Best nootropics for depression-2022

Best Nootropics for Major Depressive Disorder

David Tomen
Author:
David Tomen
17 minute read

Nootropic forums and blogs often describe depression as a neurotransmitter imbalance in the brain. And then offer suggestions on various nootropics for major depressive disorder or drugs to help lift your mood and reduce depression.

But this simplistic view of depression misses the complexity of this disease.

Recent research has shown that depression can have many possible causes. Including out of whack mood regulation by your brain, genetic problems, stressful events or living conditions, prescription medications or other medical problems causing cognitive impairments.

It’s true that neurotransmitters are involved in the process that contributes to depression. But it’s usually not a matter of one neurotransmitter being too low or another too high.

Here’s the thing. You have several neurotransmitter systems, amino acids, hormones and other neurochemicals working both inside and outside neurons.

The interaction of these neurochemical reactions make up a highly dynamic system that contributes to your mood. And how you perceive and experience life.

With this level of complexity, you may have similar symptoms of depression to the person next to you. But the issues in your brain and body may be completely different. So what works best for someone else experiencing your symptoms may not be best option for you.

And this is why we often say in the nootropic community that Your Mileage May Vary (YMMV) when describing a particular nootropic supplement. And how it feels.

In this article you’ll discover other possible causes contributing to your depression. How to recognize them. How to use nootropic supplements to test different possible causes so you can narrow down what may be causing your depression.

And I’ll share some nootropic supplement suggestions that may help relieve your depression symptoms for a better quality of life.

Depression and Neurogenesis

It turns out that brain cell signaling, neurogenesis and the function of neuronal circuits may play a more important role in depression than simply the levels of serotonin or dopamine.

For example, researchers in Munich studied 24 women who had a history of depression. And on average, their hippocampus was 9 – 13% smaller in the depressed women compared to healthy women. And the more bouts of depression a woman had, their hippocampus was even smaller compared to less depressed women in the study.[i]Best nootropics for mood enhancement

We know that stress can play a role in depression and on your central nervous system. And research has shown that stress can suppress neurogenesis. Which would account for the smaller hippocampus in these women.

We also know that Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a naturally occurring protein in your brain, is critical for preventing apoptosis (brain cell death), is required for the growth of new neurons (neurogenesis) and the growth and maintenance of synapses.

Please check out my article on “13 Nootropics to Boost BDNF”. Increasing BDNF is one way to combat depression. Below I’ll share a list of nootropics for you to try some of which also help to increase levels of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) among other benefits for a healthy brain.

If you’ve ever tried antidepressants for alleviating depressive symptoms, you know that it often takes weeks to feel any benefit. Scientists have a theory that the value of some of these medications may be in generating new neurons (neurogenesis), strengthening neuron connections, and improving brain cell signaling. Which often takes time before you can feel the result.

So now researchers speculate that new medications could be developed to specifically promote neurogenesis. As it turns out, we already have this ability with several natural nootropic supplements.

Depression and Neurotransmitters

We know that neurotransmitter dysfunction is not the only cause of depression. But we can’t discount their importance either.

Neurons are designed to communicate with each other. When a neuron is activated, it passes an ‘action potential’, which is a tiny electrical signal, down its axon to the axon terminal (synapse).  Neurotransmitters are stored in synaptic vesicles.

The action potential (electrical signal) releases certain neurotransmitters into the synapse. Which then sends it over to a synapse on a dendrite connected to the receiving neuron. As the concentration of neurotransmitters rise in the synapse, they bind to receptors embedded in the membranes of the two neurons.

This release of a neurotransmitter from one neuron can activate or inhibit the second neuron. Once the first neuron has released a certain amount of neurotransmitter molecules, a feedback mechanism instructs the transmitting neuron to stop releasing neurotransmitter molecules and begin bringing them back into the 1st neuron. This process is called reuptake.

In those who are severely depressed or manic, this fine-tuned system of neuro-signaling can go out of whack. Either too much or too little of the neurotransmitter is released.

