic agent intended for the treatment of metabolic and vascular disorders of the brain and promoting rapid wound healing. The medicine is used for the prevention and treatment of radiation skin lesions, peripheral vascular disorders, and diabetic polyneuropathy. "Actovegin" is produced in tablets for oral use, as well as in the form of a solution for intramuscular, intravenous and intra-arterial injections. Actovegin gel, ointment and cream are used topically.

Nootropic drugs include a large group of psychotropic drugs that help a person get rid of numerous effects on his nervous system. The newest nootropics are devoid of many of the dangerous side effects that were characteristic of the first generations of medicines, and are considered completely safe.

Modern nootropic drugs (neurometabolic stimulants) or simply nootropics are a large group of medicinal substances that have such an effect on the brain when its mental functions improve. As a result, the action of these drugs activates the thinking and memory ability (cognitive functions), increases the brain's resistance to the influence of negative exogenous factors - lack of oxygen, polluted atmosphere, toxins, stress and emotional overload, traumatic effects. In other words, they have an important ability to reduce neurological deficits.

The main principle of action of nootropics is based on their active participation in the metabolism and biological energetics of neurons, and is also carried out by influencing the mediators of neuroprocesses in the brain. In particular, they increase the level of adenylate cyclase in nerve cells and accelerate the production of ATP, which significantly affects cellular energy. The effect on the production of RNA and some proteins leads to the acceleration of plastic processes in the nervous system.

As a result of a series of metabolic transformations, serotonin is released, which is a catalyst for intracellular potassium and calcium ions. Adenosine triphosphoric acid helps maintain the speed of metabolic processes during oxygen deficiency, which reduces the risk of oxygen starvation. Finally, nootropics optimize glucose utilization.

The best nootropic drugs can have the following effects:

1. Stabilization of membranes by normalizing phospholipid and protein synthesis, as well as streamlining the structure of membrane cells.
2. Antioxidant capacity resulting from inhibition of free radical formation and lipid oxidation.
3. The antihypoxic effect is due to a decrease in oxygen consumption.
4. Neuroprotection is characterized by an increase in the resistance of neurons to the action of aggressive exogenous factors.
5. Improving blood microcirculation by improving the penetration of red blood cells through the vascular walls and blocking platelet production.
6. Improvement of electrophysiological patterns, which provides easier transmission of signals between the hemispheres, increased level of wakefulness and EEG power of the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. This ultimately leads to optimization of integrative brain function.
7. Optimization of control of cortico-subcortical processes, information exchange between parts of the brain, and the formation of a memorable imprint. These effects provide improved attentiveness, mental reaction, memory, perception of information, and contribute to increased intelligence and cognitive functions.

When are nootropics prescribed?

Neotropic drugs were developed to treat brain dysfunction and were intended primarily for older people. The development of pharmacology in this direction has made it possible to significantly expand the abilities of nootropics, which makes it possible to use them in various branches of medicine (neurology, psychiatry, pediatrics, surgery, gynecology, etc.).

1. Dementia of various types, incl. for Alzheimer's disease, vascular and senile pathologies.
2. Cerebrovascular pathologies of a chronic nature.
3. Syndrome of psychoorganic damage.
4. Post-traumatic syndrome caused by poor circulation as a result of damage to the skull.
5. Severe intoxication.
6. Diseases caused by the penetration of neuroinfections.
7. Deviations of intellectual-mnestic, asthenic, depressive nature.
8. Neurotic type disorders.
9. Dystonia of the vegetative-vascular system.
10. Chronic alcoholism and associated pathologies such as encephalopathy, abstinence.
11. Mental retardation.

A child, like an adult, in some cases needs psychotropic therapy. Nootropic drugs for children are remembered in pediatrics for amino acid deficiency, leading to a deterioration in protein synthesis and, in general, disruption of metabolic processes. The reasons for prescribing such drugs are the following circumstances: a significant lag in the mental and speech development of the child; noticeable deviation in mental development; signs of congenital, perinatal disorders of the nervous system; cerebral paralysis; pronounced signs of attention deficit disorder.

