Nootropics (Smart Drugs)

[twatteaser]

This Thread is for purposes soley of discussion only. I am not endorsing anything and speak from a pure research and curiosity background coming from a background of psychology and addictions. This area is very unresearched and by experimenting with these substances, YOU DO SO AT YOUR OWN RISK!



Nootropics comes from the Greek language literally meaning to turn the mind. The concept is to have a substance that invigorates the brain for better functioning. (e.g., Hudler). These nootropics substances also known as smart-drugs and cognitive enhancers can be either naturally occurring or synthetic in origin. Thus substances as diverse as pharmaceuticals to foods and herbs could fit under the umbrella of what is a smart-drug.

Dr. Giurgea first coined the word Nootropics in the nineteen-seventies. He wanted to make his definition exemplify five specific attributes for these smart-drugs to have. Nootropics must facilitate learning and memory, increased effiency in the cortical and sub cortical control mechanisms, posses very little toxicity and very few side effects, protect against physical and chemical injury, and resist conditions that disrupt the retention of what has been learned.

Thirty years of research later has left most people in the nootropics field to drop Dr. Giurgea’s definition entirely. The only thing kept by this revisionist view of nootropics has been the cognitive enhancing, low toxicity and side effects, and brain protecting features. Soon a broader and more inclusive criterion was enacted for the nootropics of today.

Smart-drugs act in a certain criteria that improve recall, retention of new information, alertness, better mood stability, concentration, organization, sexual desire, and intellectual performance. While not possessing all of these characteristics, the nootropics agent will have at least one if not multiples. This results in the smart-drug being taken usually for a self-perceived deficit in one or more of these areas. The taking of more than one nootropics in a cocktail of multiple cognitive enhancing agents has grown in popularity as availability and information has grown in recent bounds through recently published books and the Internet.

The rigors of daily life take a toll upon everyone in the form of stress. People devise various coping methods to deal with these stresses. Individuals may use productive outlets such as exercise or meditation to become an outlet for their stresses. Others may turn to other coping means such as alcohol, stimulants, depressants, or other drugs to ease these stressors in their lifestyle. Stress unchecked upon a person can lead to breakdowns of an individuals functioning by anxiety, depression, and neurosis. These stressors can chip away at one’s health, concentration, and emotional well-being. Smart-drugs work by correcting these conditions and also in the form of a preventative against future problems from recurring.

The idea of cognitive enhancement is nothing new. Smart-drugs in one form or another has existed since man first practiced medicine. Eastern medicines with its reliance on herbs such as ginseng show this concept has been around for many millennia. The term Nootropics was coined in the nineteen-seventies allowing a new definition to these accepted practices of ancient societies to be integrated with Western pharmaceutical agents capable of performing similar, if not more impressive feats and effects.

Smart-drugs of a pharmaceutical origin were made in the last fifty years to combat various brain traumas and age related problems that affected the human brain. Drugs manufactured to fight against senility, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s are prime examples of nootropics agents. Now those who are in good health to assist even more in their daily function in today stressful and demanding world take these drugs.

Smart-drugs are similarly used like other prescription drugs as in the hypertension drugs Rogaine and Propecia. These two drugs were found to also stimulate hair-growth in individuals losing their hair, so a side effect became desired and then marketed to combat another medical problem. Another medication called Cholestyramine, which was used to lower an individual’s cholesterol levels, had a side effect of constipation and now gets prescribed to combat gastro-intestinal disorders like ulcerative colitis and Irritable Bowel Syndrome. New avenues of pharmaceutical treatment are available with some of the older and more established drugs.

More information to follow this introductory part.

[twatteaser]

Seratonin Basics and Links Post #3

A Definition of Serotonin: Basics

Pronunciation: `seru'townin

Serotonin: a.k.a 5-HT (abreviation); 5-hydroxytryptamine; enteramine; thrombocytin; thrombotonin; vasostatin.
Definition: Serotonin is an indolamine neurotransmitter.

Structure: 3-(2-aminoethyl)-5-indolamine; C10H12N2O
Properties

Serotonin is a(n) indolamine monamine neurotransmitter

Serotonin is involved in:
depression and other affective disorders
migraine headache
obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
panic and other anxiety disorders
gastrointestinal function
vasoconstriction

Synthesis / Termination
Serotonin is synthesized from tryptophan which is first hydroxylated to 5-hydroxytryptophan by the rate-limiting enzyme tryptophan-5-hydroxylase. The intermediate is then decarboxylated by the nonspecific aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase to serotonin.
The action of serotonin in the synapse is terminated by diffusion and reuptake at selecteive sites
Most serotonin is degraded by monoamine oxidase through oxidative demamination. Some of the resultant motabolite may oxidized further by a non-specific aldehyde dehydrogenase. The metabolites are then excreted in the urine.
Drugs
Agonists
tryptophan - increasing dietary intake of tryptophan can increase serotonin concentrations.
selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) - increases action of serotonin by increasing synaptic concentration.

tricyclic anti-depressants non-selectively block monoamine reuptake sites and increases action of serotonin by increasing synaptic concentration.