Or if the reuptake is overly efficient and mops up too many neurotransmitter molecules before they have a chance to bind to receptors. It can have a significant impact on mood.

The primary neurotransmitters that can play a role in depression include:

Each one of these neurotransmitters can be boosted, or their reuptake affected by nootropic supplements (listed below).

sulbutiamine-for-depression

Depressive Symptoms and Prescription Medication

Depression can result as a side effect of certain prescription drugs. These drugs can include antimicrobials, antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, heart and blood pressure drugs, hormones, insomnia drugs, tranquilizers, antacids, narcotic pain drugs and more.

We know from experience that many of these prescription drugs may be replaced by safer, natural nootropic supplements.

But I am NOT encouraging you to stop using whatever meds you’re currently on. Without consulting with your doctor first. I am encouraging you to learn about and possibly try safer alternatives that often do the job just as well and will enhance your brain health.

CAUTION: many nootropic supplements are contraindicated with prescription SSRIs, MAOIs, tricyclics, and others that work on the same neurotransmitter system. Combining any of these ‘natural’ nootropic supplements with the wrong drug can do serious harm. Including ending your life. Please, please read the Side Effects section of each nootropic review here on Nootropics Expert®. And if in doubt please ask me and consult with your doctor before trying a nootropic if you are using any of these prescription meds.

Depression and Stress

Nearly all of us experience stressful events. And while not every one of us who faces stress develops depressive disorders or other mental disorders. Stress however often does play an important role in depression.

Depending on how sensitive you are to stress, along with messed up neurochemistry and even genetics. A perfect storm of any or all of these influencing factors can lead to depression.

So, please read my extended article on “Best Nootropics for Anxiety” which includes several nootropic supplements that may help you deal with and conquer stress and even boosts your mental performance.

noopept-for-depression

Recommended Nootropics for Depression and Enhance Cognitive Performance

If you are currently being treated for depression. Or suspect you may be dealing with undiagnosed depression. And are looking for a more natural, safer way to treat your symptoms. Nootropics may be the answer.

You’re not alone looking for a natural alternative to drugs that often often associated with a host of side effects. Research in the United States and other countries show that significant numbers of people use ‘alternative medicine’ to treat their depression.

Researchers conducted a survey of more than 3,000 women in the USA to find out how many turned to alternative medicine for depression. Of the 220 women who said they had been officially diagnosed with depression, 54% said they used alternative medicine to treat their symptoms.[ii]

We have found that the following list of nootropics work well for different types and causes of depression.

As I mentioned before, your mileage may vary. What works for me may not work for you. Wise and careful experimentation is critical to finding a safer alternative for treating your depression.

    1. Aniracetam – A member of the racetam-family of nootropics, Aniracetam works with dopamine D2 and D3 receptors in your brain. And desensitizes AMPA (glutamate) receptors which can help control glutamate toxicity.Aniracetam is one of the most effective antidepressants I’ve even tried. And its effects on dopamine in your brain can have a profound effect on anxiety symptoms as well.

 

    1. Bacopa Monnieri – One of the most powerful herbs in Ayurvedic medicine. Bacopa Monnieri has been used for millennia to relieve anxiety, fatigue, restore energy and boost concentration.This adaptogen has been shown in clinical studies to work as well for depression as benzodiazepines and tricyclic antidepressants.[iii]

 

    1. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)CoQ10 contributes to your cell’s natural source of energy. Producing ATP in your mitochondria by taking fat and converting it into usable energy. CoQ10 preserves brain function, helps fight mental illness and migraines.Major depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia are now being recognized as having mitochondrial dysfunction in common. With higher oxidative stress levels.[iv] Studies show that 1,200 mg per day of CoQ10 in bipolar adults experienced a significant reduction in depression.[v]

 

    1. 5-HTPI do NOT recommend using 5-HTP for treating depression. But only include it here since it is marketed as a “natural antidepressant”.This amino acid is naturally produced in your body. And synthesized from the amino acid tryptophan which you get from food. 5-HTP is the precursor needed to produce the ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitter serotonin. But a summary published in the Alternative Medicine Review noted a lack of evidence for ‘loading’ precursors to treat depression.[vi] Combining 5-HTP with SSRI’s, Tricyclics or MAOI’s will cause Serotonin Syndrome which can be deadly.

