What pills are there to improve brain activity and memory?

Brain training

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Once again, I’ll make a reservation: nootropics themselves will not make you smarter and will not save you from a failed session. It would be quite strange to expect that some pills will modify your intelligence if you do not put effort into it and do not distribute the mental load more or less rationally.

It is still impossible to fully understand how exactly nootropics work, and in what cases they can be recommended to healthy people to improve cognitive activity. I’m afraid that this won’t be possible, even if you first pump yourself up with some modafinil or pramiracetam and immerse yourself in reading literature on the topic for a year or two.

According to the results of an informal survey conducted on the website of the journal Nature in 2008, of the 1400 scientists who took part in it, about 20% use certain nootropics.

Let's start with the fact that this class of drugs includes drugs with a wide variety of pharmacological properties and effects. In the most general sense, nootropics are drugs that “have a direct activating effect on learning, improve memory and mental activity, and increase the brain’s resistance to aggressive environmental influences” (WHO definition).

They operate as follows:

• Stimulate cerebral circulation;
• They improve the supply and absorption of glucose (it penetrates more easily through the blood-brain barrier between the circulatory and nervous systems, and the brain does not lack energy);
• Prevents hypoxia (oxygen starvation) of the brain;
• Improve interaction between the prefrontal cortex and other areas of the brain, accelerate the exchange of information between its hemispheres;
• They stimulate cognitive functions, processing and memorization of information, influencing the production of certain neurotransmitters, with the help of which neurons exchange their “messages”.

The nootropic effect lies in maintaining the functional duties of the central nervous system. This result is necessary to:

• increase brain activity;
• remember more information;
• have limitless speech skills.

This effect is observed due to:

• establishing metabolism in the brain cells of the nervous system;
• with the help of metabolic processes in tissue cells during respiration;
• stimulation of oxidative and reduction reactions;
• rapid increase in biosynthesis turnover in the brain.

Nootropic effects promote the functionality of the entire body:

• a change in blood flow to the cerebral vessels, which contributes to their better nutrition and oxygen enrichment;
• has a beneficial effect on the human mind;
• reduction of pronounced inhibition of brain cells;
• less manifested passivity;
• enhancing brain performance;
• for brain activity in older people;
• to strengthen attention and memory.

In addition to the fact that nootropic drugs for improving memory affect the restorative functions of the brain, they also affect the nervous system:

• have a calming effect;
• irritability of the nervous system decreases;
• antiepileptic effects;
• the level of human excitability decreases;
• has a beneficial effect on the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Nootropic drugs have low toxicity to the body, so they practically do not provoke third-party reactions. This group of drugs for improving brain activity and memory gets along with all medications of pharmacological medicinal groups.

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

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

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

• Reducing the manifestations of asthenic syndrome (weakness, increased fatigue, drowsiness, decreased concentration, sleep disturbances);
• Stimulation by some mental activity;
• Fighting depression;
• Have a moderate inhibitory effect on the nervous system;
• Promote the resistance of brain cells (neurons) to oxygen deficiency;
• Reducing the manifestations of epilepsy (moderate anticonvulsant effect);
• Improving cerebral blood flow in vegetative-vascular dystonia;
• Promotes activation of cognitive activity;
• Promote the body’s adaptation to changing environmental conditions;
• Strengthening immunity and general resistance.

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

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

Conditions for which the use of nootropics in children is indicated:

• Cerebral palsy;
• Epilepsy;
• Retarded physical and mental development;
• Speech disorders and delayed development;
• Consequences of traumatic brain injuries;
• Perinatal damage to the nervous system of various origins;
• Past neuroinfections;
• Restlessness, disinhibition, attention deficit.

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

• Impaired kidney function;
• Increased intracranial pressure;
• Severe psychomotor agitation;
• Liver pathology;
• Individual intolerance to any component of the drug

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

The modern pharmaceutical market offers a large number of drugs with nootropic effects. 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

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

The mechanism of action of the drug consists of processes such as:

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

You can read more about indications and contraindications and the method of administration in a separate article dedicated to Cortexin.

Encephabol

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

1. Improves metabolic processes in brain cells;
2. Promotes the transmission of nerve impulses;
3. Stabilizes the structure of cell membranes, preventing the effects of free radicals (antioxidant effect);
4. Reduces blood viscosity and improves blood flow;
5. Improves blood supply in ischemic areas.

Indications for use are:

• Impaired memory, thinking, fatigue, decreased concentration;
• Delayed mental development;
• Encephalopathy;
• Conditions after encephalitis (inflammation of brain tissue).