Antagonists
cyprohepatadine
ergotamine
ketanserin
LSD
2-bromo-LSD
methylsergide
reserpine - causes depletion from vesicles

Some nice technical and not so technical links for the subject.

http://www.clusterheadaches.org/library/serotonin/

[twatteaser]

Serotonin for Dummies

Serotonin
Serotonin is the brain's "happy" neurotransmitter. It controls our pain threshold, our sleep patterns, our mental alertness, our desire for fatty foods, and our sense of well being. Low levels of serotonin can cause a disturbance of sleep, increased anxiety and irritability. It can cause loss of libido, lower the amount of pain we can tolerate, cause us to eat more fat, and make us feel generally lousy. Low serotonin levels are the classic and most obvious symptom of Depression.

[twatteaser]

Dopamine your pleasure chemical

DOPAMINE

Pronunciation: d'*pum`In

Definition: a chemical substance, a neurotransmitter, found in the brain that regulates movement, balance, and walking.

Definition: A hormone like substance with the chemical formula C8H11NO2. It is found in the nervous system as an important neurotransmitter, or substance which transmits nerve signals from neuron to neuron. It is also an intermediate in the productions of the hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine. Synonyms, 4-dihydroxyphenylethylamine

Dopamine is one of the catecholamine neurotransmitters in the brain. It is derived from tyrosine and is the precursor to NOREPINEPHRINE and EPINEPHRINE. Dopamine is a major transmitter in the extrapyramidal system of the brain, and important in regulating movement. A family of receptors mediate its action.

Dopamine for Complete Idiots

Dopamine is one of the most addictive chemicals around. You can't buy it on the street, though: it occurs naturally inside your brain. When something feels good—whether it's a drug, a gooey chocolate brownie, or a kiss from a sweetheart—dopamine plays a big role in creating that satisfying feeling that keeps you coming back for more.

Dopamine in the basil ganglia (in brains interior) show they are critical for executing smooth and controlled movements. Lack of dopamine is a cause of parkinson disease which a person looses the ability to initiate controlled movements. Dopamine moves into frontal lobe regulating flow of information coming in from other areas of the brain. Compromise in the flow of dopamine may cause disrupted or incoherent thought as in schizophrenia. In milder disorders, too much dopamine in the limbic system and not enough in the cortex may produce an overly suspicious personality giving to bouts of paranoia or may inhibit social interaction. A shortage of Dopamine in the frontal lobes may contribute to poor working memory. Dopamine is also thought to produce feelings of bliss (the pleasure chemical). More dopamine into the frontal lobe lessens pain and increases pleasure.

Dopamine puts the yummy feeling in you for your addiction of choice. Nothing better than a double hit of cigarettes after sex. Double your pleasure in all senses of the word.

[twatteaser]

Norepinephrine


pronounced nôr p- -n f r n

A substance, C8H11NO3, both a hormone and neurotransmitter, secreted by the adrenal medulla and the nerve endings of the sympathetic nervous system to cause vasoconstriction and increases in heart rate, blood pressure, and the sugar level of the blood. Also called noradrenaline, it is
a hormone, secreted by the medulla (inner portion) of the adrenal gland, which (together with epinephrine) brings about the changes in the body known as the "fight or flight" reaction (or "stress reaction"). Some of the actions of this hormone on various bodily systems include increased metabolism, increased blood pressure, incresed mental activity, increased blood flow to the muscles, and increased heart rate. These reactions prepare the individual to deal with perceived threats or stress by enhancing capabilities to fight or to flee

[twatteaser]

Epinephrine


Definition: a hormone, secreted by the medulla (inner portion) of the adrenal gland, which (together with norepinephrine) brings about the changes in the body known as the "fight or flight" reaction (or "stress reaction"). Some of the actions of this hormone on various bodily systems include increased metabolism, increased blood pressure, incresed mental activity, increased blood flow to the muscles, and increased heart rate. These reactions prepare the individual to deal with perceived threats or stress by enhancing capabilities to fight or to flee.
Also Known As: adrenaline


Natural Catecholamine with Alpha and beta activity
History
Medical case report in 1923 on intracardiac adrenaline
Shown to reverse "Acute heart paralysis"
Pathophysiology
Alpha Adrenergic Agonist Effects
Most important for Cardiac arrest
Vasoconstriction
Increases Systemic Vascular Resistance
Increases Systolic and Diastolic Blood Pressure
Increases Vital Organ Perfusion
Increases Myocardial perfusion
Increases Cerebral perfusion
Decreases Non-Vital Organ Perfusion
Decreases splanchnic and intestinal perfusion
Decreases renal perfusion
Decreases skin perfusion
Beta Adrenergic Agonist effects (Under 0.3 ug/kg/min)
Increases myocardial contractility
Increases Heart Rate
Relaxes bronchial smooth muscle (bronchodilation)
Epinephrine has a short half-life: ~2 minutes

[twatteaser]

NEUROTRANSMITTERS


Neurotransmitters are small molecules that are liberated by a presynaptic neuron into the synaptic cleft and cause a change in the postsynaptic membrane potential . This change can be either a direct depolarization or hyperpolarization, or the activation of second messengers that eventually lead to changes in firing rate. There are other molecules that act on the neuron and change its firing characteristics, but act from a distance and are not involved in synaptic transmission, and these are called neuromodulators. The same kind of molecule can act as a neurotransmitter or a neuromodulator, depending if its action is synaptic or long range.

