Nootropic

Nootropics (noʊ.əˈtroʊpᵻks or noʊ.əˈtrɒpᵻks ) (colloquial: brain supplements, smart drugs and cognitive enhancers) are numerous natural, semi-synthetic and synthetic molecules that claim to improve cognitive functions (such as executive functions, attention, memory, creativity). While often found in the form of dietary supplements, nutraceuticals and energy drinks, some nootropic molecules can also be found as prescription and non-prescription pharmaceutical drugs in various countries. The term nootropic is derived . The first documented use of "nootropic" in reference to substances purported to increase cognitive functions was by Cornelius E. Giurgea in 1972/1973. While the term is used in clinical and scientific contexts, there is currently no uniform or standard approach for categorizing nootropic substances and compounds. In the United States, Nootropics are often advertised with unproven claims of effectiveness for improving cognition. Manufacturers' marketing claims for dietary supplements are usually not formally tested and verified by independent entities. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warned manufacturers and consumers in 2019 about possible advertising fraud and marketing scams concerning nootropic supplement products. The FDA and FTC stated that some nootropic products had not been approved as a drug effective for any medical purpose, were not proven to be safe, and were illegally marketed in the United States under violation of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. In 2018 in the United States, some nootropic supplements were identified as having misleading ingredients and illegal marketing. In 2019, the FDA and FTC warned manufacturers and consumers about possible advertising fraud and marketing scams concerning nootropic supplements. Over the years 2010 to 2019, the FDA warned numerous supplement manufacturers about the illegal status of their products as unapproved drugs with no proven safety or efficacy at the doses listed on the products, together with misleading marketing.