Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)
What is ALCAR?
Acetyl-L-Carnitine is a popular multi-functional nutrient, amino acid type nootropic. It benefits the body and brain. A potent antioxidant and neuroprotectant, and a powerful energizing nootropic that promotes anti-aging and longevity.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine Benefits
- Enhances Brain Function and Stamina
- Provides Neuroprotection Against Brain Cell Death
- Restores Cognitive Function and Repairs Impairment
- Support Mitochondrial Function and Nervous System
- Regulates Sexual Infertility and Erectile Dysfunction
How to Take
Typical Acetyl-L-Carnitine dosage is 500 mg per day once in the morning, and up to 1,500 mg split into three doses of 500 mg. From there, adjust dosage to your need without exceeding 1,500 mg. At least not during trial period. It is water-soluble, therefore it can be taken with or without food. However, taking ALCAR late in the evening can result in disruption of sleep.
Adrafinil (Precursor of Modafinil)
What is Adrafinil?
Adrafinil is the pro-drug of Modafinil, and a stimulating nootropic that fights fatigue, increases the brain’s capacity of processing information, boosts energy, as well as enhances subjective well-being. It metabolizes in the body into the widely popular Modafinil (Adrafinil vs Modafinil comparison below). It’s a useful supplement for pulling through long, mentally demanding tasks, learning new topics, or working in shifts as opposed to fixed schedule.
Adrafinil Benefits
Increases Mental Clarity & Heightens Focus
Promotes Wakefulness & Boosts Energy
Improves Learning Capacity & Memory Formation
How To Take
Adrafinil dosage recommendations vary greatly among different users.For beginners, start with 300 mg per day and see how your body reacts to it. For a stronger dose, you may take 600 mg. Maximum allowance per day is 1,200 mg taken in two doses of 600 mg
Agmatine Sulfate
What is Agmatine Sulfate?
Agmatine is an amino acid that offers a wide of cognitive boosting benefits. It also has excellent effects on reducing neuropathic pain, as well as drug addiction habits. It is neuroprotectant and can reduce tolerance built to many medications like benzodiazepines, morphine, and other painkillers. It also synergizes with SSRI’s & cannabis.
Agmatine Sulfate Benefits
Reduces Pain Sensitivity
Reduces Symptoms of Anxiety & Depression
Neuroprotection & Longevity
Improves Weight Loss & Prevents Weight Gain
Supports Muscle Growth
Helps Erectile Dysfunction & Infertility
Help with Alzheimer’s Disease
Helps Alcohol & Morphine Withdrawal
How to Take
There is currently no standard dosage for agmatine sulfate because there haven’t been enough human studies for determination. These numbers are rough estimates to give an idea of typical, experimental dosing:
For treatment of neuropathic pain: 1,000 to 2,500 mg of agmatine (daily)
For improving cognitive function: 200 to 500 mg of agmatine (daily)
For vasodilation and enhanced recovery: 500 to 1000 mg of agmatine (30 minutes pre-workout)
Alpha-GPC
What is Alpha-GPC?
Alpha-GPC is a natural choline compound. It works on its own as a powerful memory booster. In combination with other nootropics, it works as a potentiator boosting cognitive capabilities. It’s also used as a mild stimulant to boost energy and power output when exercising. Furthermore, it promotes cell regeneration and acts as a neuroprotective agent, against cognitive decline.
Alpha-GPC Benefits
Improves Memory Formation and Recall
Neuroprotection and Development of New Brain Cells
Increases Energy and Speeds up Recovery
Increases Attention and Enhances Mood
How to Take
Alpha-GPC digests and absorbs smoothly and is gentle on the stomach taken at the typical dose of 300mg. Although many nootropists tend to prefer a dose of 600mg, with a total daily intake ranging from 300 to 1200 mg, either at once or split into two doses. Personally I find 300mg is effective enough especially because I almost always take it as part of a stack.If not Aniracetam then its Piracetam, Phenylpiracetam or Noopept.Frequently Asked Questions
Aniracetam
What is Aniracetam?
Aniracetam is a multipurpose nootropic that provides several benefits. It produces remarkable anxiolytic effects, thereby improving cognition and enhancing mood by ridding anxieties. It also sharpens focus, increases verbal fluency, information processing, as well as expands the brain’s capability of digesting and processing information. Furthermore it produces sense of clarity and well-being.