Neurotransmitters act on receptors, which are transmembrane proteins that have an extracellular site that binds the neurotransmitter and suffers some conformational change. If the receptor happens to be an ion channel, it is said to be a direct gating receptor, and binding the neurotransmitter will either cause it to open or close. There is a second type of receptor which is coupled to intracellular second messenger cascades, but eventually some part of the cascade will affect an ion channel, and thus its membrane potential.

Neurotransmitters are synthesized in the cell body and are transported to the terminal synaptic buttons of the axon where they are encapsulated into vesicles and stay close to the synaptic region of the button. When an action potentialoccurs, an influx of calcium ions induces the vesicles to fuse with the presynaptic membrane and its contents are poured into the synaptic cleft.

Each neurotransmitter has a particular biosynthetic pathway, but can be divided into three principal classes, since they share some enzyme or metabolic pathway. The first class is made up of acetylcholine alone, the second class are the biogenic amines, that are molecules formed by an amino acid losing a hydroxyl or carboxyl group. The third class is made up of amino acids per se. There is also a specific chain of enzymatic reactions that decompose the transmitter, either for destruction or for recycling. This is important since a synaptic signal does not subdue until the transmitter is removed from the synaptic cleft. The transmitter can be degraded in the cleft, or absorbed by the postsynaptic neuron or a glial cell and the decomposed.

Neurotransmitters can act as inhibitory or excitatory signals to the postsynaptic cell, by hyperpolarizing or depolarizing its membrane, although the same molecule can function as an inhibitor or an excitator. This happens because there are a small number of neurotransmitters but a great variety of their receptors on different types of cells. Acetylcholine, for instance can act as an excitator when it binds to one type of receptor, and as an inhibitor when bound on another kind, even if both types of receptors are present in the same cell. The following is a list of several known and well studied neurotransmitters, although some others have been proposed, along with bioactive peptides, such as substance P and neuropeptide Y.
Neurotransmitter: Function: Synthesis by (enzymes):
Acetylcholine mostly excitatory Choline acetyltransferase
Bioactive amines:
Dopamine exitatory and inhibitory Tyrosine hydroxilase
Epinephrine exitatory Tyrosine hydroxilase and dopamine-b-hydroxilase
Norepinephrine exitatory Tyrosine hydroxilase and dopamine-b-hydroxilase
Serotonin exitatory Tryptophan hydroxilase
Amino acids:
Glutamate exitatory Metabolic amino acid
Glycine mostly inhibitory Metabolic amino acid
g-Aminobutiric acid (GABA) inhibitor Glutamate descarboxilase


__________________

[twatteaser]

Neurotransmitters and Neuroactive Peptides Post #38

A really sweet link will illustrations and all. Easily understood and everything you want for the layman.

http://faculty.washington.edu/chudler/chnt1.html

More links too.

http://www.indstate.edu/thcme/mwking/nerves.html

http://lessons.harveyproject.org/de...pses/xmtrs.html

http://rama.poly.edu/~marc/neurtrm.htm

http://www.pallidotomy.com/neurotransmitters.html

http://brain-food.info/neurotransmitters.html

http://www.brainmachines.com/body_n...ansmitters.html

http://retina.anatomy.upenn.edu/~la...ransmitter.html

http://dir.yahoo.com/Science/Biolog...rotransmitters/

[twatteaser]

Now that we have a good base of how stuff works in our head, we can look at the actual substances used both natural and synthetic in origin.


The person who turned me on to the idea of Nootropic substances said that this way a key article on why and how. Luckily for us it is here on Thunder's.

http://www.thundersplace.com/forum/...&threadid=14552

[twatteaser]

Deprenyl aka L-deprenyl and selegiline

Deprenyl used in the fight against Parkinson’s disease in the 1980s and 1990s as well as to treat drug-resistant forms of depression have seen benefits in using them for prevention and maintenance of the brain on healthy individuals. Deprenyl is a great example of a nootropics by its numerous benefits. Thus making it one of the most popular prescription drugs in the cognitive enhancement field. This drug is also known as L-deprenyl and selegiline and is one of the most widely researched nootropics for nearly forty years with over two hundred research papers on it.

Selegiline works by preserving the brain as a protector and a neuro-rescue agent in times of stress and injury while being an antidepressant and cognitive enhancement agent. It also increases lifespan of the user by twenty percent by not allowing dopamine to fade away in the aging process. Research has also proven that Selegiline is also a sexual rejuvenator by restoring desire in the subject.

Selegiline is not without side effects. It usually gives some form of gastro-intestinal problems in the form of nausea, heartburn, and upset stomach. Also seen are increased excitability, psychomotor agitation, irritability, and insomnia. These emotional side effects are usually remedied by ingesting magnesium and tryptophan or 5-HTP in a cocktail with the drug. A common occurrence is, which could be described as a desired side effect in some cases, is an increase of aggressiveness with this drug, which no other anti-depressant can match.