 

    1. Ginkgo Biloba – This tree native to China has been used for thousands of years to boost mental alertness, improve cerebral circulation and for better overall brain function. Many have found Ginkgo Biloba to be very effective for reducing anxiety and stress. And for boosting mood.1,570 men and women in England participated in a study using 120 mg of Ginkgo Biloba extract daily for 4, 6, and 10 months. Those who used Gingko Biloba the longest experienced the most improvement improvements for anxiety, depression, energy, drowsiness, sadness and happiness.[vii]

 

    1. Iodine – Did you know that iodine deficient populations are up to 13.5 IQ points less than those with optimal iodine levels in their system?[viii] Since iodine has largely been removed from table salt in some countries, it has been suggested that iodine deficiency is epidemic. Particularly in countries like the United States.Iodine is essential to thyroid health and the production of thyroid hormones. Nearly every tissue in your body relies on thyroid hormones for healthy function. Not enough iodine can result in hypothyroidism. Negatively affecting acetylcholine synthesis in your brain. Affecting cognition, learning and memory, recall and mood.

 

    1. Kava Kava is native to the South Pacific. And the islanders use kava for its sedative effects. Kava can help reduce anxiety and depression. Unlike benzodiazepines, Kava does not impair cognitive function. In fact, studies show that not only will Kava improve mood. It may also boost cognitive function as well.[ix]

 

    1. Lion’s Mane Mushroom – Also called the “smart mushroom”, Lion’s Mane boosts brain nerve growth factor which increases neurogenesis. Lion’s Mane can help improve focus and attention, boost thinking and processing speed, repair brain cells, and help relieve anxiety and depression.Women in Japan received Lion’s Mane-laced cookies for 4 weeks during a clinical trial. The researchers found that Lion’s Mane reduced anxiety and depression in these women during the trial.[x]

 

    1. Magnesium – Lack of adequate magnesium can result in brain fog, anxiety and depression. Plasticity of neuron synapses is affected by having enough magnesium in brain cells.A study was conducted with 5,708 people in Norway. The aim of the study was to examine the association between magnesium intake and depression and anxiety. The researchers found that low magnesium intake is related to depression.[xi]

 

    1. Mucuna Pruriens (L-DOPA)L-DOPA is synthesized from the amino acid tyrosine in your body. And is a precursor to the formation of dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine in your brain.Mucuna Pruriens has been used in Ayurveda medicine since 1500 B.C. For treating things like snakebite, intestinal problems, sexual issues and melancholy mood. Research shows that supplementing with L-DOPA extracted from Mucuna Pruriens can be a great natural antidepressant if you are low in dopamine.[xii]

 

    1. N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC)NAC is an amino acid that regulates the amount of glutamate and dopamine in your brain. It helps restore dysfunctional dopamine receptors. And is a precursor to Glutathione which is your master antioxidant needed to reduce free radicals and oxidative stressA study with 75 subjects with bipolar disorder were given 1 gram of NAC twice daily for 24 weeks. Treatment with NAC resulted in a significant improvement with depression in these patients.[xiii]

 

    1. N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT) – NALT is a highly bioavailable form of the amino acid L-Tyrosine. Your brain uses tyrosine to produce dopamine and norepinephrine. Dopamine is involved in libido, memory, focus, goal-oriented concentration, is a mood elevator and antidepressant.If you are ADHD, or have other issues with low dopamine, supplementing with NALT or L-Tyrosine may help improve your memory, boost your IQ, and relieve depression. I highly recommend NALT or L-Tyrosine for anyone using stimulants like Adderall or Ritalin for treating ADHD.

