The culture of smart drugs has risen dramatically in recent times. College students, as well as working individuals, are using smart drugs. Smart drugs are cognitive enhancers that improve cognitive abilities such as working memory and focus, and are used for improving productivity or making study more effective. They are generally prescribed to treat sleeping disorders like narcolepsy. Although there is extensive research about smart drugs being useful for treating other mental health problems, nothing is yet conclusive.
Perhaps the greater use of smart drugs is in increasing cognitive function. People usually buy them to perform better at work or school. Unauthorized use remains the reason why smart drugs are prevalent. Some of the most famous names are Adderall, Modafinil, Armodafinil, Ritalin, Phenylpiracetam, and Noopept.
In many countries like the USA, the UK, Australia, Canada, and most of Europe, you cannot buy these drugs without a doctor’s prescription. However, there are other ways to acquire it, the most popular by far is via online pharmacies. Let us look further into the drugs mentioned above:
1. Modafinil
Modafinil is prescribed to treat narcolepsy, sleep apnea, or shift-work problems. It is a Schedule IV drug in the USA. The Modafinil compound is proven effective in promoting alertness. This is the reason why it remains a popular choice among smart drug users. Its off-label use makes it even more popular. However, there are also side-effects related to Modafinil, such as anxiety, nausea or insomnia.
Research has been conducted over the years regarding the use of Modafinil. Scientists have uncovered quite interesting facts regarding the drug’s potency and its safety when compared to Adderall or Ritalin. While Modafinil remains quite safe, long term usage can cause adverse effects.
2. Armodafinil
Armodafinil is another smart drug that has grown popular in the last decade. It is a more refined version of Modafinil with a cleaner overall effect and almost no side effects. It contains the active substance “R-enantiomer,” which makes Armodafinil a little bit different in its effects than Modafinil. Armodafinil is more focused on the focus-enhancing side of Modafinil, with less noticeable effects on energy levels, mindset or wakefulness.
Armodafinil is a more potent drug. Its recommended dose is 150 mg. The effects of Armodafinil last up to eight hours. This is a good reason why it does not disturb your sleeping pattern. Armodafinil is widely available online from pharmacies such as BuyXArmodafinil.org. The most popular brand, Waklert, is manufactured by Sun Pharmaceuticals in India.
3. Adderall
Adderall is the most famous state-sponsored drug that was initially used to treat narcolepsy and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). The drug is prescribed to kids and adults, and you cannot obtain it legally without a prescription. Adderall allows your brain to concentrate better on a single task. Also, it’s the most euphoric smart drug on the list, which may be why it has the highest potential for abuse on this list.
Nowadays, Adderall is used by college students to complete their assignments and prepare for examinations. Unfortunately, what many people don’t know is that Adderall also has major side-effects. The drug can even lead to symptoms of psychosis, and increase problems in the heart and blood circulation. Shortness of breath, lightheadedness, anxiety, panic, aggression, paranoia, chest pain, etc. are some of the common side effects of Adderall.
4. Ritalin
Ritalin promotes concentration and focus. It is primarily used to treat ADD (attention deficit disorder), ADHD, and narcolepsy. Ritalin is the trade name of Methylphenidate.
Ritalin is also used for improving cognitive function, although nowhere near as popular as Adderall from that point of view. Ritalin, just like other smart drugs, is not recommended for long term usage. It shares the same levels of adverse effects as other stimulants. Ritalin is classified as a Schedule II in the United States.
Ritalin’s effects are active within 30 to 40 minutes of consumption. Once absorbed, the drug provides long-lasting results. Office workers and college students also prefer an occasional dose of Ritalin when they have to cope up with the pressure of work. Long-term usage of Ritalin can cause problems such as heartburn, anxiety, chest pain, aggression, hypertension, etc.
5. Phenylpiracetam
It is a nootropic developed by chemically combining piracetam with phenyl. The resulting effect gives its stimulating properties. The drug was highly used by Russian Cosmonauts in space as an alternative to benzodiazepines which also inhibit focus and concentration. The government wanted cosmonauts to better handle the stressful environment of space and relax at the same time. Research indicates that a single dose of the substance “significantly enhanced memory function in a passive avoidance response test” in mammals.
The drug also increases one’s ability for physical endurance and adaptation to cold. People who experience loss in cognitive function can consume it because the substance can greatly key cognitive functions, even in the elderly. Phenylpiracetam also works in managing epilepsy in young adults.
Research also concludes that phenylpiracetam is effective in treating attention disorders, depression, improving memory and it can also be used as a smart drug for study and productivity purposes. A study also shows that 24 grams of daily use of phenylpiracetam has no side effects. However, some people can still experience anxiety, insomnia, paranoia, diarrhea, and agitation.
6. Noopept
N-Phenylacetyl-l-prolylglycine ethyl ester is one of the newer nootropics that was developed recently and is also part of the –racetam family. In layman’s terms, it is a popular smart drug that has relatively the same function as other drugs mentioned in this article. Noopept is a little milder in its function than others. It provides a controlled cognitive boost, which is more manageable if you are consistently taking it.
It also prevents people from forming a habit. It keeps side effects at bay, and you can practically incorporate it into your lifestyle. The Russian smart drug remains the most affordable alternative in the market. The most common side effects of Noopept experienced are mood swings, difficulty going to sleep and/or fatigue.
Smart drugs: are they worth the risk?
It all comes down to personal experience. Many people are quite comfortable with the use of smart drugs in their daily lives. I’ve read a cool story on Medium about a guy using Modafinil to further his creative ambitions. As a matter of fact, it remains the secret ingredient of many working professionals. When working conditions get tougher, people often resort to the use of smart drugs.
One crucial factor to consider here is the safe use of smart drugs. Prolonged use can increase adverse effects. Controlled usage is more practical and fits everyone. Smart drugs come with a considerable amount of controversy because some of them are not considered reasonable to use.
You must approach with caution when buying these drugs online. While buying online does not entail need of a prescription, you must still be wary of online sellers who may want to scam you. Research different forums and do a little research before you make an online purchase.
