Ask 10 people on what their experiences are with Nootropics, and you are likely to get a very wide range of feedback.
But, at least 5 will ask you what the hell are you going on about?!? And then you ask if they ever saw the movie 'Limitless'...
Great movie, but Hollywood needs to sell tickets, so let's just say some artistic license was extended
First off, the definition of Nootropics (provided by the subreddit on the subject): Artificial or natural compounds which are thought boost cognitive function...
That's a pretty wide open territory, so I am going to narrow it down by listing some of the more common Noots I've run into.
Mind you, I am not a Physician (nor a physician's son...) and this is NOT medical advice
First group are the Racetams (ras-a-tams):
- These are easily available on the web, but buyer beware. From the casual users standpoint, these are not really regulated by a government department. Before I get 400 angry replies, leave me just say this: The quality varies wildly from internet providers, but the industry does a good job of self policing. That said, do a little research in forums and you will quickly find reliable suppliers (this holds true for most of the nootropics we'll talk about)
- Couple of General-isms here-- It is suggested to choose a choline source when taking racetams: sometimes I do, sometimes I do not... These are completely legal unregulated substances, however some sports tests include members of the racetam family on the banned substance list. Not all, but some... Racetams tend to give a little more help to 'older' brains. It's scientific, do research... Alcohol does not seem to affect these at all and vice versa... Finally, this family tends to give you a little more focus in a foggy brain...
- Piracetam-- Granddaddy of the family and the 'weakest'. Also has the most studies performed on it and gave birth to the term nootropic. The first one I tried and gave me a tiny hint of sharpness which led me to try some of the others.
- Aniracetam -- This one is the 'socializing' part of the family. Following and participating in conversations becomes very fluid and enjoyable. Games are fun but the participant isn't in any drunk or high stupor. It just picks up the happiness and confidence a notch as if you had a great day and it shows.
- Oxiracetam -- A clarity in what you are doing. A very honed-in focus. This one is very nice when shooting darts, pool, etc. There is a little more of an edge to this one. I like to pair it with L-Theanine, a compound found in tea. It's a calming agent which takes the jitters off of caffeine. Another great 'STACK' when combining Noots. (A stack is simply a combination of multiple nootropics which gives you the desired effect.)
- There are a couple of other which give you an upper type boost but milder (phenylpiracetam and pramiracetam) and a super chill one which delivers a bit more of an artistic flow (colouracetam). This one is said to enhance vividness in your vision and improve sounds especially music...
Peptides
- Noopept -- This peptide was designed to help with age-related cognitive decline. If I am competing in more physical sports, I'll sometimes choose this. It gives you a little more of a competitive attitude toward what you are doing or playing.
- Semax -- This one is used in stacks a lot. It seems to amplify stimulants. I personally don't use it, not because of a bad experience, but just never saw the need for it. This was originally developed for post stroke victim therapy as protecting agent for the brain, so there is that...
Afinils
- The Big Boys -- If you are in search of something which will give you energy, focus, and motivation for a prolonged period of time. Here ya go. The Afinils deliver, but there are some drawbacks. Don't plan on getting any sleep for awhile. Adrafinil is the lowest on the totem pole and it really takes 8-10 hours before you are going to drop off to la la land. The other couple are quite a bit longer. Imagine Ritilan or Adderall without the energy spikes and suppressed emotions. And without the physical dependancies which come with a lot of prescription drugs. (and yes, this is the drug that 'LIMITLESS' was based upon)
- Adrafinil -- The first Noot I took which didn't have me sitting back and trying to discern if I am feeling 'enhanced'. This wakefulness agent is mild but unmistakable. The underlying energy, focus and get-up-and-go are right there. This is the one in the family which is legal without a presciption. Beware however, that when taking this you need to cycle it. Couple of days on and a couple of days off. The reason- this afinil needs to be metabolized by the liver to turn it into modafiinil for the body to get the boost.
- Modafinil -- Need a prescription. This is generally prescribed for narcolepsy or shift work. Prescriptions aren't really difficult to get, but the price may set you off. A lot of people buy illegally from India ($10 pill vs $ 2). You're on your own there. But you do get something that will set you straight in the direction you want to go and give you the kick in the brain to get you there. My advice, hate the price but you get what you pay for.
- Armodafinil -- Prescription also and all I have to say is hold on for dear life. Only was I can describe this one is if the made a pill with coke and weed in it that lasted for 14 hours this would run a close second. I would say if you decide to take this for sports, you're nuts. I would also like to offer some advice. Don't Make Any Plans. But, since you will be taking an afinil, of course you are going to make plans. Grand, maniacal plans... (cue mad laughter)
Tons of Others
From nutrients and plant compounds to common chemicals we see in everyday products, there are a lot of things which fall under the Nootropic umbrella.
I mentioned L-Theanine earlier as a calming agent with caffeine. Most circles consider nicotine a noot, others turn to non-hallucinogenic mushrooms (and the other kind), and still more look at that deadly 'Weed'.
My only suggestion is before you buy the ticket and take the ride, you do a little research...
4 Big TakeAways
- There is no known physical dependency with these nootropics
- They are legally available in one form or another to be purchased
- They act independently of other each other, giving you the ability to 'stack' them for your desired effect.
- As with most things, you're body is unique and will react differently to each of the substances listed above than any other individual's will. Please bear that in mind. Also, your general health will have a big affect on what effects you will experience and to what extent. There is no substitute chemical which is the equivalent of being physically fit.
Peace my Friends...
Once again, I'm not a doctor and I am certainly not telling you to try any of these. I'm just laying out my experiences...
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