Sedative nootropics. Modern view on nootropics: a list of the best drugs with proven effectiveness

Modern life is full of daily stresses. Problems at work, quarrels in the family or depression - all this not only spoils the mood, but also causes irreparable damage to the brain.

An excess of stressful situations negatively affects memory, slows down thought processes and affects the central nervous system. To avoid these consequences, scientists have invented nootropic drugs. In this article, we will review the list of new generation nootropics and their mechanism of action.

What are nootropics?

Nootropics are psychotropic drugs. They have a positive effect on the functioning of the brain, increasing its resistance to stress. Nootropics strengthen memory, enhance intellectual abilities and stimulate the desire to learn new information.

The prototypes of modern medicines were invented more than half a century ago. At that time, nootropics had one positive property - improved memory. With the development of medicine, it was possible to obtain new generation nootropics that have a complex effect on brain function.

Nootropics are included in the pharmacological group of psychostimulants, but have a number of important advantages over classic psychostimulants:

do not have a negative impact on a person;
do not correct brain activity;
do not slow down the physical reaction;
do not have a hypnotic effect;
do not cause dependence.

The main action of nootropics is the normalization of the central nervous system. Also, drugs protect the brain from mental illness, prevent the formation of blood clots and hypoxia. Medicines of nootropic action are prescribed to patients with ischemia, poisoning or brain injury.

Nootropics are divided into 2 types:

Single-tasking. Drugs showing one positive effect - improving memory;
Multitasking. Means that have antihypoxic, sedative and muscle relaxant effects.

Leading experts in pharmacology are still developing in the field of nootropics. Every year they become more effective, and the list of possible side effects is constantly decreasing. The list of nootropic drugs is regularly updated, which indicates their high efficiency and importance in medicine.

How do brain nootropics work?

A group of nootropics actively affects the functionality of the brain. The substance stimulates its work, enhances memory functions and normalizes mental activity. Nootropics act as a link to improve the interaction of the two hemispheres. Experts say that regular use of nootropics slows down the aging process.

Neurometabolic cerebroprotectors have their roots in biogenetics. These drugs stimulate increased glucose excretion and ATP formation, strengthen the interaction of proteins and ribonucleic acid (two of the three key macromolecules in the body).

There are 4 main mechanisms of action of nootropic substances:

Membrane stabilizers. Regenerate cell membranes, their structure and properties;
Antioxidants. Neutralize oxidative processes in the human body;
Antihypoxants. Normalize the excretion of oxygen from the body, thereby increasing resistance to hypoxia;
Neuroprotectors. Protect brain neurons from damage.

The impact of nootropics is enhanced in conjunction with psychostimulants. Similar combinations are prescribed for people suffering from severe disorders.

Nootropics - list of drugs

We present to your attention the best nootropics of the latest generation, which are widely used in various fields of modern medicine.

Piracetam (Nootropil). The drug is available in tablets or injection ampoules. Piracetam improves metabolism in the central nervous system and has a positive effect on blood circulation in the brain. The tool is used for speech disorders, memory impairment, frequent dizziness and viral diseases of neurons.

Pramiracetam. The drug is available in tablet form. The mechanism of action is similar to vitamin B4. Strengthens the main functions of the brain: memory, speech, perception, concentration. Pramiracetam is not characterized as a sedative. A more effective result is achieved with course therapy (1-2 months).

Important! People suffering from kidney failure should consult a doctor before starting the course.

Vinpocetine (Neurovin). Available in the form of tablets or injection solutions. Helps improve cerebral circulation. The drug is especially popular in neurology and ophthalmology in the elimination of pathological diseases of the retina. It is also used for hearing loss.

It is recommended to use the remedy for 1 to 2 months, depending on the disease and the dynamics of its course. Cancellation of the drug should be done gradually, reducing the dosage during the week. As the condition improves, the injections are replaced with a tablet form.

Phenibut (Noobut). The product is produced in powder, capsule and tablet forms. The substance fights the lack of oxygen in nerve cells and the deterioration of memory. It has a positive effect on both the mental and physical condition of a person. Eliminates anxiety, relieves depression and normalizes sleep patterns.

Important! It is necessary to combine Phenibut with sleeping pills with increased care, since the drug enhances the effect of the latter.

Nootropic is prescribed for disorders of the nervous system and the decline of intellectual abilities. A course therapy lasting from 1 to 2 months is recommended.

Pantogam. A common nootropic drug used in pediatric medicine. Produced in the form of tablets. Suppresses excessive excitability and hyperactivity in children. The effect of the application appears within 2-3 weeks after the start of the course. Duration of treatment - up to 6 months, depending on the patient's condition.