New generation neotropics also cope well with some other diseases that are affected by processes occurring in the brain. According to the decision of a specialist, nootropic drugs can be used in the following conditions:

1. Elimination of manifestations of neuroleptic syndrome. Hopanthenic acid, Pantogam and other drugs can be used.
2. Treatment of stuttering and hyperkinesis. The drug Phenibut is effective.
3. For disorders of the urinary organs, Pantogam can be prescribed.
4. Glycine helps fight chronic insomnia.
5. For migraines, Pyritinol or Semax are recommended.
6. Such an unpleasant phenomenon as motion sickness and seasickness can be treated with Phenibut.
7. Complex therapy of ophthalmological problems often includes the use of Nicotinoil.

When problems might arise

Nootropics also have contraindications in circumstances where their use can cause negative consequences. They should not be taken if you are hypersensitive to the main active substance or any additional ingredient of the drug; pronounced course of renal failure, both in acute and chronic forms; at the acute stage of a hemorrhagic stroke; congenital Gettington's chorea associated with degenerative lesions of the central nervous system. Only in exceptional cases is it possible to prescribe drugs to pregnant women and nursing mothers. With extreme caution, nootropics are given to young children and only after reaching 1 year of age.

New nootropics are fairly well tolerated by patients. However, individual reactions are possible in the form of such side effects - the appearance of an incomprehensible anxious feeling; temporary insomnia at night and craving for sleep during the day; irritability; blood pressure surges; dyspeptic disorders; allergic reactions of various kinds. Elderly people rarely experience cardiac problems, in particular heart failure, when taking nootropics.

What medications are there?

The list of nootropic drugs includes many drugs, divided into groups that differ in chemical composition, focus, and mechanism of action. The following main categories are distinguished.

Stimulators of metabolic processes in neurons:

1. Based on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The main representatives are Phenibut, Picamilon and Aminalon. An analogue is hopantenic acid.
2. Compounds based on pyrrolidone (racetams). The most common drugs are Piracetam and Phenylpiracetam. Derivatives such as Aniracetam, Oxiracetam and Pramiracetam may be prescribed.
3. Pantothenic acid derivatives – Pantogam.
4. When using the active substance dimethylaminoethanol, Acefen and Centrophenoxin are produced. Drugs such as Phenotropil and Meclofenoxate have gained popularity.
5. Preparations containing amino acids and peptides. The most famous are Glycine, Actovegin, Biotredin and Cerebrolysin. Popular neuropeptides are Noopept, Semax, Selank. Polypeptides include Cortexin, Cerebramin.

Drugs to reduce the effects of hypoxia. The best remedy is Hydroxymethylethylpyridine succinate.

Nootropics with the effect of vitamin-like substances or adaptogens. These include products based on folic and succinic acid, vitamins E and B15, and ginseng root. Idebenone stands out in this category.

Drugs to normalize the condition of blood vessels (vasotropes). They help get rid of cerebral problems. Stand out - Instenon, Cinnarizine. Vinpocetine may be prescribed.

Memory improvement is achieved by using nootropics from the following subgroups:

• cholinomimetic and anticholesterase drugs – Amiridin and Choline;
• hormonal-type drugs - Corticotropin, ACTH, as well as a number of drugs related to endorphins and enkephalins.

A significant difference in the effectiveness of nootropics is revealed when considering such a feature as the time of their development. Older or first-generation drugs continue to be used, but they have an increased risk of side effects. These drugs are mainly derivatives of Piracetam - most are racetams.

Most popular drugs

Currently, depending on the type of psychogenic deviation, first and second generation nootropics are used, as well as drugs from the latest developments. You can make an indicative list of the most popular nootropic drugs:

1. Piracetam or similar products (Lucetam, Nootropil). The form of administration to the body is oral tablets, intramuscular injections and intravenous droppers. The most characteristic effects are the normalization of metabolic processes and blood circulation. Considering that Piracetam belongs to the first generation of drugs, one can expect side effects such as an increase in platelet levels, leading to a deterioration in blood clotting.
2. Pramiracetam is available in tablet form. Although it is an older development, it has high cognitive properties, which helps improve memory. Possesses sedative abilities. Can be used for a long course of therapy. The drug should not be taken in renal failure.
3. Cavinton. Analogues are Neurovin and Vinpocetine. In addition to neuralgia, this drug is recommended for some ophthalmological pathologies and hearing problems. The course of admission is quite long - 2-7 months. During the acute phase of the disease, it is administered by injection, and as the disease weakens, a transition to tablets is made.
4. Phenibut. You can use its analogues - Bifren and Noobut. Release form - tablets, powder for injection solutions, capsules. This nootropic is effective for increasing mental response and physical performance, relieving stress, getting rid of anxious feelings and phobias, and improving sleep quality. Prescribed for hypoxia. Useful when traveling on water, because. eliminates the influence of pitching. The course of treatment lasts 30-40 days. The drug should not be taken simultaneously with sedatives and sleeping pills.
5. Hopantenic acid (often sold under the name Pantogam). Recommended to reduce motor excitability. A positive effect is detected within 25-30 days after the start of administration, but the full course can last 5-6 months.
6. Glycine. Best known as an anti-stress drug. Helps to relieve excessive excitability and irritability. It has a pronounced sedative effect and also helps normalize metabolism in the body.
7. Cerebrolysin. It is used for serious lesions of the central nervous system, incl. useful in Alzheimer's disease. It is most often administered by injection, and is most widely used in the treatment of post-traumatic syndrome and the consequences of stroke.
8. Encephabol. It can be prescribed to both adults and children, while in the latter case a suspension with additives that improve taste is used. The drug belongs to strong neuroprotectors and antioxidants with high cognitive abilities.

Latest generation drugs

Pharmacology around the world is taking active measures to improve nootropics, resulting in more effective and safe drugs. The following nootropic drugs have gained popularity:

1. Phezam - is used to normalize the blood supply to the brain, improve protein metabolism and energy. It has vasodilating properties.
2. Phenylpiracetam – necessary during the period after stroke rehabilitation. Often used to improve memory, concentration, to eliminate convulsive phenomena.
3. Noopept is especially effective for normalizing cognitive brain functions, eliminating anxiety and phobias, and chronic headaches of a neurogenic nature.
4. Selank - helps to relieve stress surges, eliminate the needy state. It increases mental reaction, fights apathy and gloomy mood.

Nootropics also find a worthy place in child psychiatry and pediatrics. For babies, these drugs are available in the form of granules for making syrup or in the form of ready-made syrup. The most common use is for cerebral and encephalopathic disorders, as well as for significant retardation in intellectual development and lack of memory. For children, we can recommend stimulant drugs such as Picamilon and Cogitum, as well as drugs with a sedative effect - Cortexin and Phenibut.

What are new generation nootropic drugs and how do they differ from other drugs in this group, what active ingredients do they contain and for what diseases and disorders are they indicated, rules for using nootropics.

New generation nootropic drugs are drugs that are responsible for stimulating the brain and its work, protecting nervous reactions. The list of new drugs in this group is quite large. As a rule, these are complex substances that consist of the nootropic component itself, as well as a number of additional ingredients, such as amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins, which improve the functioning of brain cells.

Features and types of new generation nootropics

Nootropics in various forms have been used by people since ancient times. The simplest and very first known nootropic is choline. The substance contains eggs, meat, fish, seafood. After eating food that is rich in animal protein, the hormone serotonin is produced in the brain.

It is responsible for the feeling of pleasure and also has a positive effect on neuronal connections. The brain starts to work actively, memory becomes better, as do thought processes. Similar nootropic simple substances are found in green tea, coffee, nicotine, and amphetamines.

After nootropic drugs were developed and studied in the laboratory in the mid-20th century, a classification of these drugs was created: stimulants, reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, racetams, vasodilators, metabolic enhancers.

Currently, racetams are mainly used in medicine. These substances are the basis of new nootropics. Racetams are a chemical structure that is derived from pyrrolidine. Today there are many different new generation pharmacological drugs.

Previously, in order to improve mental activity, plant components such as lemongrass, ginseng, and ginkgo biloba were widely used. These plants are now the ingredients of nootropic drugs. Unlike natural stimulants, the latter have a more precise effect on specific areas of the brain.

This makes it possible to use new drugs not only to enhance memory and improve intelligence, but also in the treatment of more serious disorders and ailments, such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. Thanks to this, these drugs are considered the most effective among all nootropic drugs.