Aniracetam Benefits
Improves and Enhances Memory
Provides Neuroprotection and Promotes Longevity (Anti-Aging)
Heightens Focus and Concentration
Relieves Anxiety (Especially Social Anxiety)
Relieves Depression Symptoms
Improves Memory and Learning Capacity
Supports Management of Alzheimer’s Disease
Additional Benefits of Aniracetam
How to take
The best way I found personally was taking one dose (750mg) in the morning and it works the best for me. If necessary, I would take half a dose of noopept 10-15mg later in the day to boost the feeling, but never felt the need of taking more than 1 dose of Aniracetam per day. Some people find that splitting Aniracetam into 2 or 3 doses throughout the day works well for them, too. I was never bothered – it seems like too much of a hassle.But again, everyone has their ways and perfrences.
Ashwagandha KSM-66
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is an excellent herb in Ayurveda medicine. It has become a popular nootropic due to its numerous health benefits. It is able to eliminate stress and anxiety. Research suggest that it helps in improving depression symptoms.It also increases testosterone levels and significantly boosts sperm quality and fertility in men. Furthermore, it increases muscle mass, reduces body fat and increases strength.
Ashwagandha Benefits
Reduces Anxiety
Improves Depression Symptoms
Reduces Cortisol Levels
Improves Cognitive Function
Reduces Arthritis Symptoms
Reverses Deficits Pathology in Alzheimer’s Disease
Helps in Weight Loss and Management
Improves Muscle Strength
Treats Male Sexual Dysfunction
Decreases Blood Pressure
Combats Chemotherapy Fatigue
Rejuvenation and Overall Health Improvement
How to Take
Typically, Ashwagandha dose ranges between 300 mg to 600 mg as the highest. Its not advisable to take more than 600mg when using on daily basis. Take Ashwagandha with food and divide into two doses per day. If you prefer once a day, do so in the morning after breakfast.It is not-advisable to use Ashwagandha in combination with JK inhibitors or MAO inhibitors.
Bacopa Monnieri
What is Bacopa Monnieri?
Bacopa monnieri (also known as Brahmi) is one of the most acknowledged and widely respected nootropics. A traditional Ayurvedic medicine that has a good reputation of being a potent cognitive enhancer, stress and anxiety reliever, and brain protector. It improves memory formation and recall speed, it stimulates learning, enhances thought clarity, and increase brain function. It acts as a brain protectant, and studies confirm it as a potential remedy for dementia and similar conditions.Furthermore, it reduces anxiety and provides a feeling of calm and tranquility, all while eliminating stress. Users report it an excellent relaxant that improves sleep quality, leading to rejuvenating and refreshing rest.Its nootropic effects are comparable to those of Piracetam, one of the most popular smart drugs in the world. The supplement is produced from the plant extracts.
Bacopa Monnieri Benefits
Enhances Memory Formation
Improves Learning and Cognition
Reduces Anxiety and Stress
Neuroprotective and Promotes Longevity (Anti-Aging)
Reduces Symptoms of Depression
How To Take
The minimum effective dose of Bacopa Monnieri is 300mg, taken with food or fat source. Some people, myself included, find it more effective at a higher dosage.I take 300 to 600mg depending on the purpose, while people like Dave Asprey recommend a daily dose of 750mg. Frequently Asked Questions
Coluracetam
What is Coluracetam?
Coluracetam is a new member to the racetam family of nootropics. Early scientific trials confirm that it is beneficial in the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder as well as with Generalized Anxiety, in addition to its a bunch of nootropic value it offers.
Coluracetam Benefits
Improves Memory and Learning
Reduces Treatment-Resistant Depression
Reduces Anxiety
Promotes Neurogenesis
Helps with Schizophrenia
Enhances Eyesight
How to Take
Typically, the recommended starting dose is 20mg due to that being the manufactured one.There are claims that researchers testing coluracetam dosage of 240 mg per day are finding no side effects. However, the source link to that claim is broken. Frequently Asked Questions
L-Theanine
What is L-Theanine?