Glycine. The drug is in the form of tablets, which has a pronounced sedative effect. Helps the body cope with stress by suppressing anxiety and irritation.

Phezam. A nootropic that normalizes blood circulation in the brain. It has a positive effect on the work of the central nervous system, promotes vasodilation. Slightly affects the auditory and visual organs. The tool effectively fights against dizziness, memory loss, the consequences of a stroke or encephalitis.

The composition of the drug includes a bunch of two other nootropics (Piracetam and Cinnarizine). This bundle enhances the antihypoxic effect and accelerates metabolism in nerve cells.

Conclusion

We answered the main question: "Nootropic agent: what is it and how does it work?". The use of nootropics is absolutely safe if you consult a doctor in advance. A wide range of medicines will allow you to point to the problem, which will significantly speed up the treatment process.

Modern medicine offers a wide range of different drugs for children. These include tools that are used in neurology. Often, with any deviations in the neurological development of the child, the doctor prescribes nootropic drugs. Are nootropic drugs safe for children and what effects will their intake entail, we will tell in the article.

What is a nootropic drug?

These drugs got their name from the merger of two Greek words noos - mind and tropos - direction. The main effect of these funds is to improve mental activity. In addition, nootropics help level neurological deficits and increase the endurance of nerve cells under extreme conditions (stress, hypoxia).

In scientific circles, it is believed that the difference between nootropics and other psychotropic drugs is the absence of such effects on the nervous system as stimulation and sedation (sedation). When taking these drugs, the bioelectrical activity of the brain does not change. The only drug that is an exception is Cortexin.

Another positive quality of drugs in this group is low toxicity and inability to disrupt blood circulation.

Mechanism of action and effects of nootropics

The basis of the pharmacological action of these drugs is their beneficial effect on metabolic processes in the brain:

They enhance the synthesis of high-energy phosphates (biological molecules that store and transfer energy), proteins, and some enzymes.
Nootropics stabilize the membranes (shells) of neurons that have been damaged.

The following effects that nootropic drugs can have can be distinguished:

Reducing the manifestations of asthenic syndrome (weakness, fatigue, drowsiness, decreased concentration, sleep disturbances);
Stimulation by some mental activity;
Fight against depression;
Have a moderate inhibitory effect on the nervous system;
Contribute to the resistance of brain cells (neurons) to oxygen deficiency;
Reducing the manifestations of epilepsy (moderate anticonvulsant effect);
Improvement of cerebral blood flow in vegetovascular dystonia;
Promotes the activation of cognitive activity;
Contribute to the adaptation of the body to changing environmental conditions;
Strengthening immunity and overall resilience.

These funds have positive effects only with their long-term use. Nootropic drugs for children with speech disorders and developmental disabilities should be used for at least 2 weeks in combination with other therapeutic measures.

Indications and contraindications for use

Like any drug, nootropic drugs have their own indications and contraindications, which must be taken into account by the doctor when prescribing these drugs.

Cerebral palsy;
Epilepsy;
Lagging behind in physical and mental development;
Speech disorders and delay in its development;
Sequelae of traumatic brain injury;
Perinatal damage to the nervous system of various origins;
Transferred neuroinfections;
Restlessness, disinhibition, attention deficit.

In addition to positive effects, nootropics can also have a negative impact if the child has the following contraindications to their use:

Violation of the kidneys;
Increased intracranial pressure;
Severe psychomotor agitation;
Pathology of the liver;
Individual intolerance to any component of the drug

When new generation nootropic drugs are prescribed, the list for children is limited precisely to contraindications to their use. The use of any medication should be agreed with the attending physician.

The Best Nootropics for Kids

The modern pharmaceutical market offers a large number of nootropic products. Such drugs are used in children of any age. Modern drugs are available in various dosage forms that are suitable for use even in the neonatal period.

Cortexin

Produced in the form of bottles with a ready-made solution. The route of administration is only injection (intramuscularly). Contains a complex of polypeptide fractions obtained from the brain of piglets and/or calves.

The mechanism of action of the drug is in such processes as:

Activation of neuropeptides (proteins that regulate the functioning of nerve cells) and factors that provide nutrition to the brain;
Optimization of the balance of inhibitory and excitatory substances in the brain;
inhibitory effect on the nervous system;
Decreased seizure activity;
Prevents the formation of free radicals.

More information about indications and contraindications, the method of administration can be found in a separate article on Cortexin.

encephabol

The drug is available in the form of a suspension and tablets. Can be used from the neonatal period (the first 28 days of life). The main effects of this drug are as follows:

Improves metabolic processes in brain cells;
Promotes the transmission of nerve impulses;
Stabilizes the structure of cell membranes, preventing the effects of free radicals (antioxidant action);
Reduces blood viscosity and improves blood flow;
Improves blood circulation in ischemic areas.