[twatteaser]

Piracetam

Piracetam, technically known as 2-oxo-pyrollidone, is one of the original nootropic drugs. Invented by UCB pharmaceuticals in Belgium in the late 1960s, it is the father of all cognitive enhancers. Used to treat alcohol dependence in both animals and humans as wells as senility and Alzheimer’s disease. The drug also works in aiding dyslexic children with reading comprehension. Piracetam is used to help those who suffer in comas, strokes, and head injuries through rehabilitation to near full or greater functioning. This drug has been thought to allow greater use and communication between both hemispheres of the brain in the corpus callosum.


Piracetam has very little side effects. Constipation was reported in one member of a test group. Anxiety, irritability, agitation, headache, and tremor have also been reported. These is due to the increased over stimulation of the mind. An identical remedy to a similar situation with deprenyl is needed, with magnesium or 5-HTP will resolve this. Mono Sodium Glutamate found in Chinese food can also agitate the condition as well as caffeine or other nootropics like L-deprenyl. The remedy is to reduce the amount taken until a balance is reached.

[twatteaser]

Hydergine

Hydergine is another nootropics substance that is made from the extracts of the ergoloid mescalyte fungus. Discovered during World War Two, by the late doctor Timothy Leary of LSD fame and is one of very few smart-drugs that have ever been approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the United States. It works by dilating the arteries of the user, which increases the supply of oxygen and glucose to the brain. This then acts as a catalyst allowing for an increase in cellular ATP and a dramatic resistance to hypoxia. Hydergine also works against fatigue, dizziness, vertigo, and tinnitus. It also has an effect on those who have had a stroke or Bell’s palsy by stimulating the nerve growth factor. This drug is conventionally used in Europe by an intravenous vector to revive drowning victims that were presumed dead.

The side effects for Hydergine are very few, making it a widely used nootropics. Cases of nausea, gastric disturbances, and bradycardia have been reported. By use of either a specially coated tablet or administration of this drug in a sublingual form, the stomach upset can be countered by these two means. People with low blood pressure or psychosis should avoid this substance also due to complications and interactions between the drug and these conditions.

[twatteaser]

Centrophenoxine, which is known as Lucidril, is another nootropics agent that is comprised of two separate parts, Dimethylaminoethanol also known as DMAE and parachlorophenoxyacetate alias pCPA. Simply put it is an acetlycholine precursor bonded with a plant growth hormone. The DMAE has a cleansing effect on Lipofuscin in the cells in the body. This biochemical gunk called Lipofuscin can make up to thirty percent of the cell volume in elderly animals making poor cellular health. Possessing low levels of Lipofuscin is beneficial for healthy cell function. Lucidril also helps promote the formation of neuronal RNA and protein production. This leads to the formation of memory and cell repair abilities.

Centrophenoxine has side effects when taken in excessive doses. They range from insomnia, restlessness, agitation, hyperexcitability, headache, and muscle tension manifested in the neck, jaw and shoulders. Those who should avoid this drug if they are expecting, suffer from major depression, manias, prone to seizure disorders, or suffer from Parkinson’s disease.

[twatteaser]

5-hydroxytryptophan which is also know as 5-HTP, is a less well known cousin to serotonian, both are important neurotransmitters in the brain. 5-HTP has the luxury of not being used to make proteins in the body, unlike its cousin 5-HT, and therefore doesn’t have other organs and systems competing for its chemical makeup. 5-HTP is processed more productively by the body and passes the blood-brain barrier much easier.Thus restoring serotonian levels in the human brain to a better balance for those lacking in it.

5-HTP also works by suppressing appetite and insomnia in the human body as well as being used as an adjutant therapy in both Down’s syndrome and Epilepsy. This nootropical substance also has been shown to help combat certain forms of depression, panic disorders, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. 5-HTP also increases the level of brain dopamine and noradrenaline in the patient. Synergistic effects have been noted when tyrosine, which is the amino-acid precursor for brain dopamine and noradrenaline, is added in conjunction for this chemical therapy of the patient.

5-HTP is not without side effects. These reactions are occasional upset of the gastrointestinal system, hypomania, and euphoria. This substance also increases the activity of tricyclic antidepressants, MAO inhibitor drugs, and SSRI drugs like Paxil, Zoloft, and Prozac.

[twatteaser]

Vasopressin is another smart-drug. The original purpose of this drug was used to combat the frequent urination and extreme thirst that occurs in those who suffer from diabetes. The main ingredient is a peptide hormone found normally in the brain. Its unapproved uses also work with individuals suffer from narcotic induced mental difficulties as well as a treatment for amnesia. It affects short-term memory in the user as well as with memory imprints after an event has recalled. It is now available in synthetic form called Desmopressin and marketed under the trade names of Desmospray and Minurin. A nasal inhaler usually in the form of two puffs taken by the user administers it. It can work almost instantaneously, but is usually taken approximately fifteen minutes before the needed time of concentration or memory.

Side effects for Vasopressin include nausea and headaches. Those who suffer from cardiovascular problems must take care with this drug. Large amounts of liquids taken in can dilute the salt level in the body as the drug reduces urination as it was originally intended.

