Probable Nootropic-induced Psychiatric Adverse Effects: A Series of Four Cases

Conclusion Healthcare providers in general, and specifically those in the mental health and substance abuse fields, should keep in mind that nootropic use is an under recognized and evolving problem. Nootropic use should be considered in cases where there are sudden or unexplained exacerbations of psychiatric symptoms in patients who have been stable and medication adherent. It is also important to remember that most nootropics are not detected on standard drug toxicology screening tests. We have very little clinical information on how nootropics may interact with psychotropics (or other medications) and potentially cause adverse physical and psychiatric side effects. Finally, because nootropics are often obtained via loosely regulated sources, such as online vendors, it is possible that other psychoactive compounds are substituted for the advertised nootropics. Young adults, especially those with a history of mental health or substance use disorders, may be at particular risk of adverse effects from use of nootropics and should be educated about the potential for harm from misuse of nootropics. References 1. Nishizaki T, Matsuoka T, Nomura T, et al. A long-term, potentiation-like facilitation of hippocampal synaptic transmission induced by the nootropic nefiracetam. Brain Res. 1999;826:281–288. 2. Turner DC, Robbins TW, Clark L, et al. Cognitive enhancing effects of modafinil in healthy volunteers. Psychopharmacology. 2003;165(3):260–269. 3. Turner DC, Clark L, Dowson J,...
Source: Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience - Category: Neuroscience Authors: Tags: Case Series and Literature Review Current Issue Mental Disorders Psychiatry Psychopharmacology Substance Use Disorders Ampakines Armodafinil brain enhancer Cerebrolysin Citicoline cognitive enhancer homeopathic medicine natural r Source Type: research