L-theanine is an amino acid often called the “natural xanax” due to its calming effects. It works by relaxing the body and brain without causing drowsiness, while reducing stress and increasing cognitive function.Due to not causing drowsiness, it is the perfect choice to combine with stimulants of any sort to take the edge off.
L-Theanine Benefits
Reduces Anxiety & Stress
Improves Memory, Attention, and Cognition
Enhances Sleep Quality
Promotes Longevity and Increases Lifespan
Reduces Symptoms of Depression
Promotes Relaxation without causing Drowsiness
Significantly Reduces Symptoms of Schizophrenia
Enhances Blood Flow and Stimulates Nitric Oxide Production
Reduces Negative Effects of Caffeine & Improves Cognitive Boosting Effects
Additional Benefits
How to Take
The effective l-theanine dose is 200mg. For optimal nootropic results, take l-theanine with caffeine (coffee or supplement, whatever suits you) at a 2:1 ratio. As a stack, it would be:
L-Theanine 200mg
Caffeine 100mg
For those interested, you can actually purchase a supplement pre-made that has 200 mg Theanine & 100 mg Caffeine pressed into one capsule. Frequently Asked Questions
N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT)
What is N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine? (NALT)
N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine, often abbreviated to NALT, is a more bioavailable form of L-Tyrosine, an amino acid that also has nootropic benefits. It improves mood, memory, and enhances cognitive abilities in many ways.It has great effects of reducing stress and maintaining mental performance during sleep deprivation.
What Are NALT Benefits
Enhances Cognition Under Stress
Improves Memory Under Pressure and Challenges
Increases Dopamine in the Brain and Boosts Cognitive Flexibility
Increases Focus and Supports ADHD Treatment
How To Take
The NALT dosage, however, is lower due to its higher bioavailability. With NALT, the typical daily dosage is 300 mg. Frequently Asked Questions
Sunifiram
What is Sunifiram? Sunifiram is an experimental, potent and powerful nootropic that enhances memory, expands learning capacity, and uplifts mood. A recent addition to the racetam family that seems more than promising.Sunifiram dosage is usually as small as 5 mg due to its potency. And it is yet to be approved anywhere in the world.
Sunifiram Benefits
Reduces Anxiety and Stress
Improves Symptoms of Depression
Enhances Mood and Boosts Energy
Improves Learning Skill and Memory Formation
Enhances Focus and Motivation
Enhances Visual Perception
Increases Libido
How to Take Sunifiram works effectively at a dosage of 5 to 10 mg – at a maximum of three times per day.This is the safe dose which is often taken sublingual for maximum efficacy and absorption.
Noopept
What is Noopept? Noopept is one of the most potent nootropics available. It boosts overall cognition with a slight psychostimulatory effect. Effects kick-in within minutes of consumption, making it a handy choice right when dealing with or getting to mentally-demanding tasks.
Noopept Benefits
Supports Memory and Learning
Neuroprotective and Promotes Longevity (Anti-Aging)
Increases Nerve Growth Factor and BDNF
Improves Association Between Left and Right Brain Hemispheres
How to Take
If you prefer to prolong the effect throughout the day, the recommended Noopept dosage would be to take it in three doses of 10mg, or two doses of 15mg, or just one dose of 30mg.
10 mg: divide into three doses throughout the day
15 mg: divide into two doses twice a day
30 mg: one dose per day
Side Effects These side effects of Noopepts are mostly occurring when higher doses are consumed:
Headache
Restlessness (or overstimulation)
Dizziness
Irritability
Some studies suggest that it magnifies the effects of stimulants such as amphetamines, so caution is advisable for individuals using ADHD medication.I can personally advise that as well. I’ve felt that sense of overstimulation in a couple different occasion when taking a 30 mg dose of Noopept shortly after taking my ADHD medication.I now find that a 15 mg dose works best for me whether once or twice per day. Frequently Asked Questions
Lion’s Mane Mushroom
What is Lion’s Mane Mushroom?
