Cognitive Enhancers

Cognitive Enhancers are drugs that some people use in an attempt to improve memory, increase mental alertness and concentration as well as boost energy levels and wakefulness. There are many different cognitive enhancers. Some are pharmaceutical drugs that are designed to treat conditions such as sleepiness or narcolepsy, and to improve attention and focus in people with attention disorders. However, some healthy people misuse these drugs in an attempt to improve their cognitive performance.

Common Names:

  • Nootropics
  • Smart Drugs
  • Brain Boosters
  • Memory Boosters
  • Neuroenhancers
  • Drive Drugs

False Claims & How do they Work?

False Claims

Claims that cognitive enhancers improve a healthy person’s cognitive processes and performance are weak whereas the side effects do pose health risks. While the cognitive enhancers may help mask fatigue, procrastination or boredom, they do not make people more intelligent and their effects only last as long as the drug remains in the body. Some of these drugs may cause dependence and have a range of side effects. They can be particularly harmful to young people as their brains continue to develop into their mid-twenties.

How do they work?

The research is still inconclusive on exactly how the drugs work to stimulate the mind, but early research indicates they may act on a variety of different systems within the body simultaneously. One explanation is that they may increase blood flow to the brain, which allows the brain to use more oxygen.

Some cognitive enhancers may raise the body’s adrenaline levels and produce effects similar to drinking large amounts of caffeine, which means people can stay awake for extended periods of time. Some drugs increase the amount of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) such as dopamine, which are released in the part of the brain associated with dependence.

Side Effects of
Cognitive Enhancers

There is no safe level of drug use. Use of any drug always carries risk.

The effects of taking Cognitive Enhancers with other drugs including over-the-counter or prescribed medications can be unpredictable and dangerous.

Using psycho-stimulant medications used as cognitive enhancers

Types of psycho-stimulant medications used as cognitive enhancers:

Methylphenidate, Lisdexamphetamine, Dexamfetamine

Brand names:

Ritalin®, Ritalin la®, Concerta®, Ritalin 10®, Dexamphetamine tablets®, Vyvanse®

Ritalin was introduced during the 1950s to treat chronic fatigue, depression, and psychosis associated with depression. It was used extensively in the 1990s to treat ADHD and is now the most common psychotropic medication prescribed to children to treat restlessness, impulsive behaviour and inattentiveness.

New research has explored the potential side effects of using Ritalin® by people without ADHD—such as students using it as a study enhancer. This research showed changes in brain chemistry associated with risk-taking behaviour, sleep disruption and other undesirable effects such as weight loss.

Side Effects of
Methylphenidate +

There is no safe level of drug use. Use of any drug always carries risk.

The effects of taking Cognitive Enhancers with other drugs including over-the-counter or prescribed medications can be unpredictable and dangerous.