Encephabol is contraindicated in the following cases:

• Sensitivity to pyritinol (main active ingredient);
• Kidney dysfunction;
• Severe liver damage;
• Changes in peripheral blood tests;
• Autoimmune diseases in the acute period;
• Myasthenia;
• Pemphigusa.

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

Aminalon

The drug is produced and released in tablet form. Prescribed to children from 1 year. The main active ingredient of the drug is gamma-aminobutyric acid. The effects of the drug are that it:

• Restoration of metabolic processes in the brain;
• Helps remove toxic substances;
• Improves memory and mental activity;
• Has a mild stimulating effect on the psyche;
• Positively affects 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 blood pressure and motion sickness (motion sickness, in land transport).

The only contraindications include hypersensitivity to the main component of the drug.

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

Glutamic acid

This substance is available in tablets. Prescribed to 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.

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

Taking glutamic acid is contraindicated for:

• Damage to the kidneys and liver;
• Anemia and inhibition of bone hematopoiesis;
• Fever;
• Peptic ulcer;
• Hypersensitivity to glutamic acid;
• Obesity.

Side effects may include allergic reactions, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and overexcitement. With long-term use, anemia and a decrease in white blood cell levels may occur, so blood tests should be monitored while taking this drug.

Semax

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

Types of drugs to improve brain activity

1. Vasodilators (Piracetam, Glycine) - expand the lumen of blood vessels, saturate cells with nutrients.
2. Nootropics (Actovegin, Phenotropil) - enhance mental abilities, stimulate the metabolism of the nervous tissue of the brain, increase its resistance to oxygen deficiency.
3. Anticoagulants (Curantil, Trental) - accelerate blood flow and reduce its viscosity.
4. Herbal remedies (Brainton, Ginkoum) - preparations for improving memory strengthen the body, stimulate the functioning of the nervous system and brain.
5. Amino acids and vitamins (Fish oil, Lecithin) – replenish the deficiency of essential substances to increase concentration.

Piracetam

The active substance is piracetam, as well as additional components: povidone, magnesium carbonate, calcium, starch.

Piracetam has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, activates blood microcirculation, restores the elasticity of red blood cells, and accelerates metabolic processes in the brain. Under the influence of the drug, signs of oxygen starvation disappear and connections between the hemispheres of the brain are established. The greatest effect can be obtained from the drug with long-term use.

It is good to use during heavy mental stress, for example, while studying or taking exams. It is also recommended to increase endurance during severe physical overload.

Ginkgo Biloba preparations

Products based on the ginkgo biloba plant contain flavonoids and neuroactive elements, due to which they have antioxidant activity, enhance energy metabolism in the brain, increase blood circulation, and reduce swelling.

Ginkgo Biloba (Bilobil, Vitrum memory, Gingium, Memoplant, Tanakan) . The active ingredient is ginkgo biloba leaf extract. Available in capsules and tablets of 40-60 milligrams. The daily dose is 120 milligrams. Side effects: headache, allergic rash, dyspepsia (stomach dysfunction). There are known cases of hemorrhage (intracranial hemorrhage).

Contraindications: acute cerebrovascular accidents, peptic ulcer of the stomach or intestines, high blood pressure, pregnancy, lactation, age under 18 years, individual hypersensitivity.

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Indications and contraindications

Prescription of tablets to improve memory is usually indicated for the following conditions:

• decreased mental performance;
• depression and disorders in aggravated form;
• forgetfulness;
• constant weakness;
• sleep problems;
• feelings of anxiety and fear;
• excessive nervous excitement;
• emotional stress;
• memory problems in old age and others.

Despite their effectiveness, drugs for improving memory and brain function may have contraindications:

• excessive sensitivity to substances in the composition;
• renal failure;
• hemorrhagic stroke;
• some are contraindicated for children.

Pregnant and nursing mothers are not recommended to use this group of drugs.

Cerebral vasodilators

They have various mechanisms of nootropic effects, improving cerebral circulation.

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Vinpocetine (Cavinton, Telektol)

The active ingredient is vinpocetine.

Release form: 5 milligram tablets.

Prescribe 1-2 tablets 3 times a day for 2 months.

Side effects: decreased blood pressure, tachycardia.

Contraindications: heart rhythm disturbances, coronary heart disease, hemorrhagic stroke in the acute stage, pregnancy, lactation.

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Instenon

The active ingredients are hexobendine, etamivan and etophylline.