Violations of memory, thinking, fatigue, reduced concentration;
Delayed development of the psyche;
encephalopathy;
Conditions after suffering encephalitis (inflammation of brain tissue).

Encephabol is contraindicated in cases of:

Sensitivity to pyritinol (the main active ingredient);
Kidney disorders;
Severe liver damage;
Changes in peripheral blood tests;
Autoimmune diseases in the acute period;
myasthenia gravis;
Pemphigus.

The drug is prescribed in dosages depending on age. It is not recommended to take in the evening and at night. When using Encephabol in newborns with a risk of developing perinatal pathology, the duration of the course of treatment is 6 months, followed by repetition, if necessary, after 3 months.

Aminalon

The drug is produced and produced in tablet form. It is prescribed for children from 1 year. The main active ingredient of the drug is gamma-aminobutyric acid. The effects of the drug are expressed in the fact that it:

Restoration of metabolic processes in the brain;
Promotes the removal of toxic substances;
Improves memory and mental activity;
It has a mild stimulating effect on the psyche;
It has a positive effect on the restoration of movements and speech;
Stabilizes blood pressure.

In addition to the indications inherent in all nootropics, Aminalon is used for sleep disorders caused by increased pressure and motion sickness (seasickness, in land transport).

Of the contraindications, only hypersensitivity to the main component of the drug stands out.

Aminalon is dosed according to age. The daily dose is divided into 3 doses, before meals. The duration of treatment is from 2 weeks to 4 months.

Glutamic acid

This substance is produced in tablets. It is prescribed for children from infancy. Glutamic acid belongs to the group of non-essential amino acids. Actively participates in the metabolism and nutrition of the brain, protecting it from toxins and the effects of hypoxia.

Indications for use are:

Minor epileptic seizures;
Schizophrenia;
Cerebral palsy;
Mental exhaustion, insomnia;
Consequences of encephalitis and meningitis;
Consequences of birth trauma;
Polio;
Down's disease.

Glutamic acid is contraindicated in:

Damage to the kidneys and liver;
Anemia and oppression of bone hematopoiesis;
fever;
peptic ulcer;
Hypersensitivity to glutamic acid;
Obesity.

Of the side effects, allergic reactions, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, overexcitation can be observed. With prolonged use, anemia and a decrease in the level of leukocytes may occur, therefore, when taking this drug, blood tests should be monitored.

Semax

The only nootropic drug that comes in the form of nasal drops. Approved for use in children from 7 years. It is used in pediatrics in the complex treatment of minimal brain dysfunctions.

1-2 drops are prescribed in each nasal passage in the morning and afternoon. The course of treatment is a month. Contraindicated in the presence of seizures in history and in acute mental disorders.

Phenibut

The release form of this drug is tablets. Approved for use in children. Phenibut is prescribed strictly according to indications and in doses according to the age of the child.

The positive properties of the drug are expressed in such effects as:

Improvement of cerebral circulation;
Increased mental and physical performance;
Reducing headaches, sleep disturbances;
Decreased irritability, emotional lability;
Improving the condition with motor and speech disorders;
Improving memory, attention.

The main indications for its use are:

Asthenic syndrome and anxiety;
Neurosis and obsessive states;
stuttering, tics;
Urinary incontinence;
Prevention of motion sickness.

Phenibut is contraindicated only with individual sensitivity to the drug, and is also used with caution in diseases of the kidneys and stomach.

Nootropic drugs are widely used in pediatric practice. They have a wide range of positive effects on the functioning of the nervous system. At the same time, they are classified as low-toxic agents. An experienced neurologist will be able to choose an effective drug and prescribe the proper treatment regimen. Therefore, before using a nootropic, you should definitely consult a doctor.

Valentina Ignasheva, pediatrician, specially for the site

Useful video

Nowadays, new generation nootropic drugs are used to stimulate the brain and protect nervous reactions, the list of which is so impressive that it takes several pages. Basically, these are complex remedies consisting directly of a nootropic component and auxiliary substances that improve the nutrition of nerve cells - amino acids, vitamins,.

How do new nootropics differ from old ones?

People have been using nootropics for a long time and don't even know it. For example, the simplest nootropic - choline - is found in eggs, meat, fish and seafood. By eating food rich in animal protein, we stimulate the production of the hormone serotonin, which is not only responsible for the feeling of pleasure, but also has a beneficial effect on neural connections. The brain begins to work more actively, memory and thought processes improve. The simplest nootropics also include coffee, green tea, nicotine, amphetamines. These are the so-called stimulants of brain activity. The well-known vitamin B6 and Glycine tablets also belong to this type of remedy, they improve metabolic processes in the spinal cord and brain.