 

    1. Nefiracetam – One of the newer members of the racetam-family of nootropics, Nefiracetam is used clinically to treat and prevent seizures, severe depression and has shown neuroprotective qualities.The structure of Nefiracetam is similar to the other great racetam antidepressant Aniracetam. Researchers at the University of Iowa did a trial with 159 stroke patients with major depression. The study concluded that Nefiracetam produced a significant improvement in the most severely depressed patients.[xiv]

 

    1. Noopept – This peptide-derived nootropic related to the racetam-family is much more potent than Piracetam. But its mechanism of action in your brain is similar to other racetams.Noopept stimulates dopamine, nicotinic and serotonin receptors. It boosts cognition, memory, logical thinking, reflexes and mood.[xv] Noopept increases Alpha brain waves and Beta brain waves. Increasing relaxation. Alpha brain waves increase relaxation and the Beta brain waves assist with your state of alertness and mental clarity. Both of these combined can move you into super-learning, flow states and joy.

 

    1. Phenylalanine – This amino acid is a precursor to tyrosine in your brain. Tyrosine helps in the synthesis of dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine.One study was done with 23 patients diagnosed with depression who had not responded to standard antidepressants. They were given 50 or 100 mg of Phenylalanine daily for 15 days. The researchers found that Phenylalanine completely improved mood in 17 of the patients. Within 13 days of the 15-day trial.[xvi]

 

    1. Rhodiola RoseaRhodiola Rosea activates AMPA receptors in your brain. Which can decrease depression and stress-related mood swings, reduces fatigue, stimulates energy and alertness, boosts cognition, and motivation.A clinical trial with 57 patients diagnosed with depression were given Rhodiola Rosea extract, sertraline (Zoloft®), or a placebo for 12 weeks. The study found that Rhodiola Rosea was slightly less effective than sertraline for depression. But produced far fewer side effects and was better tolerated.[xvii]

 

    1. SAM-eSAM-e is the naturally occurring amino acid methionine bound to an ATP molecule. It helps in the process of cell division and repair, and the generation of the neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine and melatonin. Which is why it’s considered a potent nootropic.SAM-e is used to boost mood, relieve depression, improve energy levels and reduce symptoms of fibromyalgia. 20 healthy volunteers took part in a study receiving infusions of 800 mg of SAM-e or a placebo for 7 days. EEG mapping during the study identified SAM-e as an antidepressant. Targeting brain regions crucial in the therapeutic efficacy of antidepressants.[xviii]

 

    1. St. John’s wort – This herb has traditionally been used for mood disorders and wound healing. Today it’s used mostly as a treatment for anxiety, depression and stress.St. John’s wort works like prescription SSRI’s by preventing the reuptake of serotonin in your brain. But please read the precautions for using this nootropic in the extended article. Before trying it as a nootropic supplement to treat your depression.

 

    1. Sulbutiamine – Sulbutiamine is a synthesized version of Vitamin B1 (thiamine) which easily crosses the blood-brain barrier. As a nootropic, it’s used to boost mood, memory and motivation.A study at the University of Wales Swansea in the UK worked with 120 young adult females. Study participants took either a placebo or 50 mg thiamine for 2 months. Mood, memory and reaction times were monitored before and after taking the tablets. 2 months after supplementing with thiamine, participants were more clearheaded, felt more composed and energetic, reaction times improved, and mood was better.[xix]

 

    1. Tryptophan – This essential amino acid is a precursor to serotonin, melatonin and niacin (Vitamin B3) in your body. Adding tryptophan to your stack can help boost your serotonin levels. And should help with anxiety, ADHD, depression, insomnia, memory loss, pain and eating disorders.

 

    1. TurmericTurmeric is one of the main spices in curries. In parts of India where curries are eaten most often, Alzheimer’s disease is extremely rare. This spice (and its extract called curcumin) has a unique ability to reduce inflammation common to Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and brain tumors.A study conducted in India looked at the efficacy and safety of using curcumin, the main active ingredient found in turmeric, for treating major depression.60 depressed patients took either 20 mg of Prozac®, 1000 mg of curcumin, or a combination of both daily for 6 weeks. The best response during the trial was with patients using the combination. And the researchers concluded that curcumin could be used as an effective and safe treatment for patients with major depression.