Lion’s Mane Mushroom has become one of nature’s most potent nootropic supplement for the brain.There is evidence that is can permanently enhance brain function as well as protect the brain and promote NGF and neurogenesis.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom Benefits
Enhances Memory and Brain Function
Promotes Nerve Growth Factor and Neuroprotection
Lion Mane Reduces Anxiety and Symptoms of Depression
Reduces Inflammation, Boosts Immunity, and Helps Digestion
Supports Heart and Circulatory System, and Prevents Strokes
Improves Mental Health and Overall Well-Being
How To Take
The lowest effective dosage is 500 mg and the limit per day is 3000 mg. However, higher doses don’t necessarily result in more benefits. A 1000 mg dosage once or twice a day is what I find the most beneficial for my needs.
Side Effects
There are barely any side effects that arise from taking Lion’s Mane. The most common side effect is an itchy skin which is likely due to the increase in Nerve Growth Factor.It most likely is the cause and could be a good sign that NGF levels are increasing. Frequently Asked Questions
Piracetam
What is Piracetam?
Piracetam is a designer nootropic made to enhance brain function.It’s the primary and original racetam out of all the ones out there today.Up to date, there has been 20 different derivatives of Piracetam, and counting. It’s a revolutionizing nootropic that improves memory and remarkably boosts cognitive function.
Piracetam Benefits
Improves Memory
Enhances Cognitive Function
Neuroprotective and Prevents Neurodegeneration
Increases Self-Awareness and Promotes Clarity of Thought
Reduces Anxiety, Stress, and Eases Depression
Improves Verbal Learning and Fluency in Dyslexics
Helps with Schizophrenia
How to Take
Typically, the Piracetam dosage for adults is between between 1,200 to 4,800 mg per day.The most effective Piracetam dose is 1,600 mg. It can be taken once per day, or up to three times per day, totaling a maximum of 4,800 mg per day.If new to Piracetam and taking it for the first time, start with 1,600 mg and wait and observe your reaction to it.Few hours later, you can choose whether you want to take another dose, or if one is enough for your needs.
Phenibut
What is Phenibut?
Phenibut is a a GABAergic nootropic that works on the GABA neurotransmitter distinctly reducing anxiety.It also decreases symptoms of depression, PTSD, improves sleep quality, and gives an overall feeling of ease and well-being.
Phenibut Benefits
Reduces Anxiety & Stress Levels
Increases Sociability
Promotes Sleep Quality
Reduces ADHD Symptoms
Prevents damage to neuronal cells under stress
Enhances Mood and Overall Sense of Ease
How to Take (Dosage) Start at the lowest effective dose and monitor your response to it, then adjust according to your needs.A dose of 250 mg is a good starting point for first-timers. Phenibut is a potent compound. Don’t take it more than twice per week because it builds tolerance quickly. Full doc and frequently asked questions
Fasoracetam
What is Fasoracetam? Fasoracetam is a newer addition to the racetam family.It’s a nootropic that helps in relieving anxiety, enhancing memory, and improving overall cognition.It’s reported to have the ability to enhance memory and cognition while relieving depression and anxiety.Additionally, it also has a potential for treating ADHD symptoms.
Fasoracetam Benefits
Improves Memory Cognition
Relieves Anxiety and Depression
Potential ADHD Treatment
Increases Creativity and Motivation
How to Take A 20 mg dose is a good starting point. Anecdotal reports testing 20mg and 60mg reported no notable difference.So more doesn’t necessarily mean more effective. Full docs and frequently asked questions
Phenylpiracetam
What is Phenylpiracetam? Phenylpiracetam is a potent and fast-acting racetam type nootropic.It enhances cognitive abilities and boosts physical strength, stamina, energy, as well as reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety.Being stimulatory, it is banned by the Olympics Anti-Doping committee to the participating athletes.
Phenylpiracetam Benefits
Improves Cognitive Function, Memory, and Attention
Reduces Anxiety and Depression
Boosts Energy and Increases Physical Mobility
Enhances Physical Performance
How to Take (Dosage)
Typical dose is 100mg for first timers. Take 100mg and see how you feel. After 30 minutes, you can decide if you want to take another 100mg or if it’s sufficient. Its not recommended to take more than 200mg, and tolerance to it builds quickly.If you get a headache from taking Phenylpiracetam, then you need to increase choline intake. That can be by eating eggs, for example, or using a choline supplement like
Alpha-GPC. Full docs and frequently asked questions