Release form: tablets and solution for intravenous administration.

Prescribe 1-2 tablets 3 times a day for 6 weeks.

Side effects: tachycardia, decreased blood pressure, headaches, heart pain, facial flushing.

Contraindications: severe agitation, epilepsy, increased intracranial pressure, cerebral hemorrhage.

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Nicergoline (Sermion)

The active ingredient is nicergoline.

Release form: tablets and powder in injection ampoules.

Use orally 5-10 milligrams 3 times a day for 3 or more months, intramuscularly - 2-4 milligrams 2 times a day.

Side effects: dizziness, fainting, decreased blood pressure, anxiety, nausea, decreased appetite, urticaria.

Contraindications: arterial hypotension, myocardial infarction, acute bleeding, pregnancy, lactation, age under 18 years. In case of renal failure and in old age, take with caution.

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Cavinton

The drug consists of vinpocetine, which is obtained from the medicinal plant – Lesser periwinkle. The tablets also additionally contain silicon dioxide, lactose, and starch. Ampoules can be of different capacities; in addition to vinpocetine, they may contain ascorbic and tartaric acid, water, and sodium metabisulfite.

The drug is valued for its positive effect on mental activity, memory, and also helps improve the absorption of nutrients into nerve cells. Used in the treatment of traumatic brain injuries and encephalopathy.

The drug is included in the complex treatment of hearing loss in children. Cavinton increases blood supply to nerve tissue and prevents the occurrence of spasms in the brain, for this reason it has a positive effect on vascular lesions of the auricles.

Cavinton is used only after a doctor's prescription, especially in childhood. Moreover, the doctor prescribes the course of treatment and dosage individually, based on the type and form of the disease. When taking the drug, there is an increase in appetite and a feeling of constant hunger.

Memory tablets for adults

The use of tablets to improve brain activity in adults is necessary to eliminate the following problems:

• high psycho-emotional stress and regular stressful situations;
• with vegetative-vascular dystonia;
• in case of mental impairment;
• for neuroses accompanied by irritability;
• after suffering traumatic brain injuries;
• for problems with remembering information.

For adults, I often prescribe the following medications to improve memory and brain function:

• Picamilon;
• Phenotropil;
• Nootropil;
• Piracetam.

Drugs to improve brain function will be discussed in more detail below.

Products

Improving memory and attention can be achieved without the use of medication. Dietary nutrition will come to the rescue.

Products that help improve memory include:

• baked potato;
• apples;
• stewed carrots;
• fermented milk products;
• chocolate products;
• olive oil;
• bananas, dried apricots;
• sunflower seeds, pistachio and walnuts;
• spinach, salad greens, horseradish root;
• meat dishes;
• blueberries.

Useful foods to improve memory

Encephabol

The product is available in the form of tablets and suspension. The active component is pyritinol, and also contains silicon dioxide, lactose, and the syrup contains flavoring additives.

Action of Encephabol:

• improves glucose uptake by nerve cells;
• activates metabolism and rids cells of toxins and other harmful substances;
• helps stabilize the structure of neuronal cell membranes;
• improves the synthesis of acids vital for the functioning of the nervous system;
• makes it difficult to form free radicals that are harmful to cell membranes.

The medicine can be taken by babies even from the first days of birth. Pediatricians prescribe the drug to children with delayed mental and mental development; it helps well with fatigue, frequent headaches, sleep disorders, and vegetative-vascular dystonia.

Antioxidants and membrane protectors

Aimed at combating free radicals that damage the neuron membrane.

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Divaza

Active ingredients: antibodies to brain-specific protein S-100, antibodies to endothelial NO synthase. Available in tablets.

Take 1 tablet 3 times a day (in rare cases - up to 6 tablets per day) for 2-6 months. Side effects: allergic rash.

Contraindications: pregnancy, lactation, childhood, individual intolerance.

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Meclofenoxate (Acefen, Centrophenoxine, Cerutil)

The active ingredient is meclofenoxate hydrochloride.

Release form: tablets, substance-powder.

The daily dose is divided into 3 doses and is 250-1500 milligrams for adults; for children, doses are reduced and calculated according to body weight.

Side effects: dry mouth, nausea, heartburn, drowsiness.

Contraindications: anxiety and agitation, pregnancy, lactation.

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Mexidol

The active ingredient is ethylmethylhydroxypyridine succinate.

Available in tablets and solution in ampoules.

Tablets are taken orally at 125-250 milligrams 1-3 times a day. The daily dose is no more than 800 milligrams. The course of treatment is 2-6 weeks, to eliminate alcohol syndrome – 5-7 days.