 

    1. Uridine Monophosphate – This precursor to Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) provides instructions from your DNA to help create memory by facilitating connections between brain neurons (synapses).Uridine supplementation as a nootropic uplifts and stabilizes mood, is anti-stress, helps Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), is anti-anxiety and helps modulate and normalize dopamine release.[xx]

 

    1. Vitamin B6Vitamin B6 helps your brain make serotonin, norepinephrine and melatonin. The activated form of Vitamin B6 called P-5-P is particularly effective in boosting serotonin and GABA in your brain.For depression, look for a P-5-P supplement or a B-Complex formula that uses P-5-P.

 

    1. Vitamin B12 – This B-vitamin plays a key role in the efficient conversion of carbohydrates to glucose which contributes to cellular fuel production (ATP). It helps your body convert fatty acids into energy.Supplementing with Vitamin B12 can help lower anxiety, and elevate alertness, cognition, energy, vision, elevate mood and relieve insomnia. No more mood swings!

 

Depressed No More

Nootropics can be a strong alternative to many antidepressant medications currently prescribed by doctors. And promoted by the Big Pharmaceutical companies.dopaminergic nootropics

But a very strong word of caution – if you are currently using any prescription antidepressant medications. Or any medication for that matter. Research each nootropic including side effects and prescription drug interactions before using them.

To finally beat depression, you must figure out the root cause of it. It is pointless to try otherwise without doing your research. Experiment with various nootropic supplements until you find what works for you.

Good luck in your search. There is hope. I know because I’ve conquered my own depression. And came out the other side better than before.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may also contain other affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

[i] Frodl T. et. Al. “Reduced hippocampal volume correlates with executive dysfunctioning in major depression” Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience 2006 Sep; 31(5): 316–325. (source)

[ii] “Alternative medicine for depression” Harvard Medical School July 1, 2007 (source)

[iii] Bhattacharya S.K., Bhattacharya A., Sairam K., “Ghosal S. Anxiolytic-antidepressant activity of Withania somnifera glycowithanolides: an experimental study.” Phytomedicine 2000 Dec;7(6):463-9. (source)

[iv] Maes M., Galecki P., Chang Y.S., Berk M. “ A review on the oxidative and nitrosative stress (O&NS) pathways in major depression and their possible contribution to the (neuro)degenerative processes in that illness.” Progress in Neuropsychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry. 2011 Apr 29;35(3):676-92. (source)

[v] Forester B.P., Zuo C.S., Ravichandran C., Harper D.G., Du F., Kim S., Cohen B.M., Renshaw P.F. “Coenzyme Q10 effects on creatine kinase activity and mood in geriatric bipolar depression.” Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neurology. 2012 Mar;25(1):43-50. (source)

[vi] Meyers S. “Use of neurotransmitter precursors for treatment of depression.” Alternative Medicine Revue. 2000 Feb;5(1):64-71. (source)

[vii] Trick L., Boyle J., Hindmarch I. “The effects of Ginkgo biloba extract (LI 1370) supplementation and discontinuation on activities of daily living and mood in free living older volunteers.” Phytotherapy Research. 2004 Jul;18(7):531-7. (source)

[viii] Qian M., Wang D., Watkins W.E., Gebski V., Yan Y.Q., Li M., Chen Z.P. “The effects of iodine on intelligence in children: a meta-analysis of studies conducted in China.” Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2005;14(1):32-42. (source)

[ix] Thompson R., Ruch W., Hasenöhrl R.U. “Enhanced cognitive performance and cheerful mood by standardized extracts of Piper methysticum (Kava-kava). Human Psychopharmacology. 2004 Jun;19(4):243-50. (source)

[x] Nagano M., Shimizu K., Kondo R., Hayashi C., Sato D., Kitagawa K., Ohnuki K. “Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake.” Biomedical Research. 2010 Aug;31(4):231-7. (source)

[xi] Jacka F.N. et. Al. “ Association between magnesium intake and depression and anxiety in community-dwelling adults: the Hordaland Health Study” Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry Volume 43, Issue 1, 2009 (source)

