What Are Nootropics?
“Nootropics” is a blanket term for drugs, herbs, dietary supplements, and other substances that enhance cognitive function. They are believed to be capable of increasing alertness, enhancing memory, boosting creativity, improving motivation, and increasing mental processing speed. There are tons of nootropics available, and drug manufacturing companies keep creating more every day because of the increasing demand. Engineers, computer programmers, college students, celebrities, and professionals from all walks of life use them to gain a competitive edge.
Some nootropic products are dietary supplements specifically formulated to enhance cognition. However, some others are prescription drugs originally approved to treat certain disorders but possess cognitive-enhancing benefits.
Alpha Brain and Mind Lab Pro are examples of supplements developed for cognitive enhancement. ArmodaXL, an armodafinil-based medicine, is a top example of a prescription drug that doubles down as a nootropic, or a “smart drug.” FDA only approved it for the treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness caused by 3 major sleep disorders: SWSD, narcolepsy, and obstructive sleep apnea. Nootropics can be both safe and effective, especially if they are used correctly. Consult your doctor before starting treatment with any.
How Do Nootropics Exactly Work for Energy?
On the surface level, cognitive enhancers work by flipping a switch in the brain, making users feel alert and energized even after long hours of exhaustive work or study. But a lot more happens in the background.
Dopamine and some other neurotransmitters in the brain influence energy levels, mood, motivation, and the wake-sleep cycle. An increase in the amount of these chemicals has been found to eliminate fatigue and motivate people to work harder, irrespective of how challenging a task might be [1][2]. Most nootropics work by setting the chemicals to levels biologically necessary for optimal performance.
It is worth noting that most nootropics only work for as long as they are used. However, this is not a good enough reason to abuse them. Do not take “smart drugs” in place of a proper sleep, as doing so in the long term may lead to serious negative effects. Seek guidance and supervision from your doctor while taking any healthcare product.
Will Brain Nootropics Keep You Awake Past 24 Hours?
Yes and no. It is important to understand that as there are several types of nootropics, are their benefits different? Some “smart drugs” can keep you awake any time from a few hours to 3–4 days. On the other hand, some other cognitive enhancers do not just promote wakefulness. For example, while nootropics such as lion’s mane mushroom, Rhodiola rosea, and Bacopa monnieri do not influence energy levels or promote wakefulness at all, nootropics such as caffeine and modafinil could keep you awake [3].
Caffeine can keep you alert and awake for 4 to 6 hours [4]. Modafinil can keep you awake for 12+ hours [5]. Armodafinil can keep you awake for 15+ hours, and some other nootropics may keep you awake past 24 hours [6]. Be sure to seek medical advice before taking any cognitive enhancer so your doctor can help you review it.
Can You Take Nootropics Every Day?
Yes, you can take nootropics every day, but it is best not to, especially if you are using prescription-type nootropics such as ModaXL and ArmodaXL. Although there is really no evidence that users may develop tolerance with frequent use, drugs aren’t just things you should use frequently unless it is absolutely necessary. This is not to mention that there is always the possibility of unknown long-term side effects. For example, some studies suggest that taking prescription nootropics for cognitive enhancement may cause impulsivity [7].
Some other possible side effects that can result from nootropic use include:
- Headache;
- Nausea;
- Upset stomach;
- Runny nose;
- Insomnia;
- Dizziness;
- Drowsiness.
More serious side effects can also occur due to an overdose of prescription nootropics. Some of them include ringing in one or both ears, hallucinations, depression, loss of vision in one or both eyes, and rashes. Seek urgent medical attention if you notice any of these adverse effects, as they can become life-threatening if left untreated.
Most professionals and “smart drug” enthusiasts who depend on such meds to increase productivity don’t use them frequently. Instead, they take them occasionally, like when they have to fight off jet lag after traveling across time zones or if they had a poor night’s sleep and need to get a lot of work done [8].
Conclusion
From promoting wakefulness to increasing alertness, enhancing memory, and increasing mental processing speed, nootropics provide varying benefits. However, their duration of action (how long they may keep you awake) depends on the type used. While the effects of caffeine and dietary supplements such as Alpha Brain and Mind Lab Pro typically last for 4 to 6 hours, those of prescription nootropics such as modafinil and armodafinil can last for 12+ hours. Always use “smart drugs” wisely and don’t overdose on them to avoid any complications.