[twatteaser]

Nimodipine is particularly recommended for victims of head trauma. Nimodipine (brand name Nimotop) is a calcium channel blocker specific to the central nervous system. It prevents movement of calcium into the cells of blood vessels, thereby relaxing the vessels and increasing the supply of blood and oxygen. It dramatically improves cerebral blood flow.

Nimodipine is an FDA-approved drug that is used to prevent and treat problems caused by a blood vessel around the brain that has burst. But nimodipine has been ignored by most neurologists treating victims of stroke and other age-related neurological diseases.

An article by Pantoni et al. (2000a) described a 26-week, multinational, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of nimodipine in patients with multi-infarct dementia. This study failed to show a significant effect of nimodipine on cognitive, social, or global assessments. However, a lower incidence of cerebrovascular and cardiac events was observed in the nimodipine-treated patients in comparison with the placebo group. A subgroup analysis found that those patients with subcortical vascular dementia performed better on the majority of neuropsychological tests and functional scales in comparison with patients on placebo (Pantoni et al. 2000b). A recommended dose of nimodipine is 30 mg, three times daily.

[twatteaser]

This was brought to my attention from a PM:

Alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine or Alpha-GPC is a cognition enhancer that has shown great promise. This has also been shown to cause the release of GH.

Effect of a new cognition enhancer, alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine, on scopolamine-induced amnesia and brain acetylcholine.

Lopez CM, Govoni S, Battaini F, Bergamaschi S, Longoni A, Giaroni C, Trabucchi M.

Institute of Pharmacological Sciences, University of Milan, Italy.

The present study investigates the effect of the administration of alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine (alpha-GPC) on scopolamine-induced amnesia and on brain acetylcholine (ACh) levels and release in rats. The results indicate that alpha-GPC, when administered orally, reverses the amnesia caused by scopolamine in passive avoidance. The peak effect is observed using 600 mg/kg IG, 5 h before training. The effect of the drug is long lasting (up 30 h) in accordance with its pharmacokinetic characteristics. Since, alpha-GPC administered IG is cleaved within the gut mucosal cells to glycerophosphate and free choline, it is tempting to speculate that this drug acts by increasing the ACh precursor pool. This view is supported also by the observation that alpha-GPC partially counteracts the decrease of brain ACh levels elicited by scopolamine administration. The effect is observed in the hippocampus and cortex, but not in the striatum. Moreover, in ex vivo experiments, alpha-GPC is able to increase the amount of ACh released by rat hippocampus slices following potassium stimulation.

PMID: 1662399 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

This link shows were it was taken from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/...9&dopt=Abstract

[twatteaser]

Ginkgo biloba:

Ginkgo is probably the most widely used herbal smart drug. Derived from one of the oldest trees on earth, Ginkgo biloba increases blood circulation in the brain, which in turn increases oxygen levels. Increased oxygen in the brain is associated with improvements in memory and alertness, as well as increased concentration levels. Robert Hass writes that gingko increases brain metabolism by enhancing the synthesis of ATP (an energy producing molecule) and improving the brain's power to metabolize glucose. According to Hass, it even helps prevent blood clotting in the arteries found in the brain. (Hass p. 19) Ginkgo is available in pill and liquid form at most health food stores. When purchasing Ginkgo, be sure that it is the standardized form of 24% flavoglycosides (the type that most scientific studies use in their tests).

[twatteaser]

Di-Methyl-Amino-Ethanol (DMAE) increases memory, learning and intelligence. It also acts as a pick-me-up without the jitteriness usually associated with caffeine. Naturally present in small amounts in the brain, DMAE affects the brain's levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in memory formation and thought processes. It is thought that low doses of DMAE should be used at first, with a gradual build up to 500 mg per day. If taken in doses higher than the body needs, DMAE can cause insomnia, headaches and muscle tension. DMAE is available in Health Food Stores in liquid and pill form. It should be stored in a cool dark place. Contraindications: Those who suffer from depression should not take DMAE.

[twatteaser]

Choline is a B Vitamin which, upon passing through the blood-brain barrier, is used to produce the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (defined above). As we age, our brain produces less acetylcholine, which causes memory and cognitive function suffer. In addition to replenishing a deficit of acetylcholine (Pelton p. 71), choline has also been shown to have a beneficial effect on healthy individuals. In one test, ten individuals with full brain function were given choline. The study found that the subjects experienced an increase in short term memory. (Pelton p.71) Doses of up to 2 grams (sometimes more) of choline may be taken daily. Contraindications: Those with ulcers, Parkinson's Disease and depression should not take Choline.

[twatteaser]

DHA is an Omega 3 fatty acid that functions as an essential component of brain tissue. It is essential for cerebral growth, especially during infancy and early childhood. As part of the aging process, synapses -- the linkages between brain cells -- harden and are damaged by free-radicals. This slows down neuron transmission which can result in impaired memory and cognition. DHA enhances the flexibility of these synapses in the brain needed for optimal nerve signal transmission. Adequate DHA levels are important for maintaining soft and functional synapses. Often vegetarians and those on low-fat diets do not receive an optimal amount of DHA. It is available in 100 mg pills in most health food stores.