[xii] Rana D.G., Galani V.J. “Dopamine mediated antidepressant effect of Mucuna pruriens seeds in various experimental models of depression.” Ayu. 2014 Jan;35(1):90-7. (source)

[xiii] Berk M., Copolov D.L., Dean O., Lu K., Jeavons S, Schapkaitz I., Anderson-Hunt M., Bush A.I. “N-acetyl cysteine for depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder–a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial.” Biological Psychiatry. 2008 Sep 15;64(6):468-75 (source)

[xiv] Robinson R.G., Jorge R.E., Clarence-Smith K. “Double-blind randomized treatment of poststroke depression using nefiracetam.” Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences. 2008 Spring;20(2):178-84. (source)

[xv] Gudasheva T.A., Konstantinopol’skii M.A., Ostrovskaya R.U., Seredenin S.B. “Anxiolytic activity of endogenous nootropic dipeptide cycloprolylglycine in elevated plus-maze test.” Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine. 2001 May;131(5):464-6. (source)

[xvi] Fischer E., Heller B., Nachon M., Spatz H. “Therapy of depression by phenylalanine. Preliminary note.” Arzneimittelforschung. 1975 Jan;25(1):132. (source)

[xvii] Mao J.J., Xie S.X., Zee J., Soeller I., Li QS., Rockwell K., Amsterdam J.D. “Rhodiola rosea versus sertraline for major depressive disorder: A randomized placebo-controlled trial.” Phytomedicine. 2015 Mar 15;22(3):394-9. (source)

[xviii] Saletu B., Anderer P., Di Padova C., Assandri A., Saletu-Zyhlarz G.M. “Electrophysiological neuroimaging of the central effects of S-adenosyl-L-methionine by mapping of electroencephalograms and event-related potentials and low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography.” American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2002 Nov;76(5):1162S-71S (source)

[xix] Benton D., Griffiths R., Haller J. “Thiamine supplementation mood and cognitive functioning.” Psychopharmacology 1997 Jan;129(1):66-71. (source)

[xx] Powell A. “Rx for depression: ‘Mangia, mangia!’ Harvard Gazette Archives new.harvard.edu March 03, 2005 Retrieved August 9, 2016 (source)

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Join The Discussion - 328 comments

Marlene
May 5, 2021

Hi,
I am curious why Niacin is not listed as a recommendation along with the other B vitamins?

    David Tomen
    May 5, 2021

    Marlene, likely because when I was writing this article there weren’t any clinical studies AND niacin showing up in my research.

    I’m sure they may exist and someone could make a argument that niacin deficiency is a cause of depression. That statement is purely a guess at this stage.

    But I had to end this list somewhere. Otherwise, this page would have went on forever.

Lu
March 6, 2021

Should I take all of these ?

Where do I start ?

    David Tomen
    March 7, 2021

    Lu, you don’t “take all of these” for a number of reasons. I suggest reading this article again from top to bottom. Maybe something will resonate while reading the causes of depression above.

    Try one nootropic from the list and see if it helps. If not then move on to the next one. Trial and error until you find something that brings relief is the only way to do this.

Anina
March 6, 2021

Hi, I’m wondering if any of these nootropics for depression could interact with Lamictal (Lamotrigine) which I use as a mood stabilizer?

Rose
February 14, 2021

Hi David, It’s me Rose, from the other page, trying to help my friend Susan (71, 750mg lithium carbonate a day plus 200mgs seroquel). In reading your suggested page, above, I wondered about the COq10 if that would be okay to use in conjunction with these meds she is on. That one sounded like it could perhaps help her, though it seems a shot in the dark.
Also, may the curcumin.
Thank you in advance for your help,
Rose

    David Tomen
    February 15, 2021

    Rose, both are good ideas. Just please read the “Side Effects” section of each review for CoQ10 and Turmeric (Curcumin) before you proceed.

Rostam Dastranj
February 8, 2021

Hi David
I appreciate for all the great information you share. My question is: Since there is no information available about the possible interactions, What do you think of using Noopept while I’m on my prescription drug (Sertraline [SSRI])?
Thank you in advance.

