Nootropic

Nootropics ( NOH-ə-TROH-piks, -⁠TROP-iks; colloquially brain supplements, smart drugs, cognitive enhancers, memory enhancers, or brain boosters) are chemical substances which purportedly improve cognitive functions, such as attention, memory, wakefulness, and self-control. In the United States, nootropics can be over-the-counter drugs and are commonly advertised with unproven claims of effectiveness for improving cognition. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have warned manufacturers and consumers about possible advertising fraud and marketing scams concerning nootropic supplements. Nootropics include both prescription drugs and dietary supplements marketed to enhance brain function, but while FDA-approved drugs have proven benefits and oversight, many dietary supplements lack evidence, may contain unapproved or hidden drugs, and pose safety and regulatory risks.