In the middle of the 20th century, there was a strong leap forward in the field of studying the work of the brain. The following types of nootropic drugs have been developed, studied and classified:

reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitors;
vasodilators and metabolic enhancers;
stimulants;
racetams.

There is another classification based on the origin of the main active substance and its functions, but it is quite complex and confusing, and therefore only of interest to physicians. In addition, racetams are mainly used in therapy today. This is the basis of new generation nootropic drugs. Racetams are chemical structures derived from pyrrolidine. Here is a short list of the most popular drugs in this category:

Piracetam;
Oxiracetam;
Etiracetam;
Aniracetam;
Pramiracetam;
Nebracetam;
Nefiracetam;
Isacetam;
detiracetam;
Dipracetam and others.

Unlike natural stimulants, these drugs have a very precise effect on certain areas of the brain, which allows them to be used not only to improve memory and intelligence, but also in the treatment of strokes, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. These are the most effective nootropic drugs.

Latest Nootropics

Since the latest products are combined, they combine new generation racetams and excipients. Such modern nootropic drugs are very popular, such as:

Diapiram;
Orocetam;
Yukamen;
Thiocetam;
Apik;
Binotropil.

Most often, patients who have had a stroke are prescribed Phezam. This medicine is a combination of piracetam and cinnarizine. This antihistamine improves blood circulation in the brain and strengthens the walls of even the smallest blood vessels. Many consider it the best nootropic drug. We agree with this statement, but we want to note that other means have shown themselves very well. In addition, almost all nootropic drugs have few contraindications and side effects, which greatly facilitates the appointment and use.

It is better for elderly patients to give preference to the latest combination drugs. But young people seeking to improve brain function can buy any racetam and supplement it with regular exercise and proper nutrition. The effect will be no worse, since the body reacts to moderate physical activity with the release of serotonin and other hormones that have a beneficial effect on neural connections and the nervous system as a whole.

The modern rhythm of life is easily unsettling. Large loads at work, study negatively affect the state of the nervous system. To improve performance, there are special drugs that stimulate the human body and increase productivity. Nootropic drugs have been created for people who have had traumatic brain injury and stroke. But, often, they are prescribed to healthy people to improve brain function and relieve stress on the nervous system. We have compiled a rating of the best new generation nootropics that deserve respect and trust. .

The best nootropic drugs without additional effects

Nootropil is the best new generation nootropic drug, which is most often prescribed to patients experiencing memory problems. It stimulates certain parts of the brain and improves its activity. Nootropil is sold both in tablets and in solution for intravenous administration. Doctors recommend the use of a nootropic drug, not only for medical reasons, but also as a preventive measure, especially in those moments when the level of stress is very high. It does not dilate blood vessels, which is very good for teenagers and students who plan to improve brain activity during exams.

Pros:

Can be used for increased mental stress. For example, during exams, when stress and brain activity have the maximum effect on the nervous system;
Protects brain cells from hypoxia;
Can be given to students
Reduces stress levels, increases concentration and attention levels.

Minuses:

Do not apply to people with renal insufficiency and after a cerebral hemorrhage;
Improvements begin to be felt only after two weeks of use.

Speaking in official language, Cavinton (Vinpocetine) is in the category of drugs that improve blood circulation in the brain. But in terms of its chemical composition, it is also one of the best new generation nootropics. The medicine can be used for a wide range of diseases, as well as in preventive measures to increase brain activity.

Pros:

Reduces stress levels and improves brain activity;
Can be used to improve concentration:
Sold in tablets and liquid form.

Minuses:

For older people with heart rhythm disturbances, it is not recommended.

Pantogam is the best new generation nootropic drug developed on the basis of herbs. It has a positive effect on brain activity, improves thought processes and allows you to concentrate. The manufacturer claims that Pantogam is suitable even for children, especially schoolchildren during the exams. Doctors also recommend this nootropic for people who are under stress and at the level of nervous exhaustion.

Pros:

Effective drug;
Suitable for children;
Based on herbs.

Minuses:

Do not use for kidney problems, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers.

The best new generation nootropic Semax will appeal to customers who do not like to swallow pills, and even more so, inject the drug intravenously. It is instilled into the nose and acts on proteins that interact with the nervous system. The drug begins to act immediately, immediately after the introduction, an improvement in concentration is felt and the level of stress decreases. Semax is the best nootropic drug developed according to the most modern requirements.

Pros:

Convenient input method;
Effective for 24 hours after a single injection.

Minuses:

It should not be used during pregnancy and lactation, and is not recommended for people suffering from acute psychosis.