    David Tomen
    February 8, 2021

    Rostam, Noopept stimulates dopamine receptors (D2 and D3) and sertraline is an potent inhibitor of the dopamine transporter. So not sure what the effects of that would be. I’m guessing here with no proof but it sounds like at the least Noopept may potentiate the effects of sertraline. Which is likely not a good thing.

    Here again is the problem when trying to use nootropics with antidepressants. It’s a wild card and not worth the risk in my opinion.

noel
January 30, 2021

Hi David. Please tell me what you think about this daily stack : ALCAR, theanine, caffeine, vitamin c, vitamin d, fish oil, multivitamin. Also alternate sulbutiamin with rhodiola daily as well. I have been feeling pretty good with this routine.

    David Tomen
    January 31, 2021

    Noel, if it works for you then I suggest you keep on using this stack.

    You may want to ‘upgrade’ parts of this stack which could tweak your results in a positive direction. For example, instead of fish oil use 1,000 mg DHA and make sure you are using a quality multivitamin. This last point is important because most multis on the market are synthetic vitamins and ground up rock for minerals. Which your body struggles to convert to something it can use.

      noel
      February 7, 2021

      Hi David. I have been alternating between sulbutiamin and rhodiola every day mainly due to anecdotal reports of many people reporting declining results with using sulbutiamin on a daily basis. Is it safe and perhaps more relevant, to say effective, to take BOTH on a daily basis?

      Also, when it comes to rhodiola, which version do you personally recommend – the 3% rosavins or the 3% salindrasides ?

      Thank you!

        David Tomen
        February 7, 2021

        Noel, I use Sulbutiamine twice per day and have for years without a problem. But that’s just me. It may not work as well for you and you’ll need to cycle. I don’t encourage it however.

        And the standard Rhodiola Rosea extract supplement is rosavins and salidrosides in a 3:1 ratio. This mimics the ratio of these compounds that naturally occur in Rhodiola Rosea root.

        Noel
        February 12, 2021

        Hi David. Whats are thoughts on Tonkat Ali ? I recently started to add it to my stack. The jury is still out on it though. Just curious what you think about it. Thanks.

        David Tomen
        February 14, 2021

        Noel, Tongkat Ali hasn’t been on my list of supplements to review because of my focus on cognitive health and brain function.

        However, I’m finding more and more that these herbs sold as sexual enhancers do more than just boost testosterone and sperm quality. Tongkat Ali helps control blood sugar, lowers cortisol, is anti-cancer and at least a couple more benefits.

        I’m currently working on an article about how sex hormones affect brain function. I think I’ll need to add Tongkat Ali to my list of “nootropics” to review because of it. Because everything I’ve seen so far has been very positive.

        Noel
        February 19, 2021

        Hi David. What are your thoughts on phenibut? I have heard good things about it. Is it safe ? effective ? Thank you.

        David Tomen
        February 20, 2021

        Noel, Phenibut is not safe for the inexperienced user. It’s difficult to dose and many become addicted to it because of that. Withdrawal when you quit can be as bad as withdrawing from benzos.

      Noel
      March 4, 2021

      Hi David. Is Aniracetam still your favorite racetam? I like it, but also like Phenylpiracetam and Fasoracetam. Any thoughts on those two? Thanks.

        David Tomen
        March 5, 2021

        Noel, Aniracetam is still my favorite for over a decade of use. I reacted badly to Phenylpiracetam and cannot use it. And Fasoracetam doesn’t have enough science to support its use as a nootropic. It’s not even a successful drug.

      Noel
      March 20, 2021

      Hi David. Are you still a big fan of taking aniracetam (with choline source), sulbutiamin, and rhodiola every day for long periods of time ? I happen to like all 3 but just wondering if effective stacked together as part of a daily routine? Thank you.

        David Tomen
        March 21, 2021

        Noel, I’m still using Aniracetam and Sulbutiamine twice a day. The only Rhodiola Rosea I use is 50 mg in Mind Lab Pro.