Side effects: drowsiness, allergies.

Contraindications: acute liver or kidney failure, pregnancy, breastfeeding, childhood.

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Pyritinol (Pyriditol, Cerebol, Enerbol, Encephabol)

The active ingredient is pyritinol.

Take 100-300 milligrams orally after meals 2-3 times a day for 1-3 months (in rare cases up to 8 months). The daily dose for children 1-3 years old is 50-100 milligrams, 4-10 years old - 100-150 milligrams, 11-14 years old - 200-300 milligrams.

Side effects: loss of appetite, nausea, irritability, headache, sleep disturbance. Rarely, changes in taste, stagnation of bile, increased levels of liver transaminases, changes in blood composition, joint pain, and allergic skin reactions occur.

Contraindications: severe psychomotor agitation, convulsive conditions, serious liver and kidney dysfunction, autoimmune diseases, pregnancy, lactation.

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Nootropics – what kind of medicines are they?

Nootropics are a group of drugs that, according to manufacturers, have a stimulating effect on metabolic processes in the human brain. At first, these drugs were used to treat elderly patients, people with previous brain damage or injuries. In the seventies of the last century, an attempt was made for the first time to introduce nootropics (piracetam) into a separate class of drugs.

Today there are several groups:

1. Racetams are the first drugs in this direction.
2. Gamma-aminobutyric acid preparations.
3. Herbal stimulants (ginseng, ginko biloba).
4. Amino acids. The most common drug in this series is Glycine.

Note! Nootropics do not cause addiction or withdrawal symptoms with long-term use. However, the effect of these drugs has not been sufficiently studied, and their effect is not always predictable.

Nerve cells die over time and this is the root cause of memory loss in the elderly. This process is typical for people who have reached 50 years of age. The peak comes at 60-70 years. It is characterized by the fact that people are unable to remember dates, events or perform any actions. The use of drugs to improve memory for the elderly is advisable when:

• sclerosis and amnesia;
• to improve metabolic regulation;
• reducing the degree of tension;
• eliminating anxiety;
• restoring normal sleep.

For older people, specialists often prescribe:

• Glycine;
• Encephabol;
• Vitrum Memory;
• Nootropil.

You can learn more about memory medications for older people below.

Folk remedies to improve brain function

One of the alternative ways of therapy and treatment of brain failure are natural remedies, such as dietary supplements and other herbal preparations. Below are the most popular dietary supplements, the use of which is necessarily associated with the consumption of the most healthy and energy-rich food.

List:

1. Brahmi (bacopa monnieri) is a herbal remedy from a series of Ayurvedic remedies, whose effectiveness has been proven by medical research. It is based on a herbaceous plant - scutellum, which has a tonic effect and stimulates brain activity. It also has an astringent, antipyretic and rejuvenating effect.
2. Gotu kola is an extract that uses the leaves and other green parts of the perennial herbaceous plant of the same name. It has an antioxidant, immunostimulating, and wound-healing effect by stimulating collagen production.
3. Ginseng - the root of the plant has a whole complex of active substances. Along with the adaptogenic effect, it has an antitoxic effect. Has a strong tonic potential.

New generation nootropic drugs are drugs that improve cerebral circulation, assimilation ability, and stimulate mental activity. they make the brain more resistant to oxygen starvation and the effects of toxic substances.

A number of substances classified as nootropic drugs have a wide spectrum of action. The latest medications help patients survive psycho-emotional stress and normalize the functioning of the nervous system. When taking this group of drugs, nutrition plays an important role. Nootropics increase the brain's resistance to various adverse effects.

In addition to the use of industrially produced medicines, patients widely use traditional medicine and traditional recipes based on natural ingredients.

Good dynamics in the treatment of memory disorders are demonstrated by tinctures based on clover and red rowan bark, infusions of mint and sage, and healing mixtures from elecampane root with the addition of vodka. To further maintain the result, freshly squeezed juices of blueberries, onions, tomatoes, carrots, and beets are made.

Nowadays, the principle of their action has not been fully studied, however, it has been proven that, in general, such drugs have the following positive effects:

• facilitate the transmission of nerve impulses;
• stabilize and stimulate the blood supply mechanism in the brain;
• increase the brain's resistance to oxygen deficiency.

As a result, the patient’s memory function improves, the ability to learn is significantly enhanced, the brain becomes more resistant to aggressive environmental influences, and overall its performance increases.