[twatteaser]

Acetyl L Carnitine transports fats to the cell's mitochondria, where they are converted into energy. This helps reduce unnecessary fat deposits in the brain's nerve cells, increasing mental capabilities. Human studies have shown that Acetyl L Carnitine increases attention span and alertness in people with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of memory loss. A dose involving 2000 mg per day showed significant improvements in short term memory in people with Alzheimer's disease. (Dean p.81)

[twatteaser]

Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid found in membranes of brain cells. It is thought to increase neurotransmitter activities, dopamine release and acetylcholine release. Dean writes in Smart Drugs II: Thomas Crook and his colleagues did a study on 149 individuals who met their criteria for age-associated memory impairment. These people had no overt illnesses but showed signs of the memory loss that normally occurs with aging. Each individual was given either phosphatidyl serine (100 mg three times daily) or a placebo for 12 weeks. Those who took the phosphatidylserine improved on a series of tests designed to measure performance related to learning and memory tasks of daily life. (Dean p.75)

[twatteaser]

Ginseng is an herb that has been used in Chinese medicine for years to treat both fatigue and stress; it has now become very popular in the United States as well. Scientists often refer to ginseng as an adaptogen as it helps the body to adapt to different situations and states. There is much research that suggests that ginseng helps to improve mental performance while under stress. Stress depletes norepinephrine, which results in mental fatigue and loss of concentration. Ginseng is able to increase norepinepherine when the body is under stress. (Pelton p. 174) Many feel that the most effective form of this herb is in a 100 mg standardized extract of Korean Ginseng.

[twatteaser]

Originally posted by twatteaser
This was brought to my attention from a PM:

Alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine or Alpha-GPC is a cognition enhancer that has shown great promise. This has also been shown to cause the release of GH.

Effect of a new cognition enhancer, alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine, on scopolamine-induced amnesia and brain acetylcholine.

Lopez CM, Govoni S, Battaini F, Bergamaschi S, Longoni A, Giaroni C, Trabucchi M.

Institute of Pharmacological Sciences, University of Milan, Italy.

The present study investigates the effect of the administration of alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine (alpha-GPC) on scopolamine-induced amnesia and on brain acetylcholine (ACh) levels and release in rats. The results indicate that alpha-GPC, when administered orally, reverses the amnesia caused by scopolamine in passive avoidance. The peak effect is observed using 600 mg/kg IG, 5 h before training. The effect of the drug is long lasting (up 30 h) in accordance with its pharmacokinetic characteristics. Since, alpha-GPC administered IG is cleaved within the gut mucosal cells to glycerophosphate and free choline, it is tempting to speculate that this drug acts by increasing the ACh precursor pool. This view is supported also by the observation that alpha-GPC partially counteracts the decrease of brain ACh levels elicited by scopolamine administration. The effect is observed in the hippocampus and cortex, but not in the striatum. Moreover, in ex vivo experiments, alpha-GPC is able to increase the amount of ACh released by rat hippocampus slices following potassium stimulation.

PMID: 1662399 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

This link shows were it was taken from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/...9&dopt=Abstract

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1409797&dopt=Abstract

http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/lal_0153.shtml

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=8726961&dopt=Abstract

[twatteaser]

I yanked this off my mirror thread on Thunder's Place. An esttemed Doctor known as Luvdadus told me of another substance I had not encountered as of yet. So I would like to share it with all of you guys.

Originally posted by twatteaser
Luv,

Your schooling me all the time. That's a good thing. I found these dozen links on the substance that I never heard of. here they are. Looks like some potent ass shit for what you want.

bromocriptine

http://www.drugdigest.org/DD/DVH/Uses/0,3915,83%7CBromocriptine,00.html

http://www.bromocriptine.com/

http://www.cockatoo.com/bromocriptine/

http://www.qfac.com/bromo.html

http://www.apomorphine.org/bromocriptine2.htm

http://www.yohimbe.org/deprenylviagra.htm

http://www.biopsychiatry.com/bromopsych.htm

http://www.imbi.uni-freiburg****/cochrane/cochrane/revabstr/AB001203.htm

http://bnf.org/bnf/bnf/current/doc/41001i556.htm

http://www.holistic-online.com/Remedies/Parkinson/pd_bromocriptine.htm

http://smart-drugs.net/insert-bromocriptine.htm

http://www.smart-drugs.com/ias-Nicergoline-Bromocriptine.htm

[twatteaser]

quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Originally posted by luvdadus
twat,
You been busy. I'll need to read some to comment. I don't have time at the moment.
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Here is some of the links cut and pasted describing the effects you asked for:

Libido wonder drug
The new drug Dostinex (cabergoline by generic name) has the greatest potential for sexual enhancement since Viagra hit the market. However, its mode of action is completely different. Dostinex is a dopamine agonists, and it works by enhancing desire and orgasm, not just erections, as it is the case with Viagra. Our new domain Dostinex.net provides information on how to use the medication for sexual enhancement, and on how and where it can be obtained easily for prices as low as 80 cents per 0.5 mg, the standard dosage.