Composition and characteristics of the components of new nootropics

As a rule, such drugs contain two or more components that complement each other’s action. Often in the composition of new nootropics can be found:

1. Dimethylaminoethanol. This is a substance that is actively involved in the synthesis of acetylcholine. Acts as an antioxidant, improves memory, mental abilities, and physical endurance.
2. Gamma aminobutyric acid. The main inhibitory neurotransmitter of the CNS. Takes an active part in brain metabolism, as well as in neurotransmitter processes.
3. Pantothenic acid (B5). Participates in the metabolic processes of the brain, the synthesis of acetylcholine. Participates in the synthesis of neurotransmitters.
4. Pyridoxine (B6). This is a protein coenzyme that is involved in the uniform supply of glucose to the body’s cells and is involved in the processing of amino acids.
5. Vitamin B15. Helps eliminate cell hypoxia, has a vasodilating effect, and has a detoxifying property.
6. Vitamin E. Takes part in the synthesis of hormones, acts as an antioxidant, prevents the formation of blood clots, and helps muscles function normally.
7. Folic acid. Participates in the processes of DNA replication, in cell division.

Beneficial properties of new generation nootropic drugs

According to the definition of the World Health Organization, the group of new generation nootropics should include drugs that have a direct activating effect on the learning process, memory, and mental activity. In addition, these drugs increase the brain’s resistance to various aggressive factors.

The general properties of new nootropic drugs are as follows:

• Improving thought processes - learning or cognitive functions;
• Increasing the speed of memorization and strength of data storage;
• Growth of intellectual activity, increase in the volume of intellectual abilities;
• Forgetting stressful conditions and information about various pains;
• Stimulation of metabolic processes in neural tissue, mainly in various pathologies, such as intoxication, injury, anoxia;
• Improving the impact on the mental state and higher nervous activity in morphological and functional pathologies;
• Increased resistance of the brain's thought processes to unfavorable factors of the internal and external environment: stroke, trauma, hypoxia.

New generation nootropic drugs do not affect the psyche and higher nervous activity of a healthy person.

Indications for the use of new nootropics

Let's take a closer look at the indications for taking new generation nootropic drugs to improve mental performance:

1. Psychoorganic Syndrome. In medicine, it is understood as a broad group of diseases that manifest themselves in dystrophic changes in nerve tissue. These are the following illnesses: epilepsy, various types of dementia, Parkinson's disease, neuroinfections, cerebral palsy, ischemic stroke.
2. Chronic alcoholism, which is accompanied by withdrawal syndrome and delirium.
3. Addiction.
4. Asthenia of organic and neurotic origin, asthenoneurotic and asthenodepressive syndromes, VSD, migraine, sleep disorders, emotional lability.
5. Correction of neuroleptic syndrome.
6. Impaired proper urination of neurogenic etiology.
7. Somatic-vegetative disorders.
8. Neurotic and neurosis-like pathologies.
9. Chronic cerebrovascular insufficiency.
10. Sickle cell anemia.
11. Chronic psychopathologies, schizophrenia, childhood mental retardation, neurosis-like disorders, depression.
12. Organic brain syndrome of elderly people.
13. As part of the complex treatment of ophthalmological pathologies.

Side effects and contraindications of new nootropics

Each drug of the nootropic class has its own contraindications. In general terms the following can be distinguished:

• Pregnancy;
• Lactation;
• Individual intolerance to components;
• Psychomotor agitation;
• Bulimia;
• Kidney failure;
• Liver failure;
• Huntington's chorea;
• The period after acute hemorrhagic stroke;
• Severe renal dysfunction.

The mechanism of action of new generation nootropic drugs

Nootropic drugs directly affect a number of brain functions. As a result, the interaction between the hemispheres and the main centers of the cortex improves.

New generation medications increase the utilization of sugar, as well as the formation of ATP, and have a stimulating effect on the synthesis of RNA and proteins. The process of oxidative phospholation under their influence is suspended, and cell membranes are stabilized.

The mechanisms of action of new nootropics include:

1. Antioxidant;
2. Membrane stabilizing;
3. Neuroprotective;
4. Antihypoxic.

The advantage of this mechanism of action is that no irreversible changes occur in the cortex. With the ease with which racetam molecules bind to receptors, they become detached.

Additionally, since the human body does not produce racetams on its own, there are unlikely to be any byproducts that could cause negative effects. Thus, a powerful nootropic effect is achieved without side effects.