The most famous nootropic tablets for improving memory and brain function are:

• Piracetam;
• Pantogam;
• Acefen;
• Phenibut;
• Gammalon.

Such drugs are most often used to treat middle-aged and elderly people, as well as patients with chronic conditions. Recommended duration of therapy is from 14-21 days to six months. Treatment is carried out under the supervision of a doctor, and depending on the effectiveness of the drug or lack of progress, the treatment regimen is adjusted.

If the reason for the decline in brain activity lies in the poor condition of the blood or blood vessels, then medications that help improve blood flow are prescribed for treatment. In general, such drugs are divided into antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants. The purpose of both groups is to prevent blood clots.

The drugs act according to different principles, which is why they received different names. Both types of drugs are used to treat pathologies of the cardiovascular system, after heart surgery, as well as to improve attention, concentration and blood supply to different parts of the brain.

Antiplatelet agents:

• Nicergoline;
• Chime;
• Clonidogrel;
• Ticlopidine.

Anticoagulants:

• Solcoseryl;
• Vasobral;
• Cerebrolysin.

The above is not a complete list of tablets for improving blood flow and brain activity, but the most effective of them. It is worth considering that this group of drugs has contraindications and side effects, so you can only take them after consulting a doctor.

Medicines for children and adolescents

In situations with children, the problem may not be hidden in the memory or brain itself. If a child cannot store information in his head for a long time, then maybe it’s just not for him. Perhaps the baby will like dancing or chess. Children also use drugs to improve memory and attention to solve the following problems:

• decreased intracranial pressure;
• reduction of manifestations of epilepsy;
• activation of the brain.

To improve memory, teenage children also need funds for memory growth. A growing body always needs nourishment. Vitamins that come from food are not always enough for normal brain function. After taking it, concentration increases and memorability improves.

Doctors often prescribe the following medications:

• Aminalon;
• Glycine;
• Intellan;
• Vitrum Memory.

A more detailed list of tools for brain activity will be presented below.

Note! To date, there is no scientific evidence of the effectiveness of nootropics!

The main direction of therapy for autism in children is treatment with nootropic drugs. The nootropic effect manifests itself in the form of improving the energy state of neurocellular structures, accelerating nervous system and impulse processes, oxygen saturation of the brain and strengthening neurocellular membranes.

In addition, nootropics improve metabolic processes in the brain, enliven perception and strengthen memory, and increase intellectual abilities.

Arguments in favor of treatment are based on the biological relationship of the active ingredients of these drugs with natural psychostimulants that are produced by the human body.

Their use is prohibited or strictly limited in Europe and the USA. These drugs have become widespread in the treatment of children in the post-Soviet space.

Drugs that are widely used in pediatrics:

• Piracetam,
• Neuromedin,
• Olatropil,
• Encephabol,
• Cerebrocurin,
• Cortexin,
• Actovegin,
• Neuromultivitis,
• Glycine.

They are written out:

1. with delayed speech development;
2. with pedagogical neglect;
3. with mental retardation, which is caused by gaps in the child’s development;
4. born prematurely;
5. with a diagnosis of cerebral palsy in complex therapy;
6. in autism to stimulate or inhibit the child’s psychophysical reactions.

• Piracetam is considered the most important nootropic, the founder of more modern medications in this group. It has a beneficial effect on brain structures, simulates memory processes, increases concentration and learning ability. Produced in the form of capsules and tablets, injections. It is not recommended to take Piracetam for children under one year of age, as well as for children with psychomotor agitation.
• Olatropil is a combined nootropic drug. The main components are piracetam and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Produced in capsule form. The complex effect of the active components of the drug enhances the nootropic and antihypoxic effect, increasing the ability to work and the resistance of external stress factors. Used in children over 8 years old.
• Neuromidin - the instructions for this drug indicate that it is contraindicated for children, however, specialists in the field of neurology often prescribe the medication to young patients. As a result of the use of the drug in children, nerve impulse transmission is restored, learning and memory are improved, heart rate is normalized and nervous system activity is moderately stimulated.
• Cerebrocurin is a fairly effective drug for children with autism. The main difficulties with this disease are observed in relation to the performance of certain actions that require coordination of individual parts of the brain. The use of Cerebrocurin helps improve coordination in the work of various parts of the brain and stimulates interneuronal interaction. The medication ensures long-term viability of neurons, improves cerebral microcirculation and behavioral reactions, learning and memory.