What is Bromocriptine? Bromocriptine by Lyle McDonald describes the problem of getting very lean and burning body fat, is keeping it off. Bromocriptine: Bromocriptine is an Old Drug with New Uses explains the physiological reasons behind dieting failures, along with discussing a potential fix. Although Bromocriptine is traditionally used to treat a number of different disease states such as hyperprolactinemia, Parkinson's disease and acromegaly, Bromocriptine is capable of doing so much more.
Bromocriptine explains how people over the millennia have tried to lose weight and burn body fat, only failing to achieve their goals. While it's been convenient to blame losing weight failures on a lack of willpower, burning body fat is turning out to be much more complicated than that. Bromocriptine reveales new research which finally explains the reasons and physiology behind dieting and burning body fat failures. It turns out that many of the problems are in your brain.

Bromocriptine Reveals:
The evolutionary reasons that your body makes it much harder to lose fat than to gain it.
Bromocriptine tells how the two primary hormones, insulin and leptin, that your body uses to monitor whether or not you're over- or under-eating and gaining or losing fat.
Bromocriptine states how those hormones change your brain chemistry and metabolism to derail your training and nutrition efforts; that is, how your brain is controlling most of the problems in the first place.
Why both fat and lean individuals have the same ultimate problem with dieting, even if the causes are completely different.
How the drug Bromocriptine, can fix it all, allowing you to 'trick' your body into thinking things are normal, even if they aren't.
How to use Bromocriptine for various goals including fat loss, muscle gains, diabetes treatment, and restarting your hormones after a steroid cycle.
About the potential benefits and risk of using Bromocriptine.
How bromocriptine might enhance sexual function and allow the complete deletion of fat cells once and for all.

As an 'exciting' bonus, you'll also get an Appendix addressing the failed attempt by Ergo Science to get FDA approval for Ergoset (tm), a special form of bromocriptine, for the treatment of Type II diabetes.
Yes, that's sarcasm, that section of the Bromocriptine book is dull as hell, but it's all there.!

Bromocriptine, a parkinson medication that enhances sexual functions
Bromocriptine is a well-established drug for two conditions, increased levels of the hormone prolactine and parkinsonism. The best-known brand name is Parlodel. Bromocriptine also has a sexuality enhancing effect, though it is not commonly sold for that purpose. Nevertheless, there is little doubt that in many people, bromocriptine will increase sexual response. The reason why the drug is not specifically sold as impotence or frigidity medication: a sufficient number of studies to achieve FDA approval for the specific purpose of sexual enhancement have not been conducted.
In view of the enormous marketing success of Pfizer's Viagra, many pharmaceutical companies may be tempted to distribute substances that could be proven to enhance sexual response.

The sexually enhancing effect of bromocriptine is very different from the effect of Viagra (generic name: sildenafil citrate). Viagra works primarily on the sexual organ, providing chemically for better rigidity, or some rigidity in the first place. Bromocriptine, on the other hand, primarily works on the brain, making a person more receptive for sexual stimulation and creating a frame of mind for more powerful orgasms. Both effects are a logical consequence of the way, bromocriptine is traditionally used… to lower levels of the hormone prolactin, and to increase levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine.

High levels of prolactin are generally associated with a decreased sex drive. So, by lowering levels of prolactine, especially when they are high, bromocriptine is regularly credited with increasing the interest in sex.
A similar effect is achieved by bromocriptine through the neurological route. Bromocriptine is used as a medication in parkinsonism because it will cause higher levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Parkinsonism is a disease caused by dopamine levels that are too low. Low dopamine levels normally also cause a loss of interest in sex, and an increased sex drive is a commonly known "side effect" of parkinsonism medications. (One person's side effect is another person's cure.)

Even amino acids that are used by the body in the production of the neurotransmitter dopamine, such as tyrosine and phenylalanine, are credited with causing an increased interest in sex, though the effects may not be as dramatic as those of sildenafil citrate (Viagra).
While the increase in sex drive caused by bromocriptine may be hard to measure, the effect on orgasms is more obvious. A considerable number of people who have tried bromocriptine have reported that orgasms become more powerful ironically because they are better controlled. There may be several almost-orgasms before the real orgasm happens, and the real orgasm may be accompanied by a histamine reaction which is more clearly felt (stuffed nose).
Obviously, we do not endorse this. However, even in countries where prescription drugs are indeed only sold on prescriptions, it is within a physician's discretion to prescribe a drug for conditions for which it has not originally been approved.

[twatteaser]

Nootropics do not pose a quick and easy fix for the taker. A user does not have the luxury of going to some street corner in the inner city for their latest supply like one can do for heroin and cocaine. Cognitive enhancement drugs don’t have a quick high like crack cocaine or even a quick onset to realize its effects. Very rarely hours after taking a nootropics agent will the user realize any affect. Most often it takes several days to weeks for a drug to be realized by the user. This delayed onset is similar to some popular drugs in the SSRI category like Prozac and Paxil. Only a few smart-drugs like Vasopressin, which was originally a diabetes insipidus drug, can be taken 15 minutes before recall is needed and has a working duration of but a few hours.

The vast majority of smart-drugs require a constant intake to work. At least one daily dose is required for the nootropics agents to work. Most often multiple doses are needed spaced evenly apart like every six to eight hours. Unlike steroids, a user does not cycle-off these drugs. If one stops ingesting these drugs, the effects usually fade away in approximately one month with a few exceptions like Deprenyl with its dopamine boosting powers start to recede at its normal rate.