Each racetam has a unique formula that allows it to bind to specific neuroreceptors. As a rule, such drugs are used in groups in order to achieve a better effect.

The effectiveness of new generation nootropic drugs for older people increases if they are combined with psychostimulants and angioprotectors. This is how impaired intellectual functions are stimulated and corrected. For children, neurometabolic stimulants are recommended to combat mental retardation.

Instructions for use of new nootropics

Self-administration of new generation nootropic drugs without the advice of a doctor is prohibited. It is only permissible to use herbal medicines based on ginkgo biloba, lemongrass and other plants without prescribing. Such drugs are rather biologically active additives than medicines.

There are many different drugs in this group. They have different shapes and directions of action. They are mainly produced in the form of tablets, capsules, injection solutions and suspensions.

It should be noted that the maximum effectiveness of the use of these drugs is achieved only after several weeks and even months.

Review of new generation nootropics

The list of new generation nootropic drugs is quite extensive. As a rule, the latest drugs have a combined composition and combine racetams and excipients.

Popular means are:

• Fezam. It is a combination of Piracetam and Cynarizine. The medicine is in the form of capsules. It is recommended as a tool in the complex therapy for the treatment of circulatory disorders in the brain. After its use, microcirculation in the brain improves, blood vessels expand, vision and hearing improve. The drug eliminates the effects of hypoxia, relieves headaches, dizziness, fights amnesia. As a rule, people who have suffered a stroke, encephalitis and various traumatic brain injuries are prescribed Phezam for a long time. The price for a package of the drug (60 capsules) ranges from 170 to 250 rubles.
• Orocetam. Combination of piracetam and orotic acid. These are injections for intravenous administration. The drug helps overcome severe brain intoxication. Improves metabolic processes in brain cells. Activates the reparative and detoxification function of the liver. The price is about 50 rubles per ampoule of the drug.
• Thiocetam. Combination of piracetam and thiotriosaline. It comes in the form of tablets and injections. Used to improve cerebral blood circulation in the cerebral cortex. Often used to treat speech disorders and the consequences of alcohol intoxication. The price of the new generation nootropic drug Thiocetam is 540 rubles per package of 60 tablets.

Nootropic drugs are popularly called "smart" pills. After all, these drugs improve the brain. They activate learning, improve memory. Piracetam was the first nootropic synthesized in 1963. During the study of the drug, scientists confirmed that the drug increases mental abilities, improves memory, and performance. Today, many drugs have been developed that have a similar effect. These are new generation nootropics. We'll talk about them.

Mechanism of action

New generation nootropics do not cause addiction in humans. In addition, they do not provoke psychomotor agitation. Taking them does not cause depletion of physical capabilities.

It is generally well tolerated. But some patients may experience undesirable reactions, which were discussed above. In case of disturbances in carbohydrate metabolism, this remedy is not used because it contains sucrose.

The drug "Pantogam"

The medicine can activate mental activity, normalize behavioral reactions, and increase performance. Actively promotes enrichment of the brain with oxygen.

This product is approved for use by children from 1 year of age. Used for babies suffering from cognitive disorders. Mainly for speech delay, hyperactivity syndrome.

The average cost of the drug is 358 rubles.

List of the best nootropics

Today there is simply a huge list of effective medications. In addition, new drugs appear on the pharmacological market from time to time. After all, developments to create the most effective means are constantly underway.

If we talk about the best nootropics, doctors highlight the following medications:

• "Piracetam" (it still belongs to the rank of highly effective drugs).
• "Nootropil"
• "Phenotropil".
• "Glycine".
• "Meclofenoxate."
• "Cerebrolysin".
• "Aminalon".
• "Bemitil."
• "Biotredin".
• "Vinpocetine."

Patient opinions

From the above, it is quite clear how the nootropic is positioned in the instructions for use. Reviews from patients who have tested the medications themselves largely confirm their effective effect on the body.

A special place is occupied by the same old drug "Piracetam". It is prescribed for many pathologies, especially after traumatic brain injuries. Patients who adhere to the course of treatment prescribed by the doctor notice that unpleasant phenomena such as migraines and dizziness are eliminated under the influence of the medicine.

Excellent remedies, especially for VSD, are the drugs “Cinarizine” and “Vinpocetine”. They eliminate such unwanted symptoms as constant dizziness, blue nail plates, cold extremities and many others. However, some patients may experience side effects.