The nootropic drug Cortexin has earned the trust of some parents; it shows good results in autism. Nootropic medications for autism are considered the mainstay of therapy and are prescribed to almost all patients.

Research shows that the effects of nootropics are more noticeable in children with high IQs. Treatment of mental retardation caused by organic causes with nootropic drugs does not produce a noticeable effect. There is a slight improvement in motor activity and memory.

For autism

Drug therapy plays a significant role in the treatment of children with autism. However, there is no reliable, systematic data on the effect of neurostimulants on the condition of children with autism.

Treatment is carried out according to the following scheme: taking the drug for 3-5 months without a break, then repeating it at yearly intervals.

Drugs are prescribed depending on behavior:

• If a child with autism is easily excitable and restless, then Pantogam and Phenibut are prescribed. These medications have a calming effect, stimulate memory, attention, and increase performance.
• For lethargy, Picamilon, Encephabol, and Cogitum are indicated. Stimulant medications must be given in the morning to avoid sleep disturbances.

Reviews from parents for the most part do not confirm the significant effectiveness of nootropics in the treatment of autism. Some parents report worsening behavior when taking these medications.

Article on the topic:Micropolarization of the brain

When the development of a child’s psycho-emotional sphere is delayed, the development of his speech suffers. This problem is diagnosed after 3-5 years. It is believed that treatment with nootropics gives good results. A neurologist prescribes treatment. The most common drug for speech delay is Cogitum.

Today, since nootropics are considered safe medications, their prescription is often precautionary or preventive in nature. The principle “just in case, there will be no harm” is unacceptable in pediatric practice.

If a child is hyperactive, he may be prescribed Pantogam or Phenibut. Gamma-aminobutyric acid derivatives control inhibition processes in the child’s brain.

Drug therapy with these drugs is prescribed after 3 years. The appointment is made by a neurologist.

Nootropics in injections

In some cases, children are prescribed injections of nootropic drugs:

• Cerebrolysin. The drug shows a good effect in the treatment of “talking” autistic people. It stimulates memory and speech. Contraindicated for diseases of internal organs. An examination is required before the appointment.
• Cortexin. Shows good results in the treatment of cognitively intact children with cerebral palsy. Suitable for use in epilepsy.

The use of nootropics in the treatment of premature infants cannot be unequivocally recommended or prohibited. Difficult or premature births have different effects on the health and development of the baby. Classic pediatrics uses Piracetam and its derivatives for prematurity to improve brain nutrition at the cellular level.

Thus, today there is no clear answer whether nootropics are beneficial or harmful for children. It should be remembered that no pill can replace love, care and developmental activities for a child with problems.

New generation combination drugs

Consist of several active substances, one of which is usually racetam:

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Olatropil

The active ingredients are piracetam and gamma-aminobutyric acid (aminalone). Release form: capsules of 250 milligrams of piracetam and 125 milligrams of aminalon. Adults take 1 capsule before meals 3-4 times a day, but not more than 6 capsules per day. Children are prescribed 1 capsule 3 times a day. The course of treatment is 1-2 months and can be repeated after 6-8 weeks.

Side effects: hyperkinesia, headaches, sleep disturbances, anxiety, abdominal pain, digestive disorders, allergic reactions on the skin, increased blood pressure, weight gain.

Contraindications: severe liver or kidney dysfunction, hemorrhagic stroke, pregnancy, lactation, age under 8 years, individual intolerance.

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Thiocetam

The active ingredients are piracetam and thiotriazoline. Release form: tablets containing 200 milligrams of piracetam and 50 milligrams of thiotriazoline, as well as ampoules with an injection solution. Take 2 tablets 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals for 1-4 months.

Side effects: anxiety, irritability, mental agitation, imbalance, headaches, confusion, nausea, vomiting, increased blood pressure, heart pain, shortness of breath, allergic reactions.

Contraindications: hemorrhagic stroke, renal failure, lactose or fructose intolerance, pregnancy, lactation, childhood, hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

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Phezam (Combitropil, NooKam, Omaron, Piracesin)

The active ingredients are piracetam and cinnarizine.

Release form: capsules or tablets for oral administration containing 400 milligrams of piracetam and 25 milligrams of cinnarizine.

Adults take 1-2 capsules 3 times a day, children - 1-2 capsules 1-2 times a day, depending on age and severity of the disease. The course of treatment is 1-3 months.

Side effects: increased motor activity, nervousness, depression, sleep disturbances, headaches, nausea, digestive disorders, allergic rashes.