[twatteaser]

The Food and Drug Administration of the United States doesn’t care for smart-drugs at all. Claiming that not enough objective research has been conducted for nootropics. These drugs with any long-term side effects from constant ingestion are completely unknown. The field of research doesn’t go back far enough to adequately document what has happened. The FDA cites that almost all of the research has been on animal models comprised of rats and monkies, with a lack of testing on humans. The FDA likes to point out that there are proven serious side effects with all these medicines as it is, let alone what long term ones may arise years from now.

Obtaining nootropics is done by several different means. Some substances like Ginseng or other herbs can be purchased in health food store outlets like GNC. The pharmaceutical smart-drugs are more difficult to get a hold of it. A sympathetic doctor can prescribe whatever drugs are available in the United States and you then take them for the unattended results you hope to get. This sympathetic figure is mostly seen with the elderly as opposed to the younger users. While some drugs unavailable in this country are obtainable in Mexico and Canada, even without the need for a prescription as they are sold over the counter. The last way is by a three-month exemption for personal use only to import the drug without a prescription into the United States. The exemption is granted for drugs not obtainable in the United States that can treat a serious medical condition that has no approved pharmaceutical remedy here in this country.

This has lead to the formation of offshore pharmacies that operate entirely off the Internet. These companies are mostly in Europe, operating from Scandinavia, the UK Channel Islands, and both Central and Eastern European countries. These companies air ship your nootropic substance right to your doorstep and it is all-legal due to the ninety-day supply rule. Unfortunately this had led to people profiteering on smart-drugs by buying an inventory far larger than a three-month supply and selling it for large profits back here. Both the FDA and the Postal Inspectors are no working to crack these smart-drug rings operating in America for its violation of federal law.

[twatteaser]

Nootropics require that the user be very literate and informed on these issues. Literacy refers to both the conventional ability to read as well as the ability to search the Internet for any and all information. This is to keep track of the latest research that finds its way to the nootropic taker. Interactions and newly observed side effects must be kept abreast of with the Nootropic lifestyle. People who regularly take these drugs must take care to notice any interactions with other nootropics, drugs, or foods that may cause serious health consequences. Books and websites substitute usually for medical supervision and become the gospel to the people of this lifestyle.

The nootropic industry is supported by thousands of web sites offering information and the actual product. Support networks like in the form of chat rooms specifically dedicated to the subject help guide those unfamiliar with the cognitive enhancing items. Internet giant Yahoo has its own fan run and moderated site entitled Smart Drugs. Monthly periodicals like the Smart Drugs Monthly feature reviews and experiences of those who have taken nootropics.

The FDA estimates that there are approximately 100,000 nootropic takers in the United States. With 10,000 individuals taking smart drinks comprised of amino acids to get a similar effect as smart-drugs. A sizable number of this group are elderly people who feel less sharp than they used to but are devoid of the standard mental impairments that follow that age. Baby boomers are one of the larger groups that take nootropics. They do so to reverse the aging process and its toll on their huge population. Drugs like Deprenyl, which combat Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, look very attractive to this aging population. College students are also a sizable population familiar with these type of cognitive agents. The students desire to squeeze more school into their busy schedule. The desire to take a magic pill and with little to no effort ace the mid-term is definite motivation for these high school and college students. Testing higher on exams and entrance tests is just what these kids believe the drugs will do for them. Plus the idea to prevent age related decline to a culture that worships its youth is very appealing.

[twatteaser]

The down side of smart-drugs.

Nootropics on the pharmaceutical level pose a possible hazard due to the large number of unknown variables. New foods, drugs, herbs, medical conditions, or other nootropics may interact with one another. Insufficient research on consequences for humans self-administering these drugs is just one of the problems. The chances that foreign made nootropics are contaminated or actually cut with something inert to try and defraud the unprotected buyer are some real possibilities.The high level of technical knowledge of brain and body chemistries needed to safely administer these drugs are lacking for the street corner cerebral alchemists of tomorrow. Anything the can possibly augment the brain and its function may also be able to impair these same workings. Most people are not educated enough to do modify their serotonian, dopamine, and noradrenaline levels by themselves.

Nootropics sounds very similar in potential to those that abuse prescription drugs like Viagra, Zoloft, Xanex, and Prozac. This desire to always be in prime condition sounds familiar to those who do stimulants as well as those who chase anxiety away with depressants. This life style drug is something with real addictive possibilities and may become a problem in drug counseling in the not to distant future.

[twatteaser]

Alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) has been shown to slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease in a controlled study. It also has shown to increase cognition (moderately) in aging women.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/...st_uids=9110909

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/...st_uids=9110909

[twatteaser]

"The men in the study with higher levels of bioavailable testosterone, the testosterone that can reach the brain, did significantly better on these cognitive tests than men with lower levels," said lead author Kristine Yaffe, MD, UCSF assistant professor of psychiatry, neurology and epidemiology and biostatistics, and chief of geriatric psychiatry at SFVAMC.


http://www.docguide.com/news/conten...5256B9D004AE02B

You guys knew I couldn't leave that one out!!!