Despite this, it is the patients who assure that nootropic drugs can “simply bring you back to life”! Therefore, love yourself, take care of your health and take the medications your doctor prescribed for you!

Currently, many people, especially those living in megacities, regularly experience mental stress. Poor environmental conditions also have a negative impact on the body of residents of large cities. Stress is far from harmless. Frequent overstrain of the nervous system eventually leads to its exhaustion, resulting in more or less pronounced nervous disorders and even mental illnesses. Exposure to stress factors greatly increases the likelihood of developing pathologies of the cardiovascular system. On "nervous soil" and often develop.

A person exposed to regular stress has a reduced ability to remember and worsens cognitive performance. He becomes more irritable and susceptible. For many decades, experts have been trying to find means to prevent and minimize the adverse effects of stress on the human body.

Nootropics are medications that improve memory ability, stimulate mental activity and make the human brain more resistant to factors such as oxygen deprivation, the influence of toxic substances and even injury.

Note:the first effective nootropic - Piracetam was obtained over half a century ago. It was created by pharmacologists from Belgium. The drug passed extensive clinical trials in 1963.

Work on the creation of new drugs-nootropics is actively underway today. Currently, there are a number of very effective drugs that increase the functional activity of the brain. They help people cope with psycho-emotional stress and stabilize the functioning of the nervous system.

The nootropic effect is a positive effect on the higher functions of the cortex.

Other positive effects of modern nootropic drugs include:

Note:The anti-asthenic effect is to reduce the feeling of general weakness and lethargy, as well as to minimize the manifestations of mental asthenia. The mnemotropic effect suggests an improvement in the ability to remember and learn in general. Under the vasovegetative action is understood the stimulation of blood circulation in the so-called. "brain pool". Nootropic drugs are strong adaptogens that allow the body to adapt to the effects of various (mostly unfavorable) environmental factors.

The latest generation of nootropics can increase mental clarity. Modern drugs of this class do not provoke psychomotor agitation. They do not cause drug dependence (addiction) and even with long-term use do not deplete the body’s own resources.

Nootropics are able to activate the process of biosynthesis of ribonucleic acid and protein compounds in the central nervous system. They accelerate energy processes in the processes of cells of the nervous system and improve the transmission of nerve impulses. The drugs at the cellular level significantly reduce the formation of free radicals, i.e., they have an antioxidant effect. They optimize the utilization of glucose and other polysaccharide compounds. Nootropic drugs are responsible for the formation of proteins and phospholipids in neurocytes, due to which their membranes are stabilized. Drugs of this group increase the concentration of adenylate cyclase in the cells of the nervous system, due to which the process of ATP, the main energy base of cells, is normalized. Adenosine triphosphoric acid, in conditions of insufficient oxygen supply, stabilizes metabolism in the brain.

Important:nootropic drugs increase the level of formation and release of neurotransmitters - serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine and acetylcholine.

Classification of nootropic drugs

Nootropics include drugs from several clinical and pharmacological groups.

1. Metabolism stimulants in nerve cells:
   • GABA derivatives:

• Phenibut;
• Aminalon;
• Hopantenic acid.
  • Pyrrolidone derivatives:
• Piracetam;
• Phenylpiracetam;
• Pramiracetam.

Note:Pantothenic acid compounds include the common nootropic Pantogam, and Pyritinol is produced based on vitamin B6.

• Products containing dimethylaminoethanol include:

• Centrophenoxine;
• Acefen.
  • Among the drugs with peptides and amino acids are the following drugs:
• Actovegin;
• Glycine;
• Cerebrolysin.

1. Nootropics that reduce the negative effects of oxygen deficiency include, in particular, Oxymethylethylpyridine succinate.
2. Vitamin-like drugs and nootropic adaptogens include succinic acid, vitamins E and B15, and ginseng root extract.
3. Vasotropic, i.e., drugs that have a positive effect on cerebral blood vessels, are Vinpocetine, Cinnarizine and Instenon.
4. To improve memory, drugs with different mechanisms of action are used:
   • Anticholesterase drugs and cholinomimetics:

• Choline;
• Galantamine;
• Amiridine.
  • Hormonal drugs:
• endorphins;
• enkephalins;
• ACTH;
• Corticotropin.