Contraindications: severe liver or kidney failure, hemorrhagic stroke, psychomotor agitation, pregnancy, lactation, age under 5 years, individual intolerance.

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Glycine

The drug is based on aminoacetic acid, which is synthesized in the human body from other amino acids. Glycine is found in both plant and animal foods. However, in tablets it is much faster and easier to digest. Glycine enters directly into the blood and is transported to the brain.

Glycine is prescribed to children in the following cases:

• for birth injuries;
• as a sedative for high excitability and anxiety;
• with trembling of arms, legs, head;
• medicine to improve sleep;
• for chronic muscle diseases;
• congenital encephalopathy.

Glycine is recommended for children of any age under stress or increased mental stress, as the drug regulates the processes of excitation and inhibition.

How to make your brain work - mind training

It's never too late to train your mind. There are simple solutions to this issue:

• starting from the first letter of the alphabet to about the twentieth, pronounce words, try to do it quickly, for example, A - algorithm, B - bison, C - fiber and so on;
• try to pronounce foreign words learned at school as often as possible;
• say the numbers in reverse order, starting from fifty to zero, gradually increasing;
• play as if in childhood with the names of cities - when you hear the last letter in the name of the city, say the name of the next one;
• try to come up with as many synonyms for different words as possible.

In general, solving crossword puzzles, memorizing poems and solving complex problems is a great way to train the brain.

People also have unconventional ways to restore memory. Of course, it is difficult to believe in them, but they do exist.

One of these remedies is “golden water”. Although scientists say that this noble metal does not react with water, those who have tried this method of treatment speak only positively about this procedure.

There is another interesting method, although it does not seem effective to everyone, but still people who have done these exercises several times have recognized the effect of this method.

If you put gold jewelry without precious stones in a half-liter container, then boil until the volume is reduced by half and take a teaspoon three times a day. After 14 days, the heart muscle will become stronger and memory will improve.

Based on the above, we can conclude that neither method will harm the body.

Memory tablets for students

Students receive only part of the information at the university, and the rest must be studied at home. Sessions cause constant stress, chronic lack of sleep, and a feeling of constant fatigue.

Now there is a large selection of drugs that improve memory. Such tools will help solve the following problems:

• remember large amounts of information;
• activate brain function;
• strengthen the blood vessels of the brain;
• increase attentiveness;
• cope with stress.

Doctors often recommend the following:

• Glycine;
• Aminalon;
• Piracetam;
• Phenotropil.

Any drug for students should be prescribed only by a doctor. Next we will consider a list of mental aids.

ATTENTION! The choice of restorative drugs should remain with the attending physician after examining the patient and making an accurate diagnosis.

Semax

Available in the form of nasal drops, in a special plastic bottle with a dropper cap, it is convenient to use even for the youngest patients. Semax is quite often used in pediatrics, as it is absolutely safe for the health of young children.

If a child has serious developmental disorders, then one should not refrain from taking nootropic drugs. However, it is not recommended to buy nootropics at a pharmacy on your own without consulting a specialist. In order to prevent the occurrence of side effects, as well as not to harm the child’s health, you should strictly adhere to the dose and duration of treatment prescribed by the doctor.

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Exercises

Exercises to improve brain activity are quite simple, such exercises include:

• Speedy recall and pronunciation of words beginning with sequential letters of the alphabet.
• Retrieval of previously learned foreign words from memory.
• Countdown digital series.
• Games that involve pronouncing city names using the letter specified by the rules.
• Listing words with similar meanings.

In general, there are a lot of such exercises, you can even invent them yourself.

Exercises to improve memory

The best nootropic drugs

To understand what helps in this situation, you need to know the exact diagnosis. After this, the doctor will be able to prescribe therapy. Below are the best mental health supplements for memory and attention. It is important to remember that each drug has its own indications, contraindications and adverse reactions, so spontaneous treatment is not allowed.

Glycine

It is the most popular medication in Russia, which is often prescribed for stress and excessive nervousness. Quite often used to improve brain activity and memory by children studying at the university, during the defense of diplomas and exams.

The drug is related to a group of medications taken to improve metabolism in the brain. The drug has a good effect on a person’s mental performance, as well as memory, thinking, and the ability of schoolchildren to learn. The dietary supplement is produced in tablets. Is an amino acid.

Medicines can be prescribed not only to patients with the above diseases, but also to completely healthy people experiencing increased stress on the psyche and nervous system.