      Noel
      October 26, 2021

      Hi David. What are your thoughts on Pyscillobin as a mood and cognitive enhancer? Thank you.

        David Tomen
        October 26, 2021

        Noel, I’ve heard that micro-dosing Psilocybin can be effective but I have not tried it and have not done the research.

        David Tomen
        November 18, 2021

        Done

Mia
November 13, 2020

Hello David,

excellent site, gives me a lot of hope …

I’ve had depression for years. I’ve tried a lot of drugs and none of them really help …

I am currently taking prescribed Tianeptine sodium tablets 12,5 mg, 3 x 1, which only slightly help me not feel so bad. However, I still have no motivation. I’ve also added Ashwaganda to my regimen to help me fall asleep easier, but I have trouble waking up even after a 12-hour sleep.

I was thinking of starting Aniracetam. Is it safe to combine Tianeptine and Aniracetam together? I can‘t seem to find good info on that.

Maybe you can recommend me something else?

Thank you!

Kind regards

Mia

    David Tomen
    November 14, 2020

    Mia, take a look at how tianeptine works here:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tianeptine#Pharmacology. It affects opioid receptors, inhibits glutamate receptors, increases BDNF to improve neuroplasticity, enhances serotonin receptor response, enhances dopamine D2 & D3 receptors, and affects gene expression.

    It would take 5 or 6 individual nootropic supplements to try and mimic how Tianeptine works. If you have no negative effects from this drug I’d continue using it if it works for you. Because the alternative it a little complicated.

    Ashwagandha may be the wrong supplement for you. I can’t use it because it affects thyroid hormones and I am hypothyroid.

    I’m hesitant to recommend ANYTHING to you because of how Tianeptine works. And I cannot find a list of contraindicated drugs either because it goes by several different names around the world.

    Aniracetam also affects Dopamine D2 & D3 receptors which is a good thing. Unless you are using Tianeptine which does the same thing. I have no idea what would happen if you tried combining the two but it’s likely best not to find out.

    Saffron (https://nootropicsexpert.com/saffron/) may be an option for you because it’s effective for depression and is not contraindicated with anything as far as I know.

    Alternatives for sleep can be found here: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-sleep-supplements-to-buy/

Leyla Hinson
October 30, 2020

Can you recommend a nootropic for withdrawing from TCA type antidepressants? I am currently experience withdrawal symptoms as I’m slowly weaning off clomipramine.

    David Tomen
    October 31, 2020

    Leyla, there is no nootropic to help reduce the withdrawal symptoms from antidepressants. Yes for opiates. But not for antidepressants.

    And it’s because of at last two things; anything that works like a prescription antidepressant is contraindicated because it could cause Serotonin Syndrome or a heart attack. And because of the way antidepressants destroy your brain. Including messing with things like ion channels and gene expression. The only things that will repair that type of damage if it’s even possible is time.

      Leyla Hinson
      November 25, 2020

      Thank you for your reply, one month later I just saw it as I am still researching for some type of relief. As the TCA is still apparently in my system, is it best to avoid all nootropics at this point? Is there no hope for any type of repair?

        Leyla Hinson
        November 25, 2020

        Also, is it possible that the use of Alpha GPC is exasperating symptoms as TCA type antidepressants are well known anticholinergics?

        David Tomen
        November 25, 2020

        Leyla, this is my response to you in the Alpha GPC thread,

        “Leyla, based on that quote you shouldn’t be using Alpha GPC. Because that quote is saying you are already dealing with excess choline activity due to withdrawal from the drug.

        Where did you find that quote? I’d like to read the entire study. Because a lot of people come here looking for answers on avoiding the severe side effects of antidepressant discontinuation withdrawal symptoms. And so far, I haven’t found an answer.”

      Philip F
      January 19, 2021

      What I found worked for me when withdrawing from a SNRI was SAMe. Not sure if it would work for anyone else but it did work for me.

        David Tomen
        January 22, 2021

        That is good to know Philip. Thanks for sharing.

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