Indications for the use of nootropic drugs

Drugs of this clinical and pharmacological group are prescribed for the following diseases and pathological conditions:

• decreased mental and physical activity;
• deterioration of thinking abilities;
• problems with memory and concentration;
• neuroinfections (for example, encephalitis or polio);
• effects on the brain of toxic substances;
• consequences of impaired cerebral blood flow;
• senile dementia;
• encephalopathy and withdrawal symptoms due to regular alcohol abuse;
• stuttering;
• consequences of TBI (brain damage);
• ischemic stroke;
• enuresis;
• hyperkinesis.

Note:nootropic drugs are used in the treatment of ophthalmological diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, retinal pathologies of vascular origin and open-angle glaucoma

Nootropics in pediatrics

Pediatricians can prescribe nootropic drugs to children suffering from the following pathologies:

• delayed speech development;
• deviations in general mental development;
• mental retardation of varying degrees of severity;
• damage during birth (for example, due to hypoxia).

Contraindications to the use of nootropics

Nootropics are not prescribed to patients diagnosed with:

• hypersensitivity to the active component or intolerance to auxiliary ingredients;
• a pronounced decrease in the functional activity of the kidneys (acute or chronic renal failure);
• hemorrhagic stroke (acute period);
• Gettington's chorea (hereditary degenerative disease of the central nervous system).

Important:Nootropic drugs are not prescribed to pregnant and lactating women!

Side effects

The vast majority of patients tolerate therapy with nootropic drugs well.

In some cases, the following side effects may develop:

• unmotivated feeling of anxiety;
• night sleep disturbances;
• daytime sleepiness;
• increased irritability;
• instability of blood pressure;
• dyspeptic disorders;
• allergy.

Note:In elderly and senile patients, nootropics in rare cases can provoke an increase in the severity of clinical manifestations of coronary insufficiency.

Drugs that are currently most widely used in clinical practice

1. Piracetam (analogs – Nootropil and Lucetam) It is produced in tablet form for oral administration, as well as in the form of a solution for intramuscular injection and intravenous infusion. The product improves metabolism in the central nervous system and stimulates cerebral circulation. Piracetam has a negative effect on platelet aggregation, and therefore should be used with caution in case of bleeding disorders.

1. Pramiracetam, which is available in tablet form, is characterized by a high degree of affinity for choline. The drug increases cognitive abilities and improves memory. It does not have a calming (sedative) property. The product is recommended for long-term course treatment; the effect fully develops after 1-2 months from the start of administration. Use with caution in patients suffering from renal failure!
2. Cavinton (analogs - Vinpocetine and Neurovin). The product is produced by pharmaceutical companies both in the form of tablets and in injection solution. It improves blood flow in cerebral vessels. The drug is widely used in neurology, as well as in ophthalmological practice for the complex treatment of retinal pathologies. It is also effective in improving hearing acuity. A course of treatment is recommended for 1-8 months, depending on the nosological form and dynamics. The drug should be discontinued by gradually reducing the dose over 4-5 days. In the acute period of the disease, parenteral administration of the solution is indicated; As the condition improves, the injection form is replaced with tablets.

1. Phenibut (analogues – Noobut ​​and Bifren)– produced in the form of powder, capsules and tablets. The drug helps combat memory loss and oxygen starvation of nerve cells. It increases not only mental but also physical performance, reduces nervous tension, gets rid of anxiety and normalizes sleep. Phenibut should be prescribed with caution in parallel with sleeping pills and antipsychotics, as the nootropic potentiates their effect. The drug is indicated for decreased intelligence and neurosis-like disorders. It is recommended for travelers as a remedy for seasickness and motion sickness. A course of treatment is indicated for 1-1.5 months.

1. Cerebrolysin– has a positive effect in the treatment of serious organic lesions and neurodegenerative pathologies of the central nervous system, including even Alzheimer’s disease. The drug is widely used in complex treatment of the consequences of head injuries and strokes. The product is produced in the form of an injection solution.

1. Encephabol– for adults it is available in tablets, and for children – in the form of a suspension with a pleasant taste and smell. The drug is a powerful neuroprotector and antioxidant. The product normalizes behavioral functions and improves cognitive abilities.