It’s quite difficult to figure out the list of the most popular nootropics on your own, so it’s best to seek medical advice.
We will talk about several drugs that top the rating of nootropic drugs. Table of the best nootropic drugs

Nootropil

The second name of the drug is Piracetam, based on the name of the active substance. Available in the form of tablets, syrup (including for children), capsules, solutions for injections.

Prescribed for diseases of a neurological and psychiatric nature, used in narcology and pediatrics, for the treatment of sickle cell anemia (as part of combination therapy).

Contraindicated in case of impaired renal function, hemorrhagic stroke, intolerance to components. At doses above 5 g/day, there is a high likelihood of side effects.

Brain Booster

A product from the group of dietary supplements produced in the UK. Contains 3 groups of components: natural nutrients, medicinal plants, vitamins. Brain Booster is indicated for use:

• for chronic fatigue syndrome;
• with age-related brain dysfunctions;
• for anxiety during reactive depression;
• to improve performance;
• to eliminate the consequences of cerebrovascular accidents, etc.

The product is taken in pure or diluted form up to 3 times a day, 5 ml. Contraindications - use caution if you are prone to allergic reactions.

Brain Rush

Another remedy from

groups of dietary supplements

, which collected a lot of positive reviews.

Included

: glycine, biotin, B vitamins, plant bioconcentrates, licorice root, ginseng, motherwort. Available in the form of capsules, which are taken in courses of 20 days.

It is used to reduce the intensity of higher nervous activity of the brain: weakened memory, absent-mindedness, inattention, the appearance of chronic fatigue, decreased perception and assimilation of information.

Possible contraindications include a predisposition to allergic manifestations.

Fenotropil

The most effective nootropics are represented by Phenotropil, a drug with a pronounced anti-amnestic effect. The main active ingredient is phenotropil. Available in tablet form, it has a positive effect on metabolic processes and blood circulation in the brain.

Prescribed for cerebral infarction, traumatic brain injury, depression and apathetic states, obesity, chronic alcoholism, for preventive purposes. Contraindications: individual intolerance, childhood, periods of pregnancy and lactation, lactose intolerance.

Phenibut

Nootropic with dual effects:

1. stimulates blood circulation and metabolism;
2. has a sedative effect.

The active substance is hydrochloride. The drug is available in tablet form. Prescribed for:

• Asthenic and anxious-neurotic states;
• Sleep disturbances;
• Meniere's disease, dizziness, for the prevention of motion sickness;
• Stuttering and tics in children;
• To prevent anxiety.

Contraindications: individual intolerance, liver failure, periods of pregnancy and lactation. Use caution in case of gastrointestinal lesions.

Picamilon

The main active ingredient is nicotinoyl-gamma-aminobutyric acid; the drug is available in the form of tablets and solution for injection.

The drug has a number of therapeutic effects:

• stimulating metabolism;
• antihypoxic;
• antioxidant;
• moderately tranquilizing;
• selective detoxification (in relation to alcohol).

Prescribed for the treatment of the following diseases or conditions:

• Ischemic cerebral stroke (at various stages and varying degrees of severity);
• Vegetative-vascular dystonia;
• Asthenic conditions;
• Traumatic brain injuries;
• During periods of rehabilitation;
• For preventive purposes, etc.

The main contraindications include: chronic and acute kidney pathologies, individual intolerance to components, periods of pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Calcium channel blockers

Intracellular calcium concentration plays a significant role in the mechanisms of memory impairment. In turn, calcium channel blockers help improve cerebral blood flow.

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Nimodipine (Nemotan, Nimodip, Nimotop)

The active ingredient is nimodipine.

Available in tablets and injection solutions.

For functional disorders of the brain, take 1 tablet 3 times a day for several months.

Side effects: nausea, diarrhea, constipation, decreased or increased blood pressure, hot flashes, tachycardia, bradycardia, edema, difficulty breathing, dizziness, sleep disorders, aggression, depression, allergies.

Contraindications: severe liver damage, recent myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, cerebral hemorrhages, increased intracranial pressure, pregnancy, lactation, childhood, sensitivity to the drug.

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Cinnarizine (Stugeron, Stugezin)

The active ingredient is cinnarizine.

Available in 25 milligram tablets.

You should take 1-3 tablets 3 times a day. For motion sickness, take 1 tablet 30 minutes before the trip. The dose for children is half the adult dose.

Side effects: drowsiness, fatigue, increased tone of the limbs, dry mouth, abdominal pain, weight gain, decreased blood pressure, jaundice, sweating, rash.

Contraindications: pregnancy, breastfeeding. Use with caution if you have Parkinson's disease.

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